Medeu Skating Rink & Shymbulak
About
Medeu is the world’s highest mountain skating rink and one of the most iconic places to visit in Almaty. Built in 1972 at 1,691 metres above sea level in a dramatic glacial valley 15 km south of the city, it is surrounded by peaks rising above 4,000 metres. The 10,500 square metre rink hosted the 1972 and 1974 World Speed Skating Championships, where Soviet athletes set 126 world records aided by thin mountain air. A highlight of Almaty tourism, Medeu is often featured in every Almaty travel guide as a gateway to Shymbulak, Central Asia’s leading ski resort. A 4.5 km cable car climbs 1,500 metres higher to reach its 25 km of pistes, operating from December to April, with summer access for hiking and panoramic views. The best time to visit Almaty for skiing is winter, while warmer months suit outdoor exploration.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Top Cable Car Station
The third cable car station at Talgar Pass stands at 3,200 metres and offers sweeping views across the Tien Shan range into both Kazakhstan and neighbouring Kyrgyzstan. Even non skiers visit Almaty for this spectacular panorama.
Medeu Dam Walk
Above the rink rises a 150 metre high earth dam completed in 1966 to shield the city from glacial mudflows. Climb the long staircase to the top for expansive valley views before returning to central Almaty hotels after one of the most memorable things to do in Almaty.
Things to Know
- •Medeu rink entry 1,500 KZT (skate rental 2,000 KZT)
- •Medeu-Shymbulak cable car 6,500 KZT round trip
- •Open 9 AM to 7 PM (winter to 9 PM with night ski)
- •Weather changes fast — check before going up
- •Dress for 5-10°C cooler than Almaty year-round
