Kurdzhilak (2,469 m), officially renamed Strazhnik in 1989, is a peak in the Kovach section of Rila. The old name comes from the Turkish word for a forest guard, and locals still use it. Its neighbours are Kovach to the north and Lopatishki peak; Kurdzhilak, Lopatishki and Sredniya are together called the Belishki vapi. The lakeless Grohod cirque lies to the south.
It is climbed from the Nehtenitsa area. Walk the dirt road towards Suhoto lake; after about 15 minutes, at a spot known as TMS-to, turn west along the Malka banenska river. The path runs between dwarf pines on the left bank of the river.
Blagoevgrad region
1.9 km away
Sofia region
1.9 km away
Blagoevgrad region
3.0 km away
Kurdzhilak is located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.
Kurdzhilak is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is best for Kurdzhilak, when trails are clear of snow and weather is most stable. Higher peaks may hold snow into June and see fresh snow as early as October. Winter visits are for experienced mountaineers with proper gear.
Kurdzhilak reaches an elevation of 2,469 metres above sea level.
Hiking boots, layered clothing, water (1.5–2 L per person), sun protection, and a windproof jacket — mountain weather changes quickly. For longer routes also bring a map (paper or offline), a head torch, and emergency rations. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
