Mels-Ashuu Pass: Scenic Route in Naryn Region

The Mels-Ashuu Pass is a captivating mountain passage nestled within the Naryn region, near the village of Baetovo. Standing at an elevation of 3420 meters, the pass derives its name from the initials of prominent figures K. Marx, F. Engels, V. Lenin, and I. Stalin—forming the acronym MELS. During the early decades of Soviet governance, naming conventions often employed these initials, resulting in the name Mels-Ashuu—a title that has transcended being just a pass to become a popular male name.

Ascending the Mels-Ashuu Pass frequently features in tour itineraries, as the panorama from its summit rivals the renowned view from the Moldo-Ashuu pass. The journey to the pass unveils a diverse landscape, transitioning from rolling hills to striking red clay canyons. A bird's-eye view from the pass's pinnacle offers a sweeping perspective of the entire valley.