Shymbulak, Almaty / 2025

Shymbulak in Summer 🌞 is a completely different experience from its snowy winter charm. The slopes turn into green meadows 🌿 dotted with wildflowers, and the mountain air is fresh and cool compared to hot Almaty below. Instead of skiers, you’ll see hikers, bikers 🚵, and families enjoying picnics with panoramic views of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains 🏔️. The gondola ride 🚡 is still the highlight, lifting you above forests and cliffs to fresh alpine heights. At the top, trails lead to glaciers, mountain ridges, and hidden valleys, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.

🚇 How to get there

From Almaty city center, first head to Medeu 🚌.

By bus 12 🚌: From Dostyk Avenue to Medeu, then take the gondola 🚡 up to Shymbulak (20 minutes).

By taxi 🚖 / Yandex Go: Around 2,500–3,000 KZT (~€5–6) to Medeu.

Some tour companies 🚐 also run direct summer day trips that include Shymbulak and Big Almaty Lake.

💰 How much does it cost

Gondola 🚡: Around 3,500–5,000 KZT (~€7–10) round trip.

Hiking 🚶: Free once you’re up in the mountains.

Food & drinks ☕: 2,000–4,000 KZT (~€4–8).

In summer, Shymbulak becomes a mountain retreat full of sunshine and fresh air 🌞—the perfect escape from Almaty’s heat.

For more pictures, check #findheikki on Instagram

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