Orta chal (2,434 m) is a peak in Eastern Rila in the Belmeken area, about 1.5 km southeast of Kameniti chal and 2 km west of Sofan peak. Ibar peak is about 3.4 km to the northwest and Ravni chal about 3.6 km to the north; the Belmeken reservoir and hut Belmeken lie to the northeast.
The peak is part of a described round trip from Belmeken over Kameniti chal and Orta chal: about 12.8 km, 4 h 45 min and roughly 670 m of ascent. The route is graded difficult (T3).
Blagoevgrad region
1.5 km away
Sofia region
3.4 km away
Sofia region
3.6 km away
Orta chal is located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.
Orta chal 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 Orta chal, 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.
Orta chal reaches an elevation of 2,434 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.
