Trekking to the Heart of Tien Shan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan
Our Route: Airport Manas – Karakol Town – Sirota Yurt Camp – Ala Kol Lake – Keldike Valley – Altyn Arashan Hot Springs – Almaluu Valley – Boz Uchuk Lakes – Ak Suu Turgen Valley – Jyrgalan Valley – Karakol Town
Highlights and Overview of this Trip
Introduction:
Embarking on a journey to Kyrgyzstan is like stepping into a world of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural wonders. From the vibrant capital city of Bishkek to the serene valleys and majestic lakes, this trip offers a remarkable adventure. In this post, we will take you on a virtual tour, highlighting the must-visit destinations, including Burana Tower, Karakol Valley, Ala Kol Lake, Altyn Arashan, Boz Uchuk Lakes, and Jyrgalan Valley. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Bishkek: A Vibrant Capital City
Our journey begins in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the bustling Osh Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and sample delicious traditional cuisine.
Don’t forget to visit Ala-Too Square, the heart of the city, where you can witness the changing of the guards and admire the stunning monuments.
Burana Tower: A Glimpse into the Past
Located in the Chuy Valley, the historic Burana Tower stands as a testament to Kyrgyzstan’s rich history. Dating back to the 11th century, this ancient minaret offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Explore the nearby open-air museum, where you can find stone carvings, petroglyphs, and remnants of the Silk Road
Karakol Valley: Nature’s Paradise
Next, we venture into the enchanting Karakol Valley, nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains. This picturesque valley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through lush forests, witness cascading waterfalls, and marvel at the snow-capped peaks. Don’t miss the famous Jeti-Oguz, known as the “Seven Bulls,” a series of red rock formations that dominate the landscape.
Ala Kol Lake: A Trekker’s Delight
For the adventurous souls, a trek to Ala Kol Lake is an absolute must. Situated at an altitude of 3,560 meters, this stunning alpine lake rewards trekkers with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering peaks. The challenging hike is worth every step, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature in its purest form
Altyn Arashan: Hot Springs and Serenity
Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation at Altyn Arashan, a natural hot spring resort nestled in the mountains. Immerse yourself in the warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery. This idyllic retreat provides a perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the tranquil ambiance
Boz Uchuk Lakes: Nature’s Masterpiece
Prepare to be awe-inspired by the beauty of Boz Uchuk Lakes. Located in the Suusamyr Valley, these interconnected lakes boast stunning turquoise waters, encircled by towering mountains. Capture the breathtaking scenery, hike along the shores, or simply sit back and enjoy the tranquility of this hidden gem
Jyrgalan Valley: Off the Beaten Path
Our journey concludes in the remote Jyrgalan Valley, a hidden paradise for nature lovers. This untouched wilderness offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching. Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying in a traditional yurt and savoring delicious Kyrgyz cuisine
DESCRIPTION FOR TREKKING PROGRAM:
Experience the magic of a trekking tour in the Terskei Ala Too mountain range, where breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures await. This journey promises unforgettable memories and a rush of emotions that will stay with you forever. Imagine spending nights in cozy tents beneath a starry sky, gathering around a crackling campfire after a day of exploration, and being captivated by the hidden corners and unique natural wonders that surround you.
Prepare to feast your eyes on the mesmerizing beauty of Ala-Kol Lake, with its enchanting turquoise waters that will leave you spellbound. This stunning sight is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. And as the trekking adventure draws to a close, indulge in the ultimate relaxation by bathing in the soothing hot springs of Altyn-Arashan Gorge.
Embark on a journey to the mountainous paradise of Kyrgyzstan, where legends come to life and nature reveals its unparalleled splendor. This is a land that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Come and discover the wonders that await you in the Land of Kyrgyzstan!
- Total Km of Trekking: 90km
- Elevation Min/Max: 1700m/3860m
- Start Point: Karakol National Park
- End Point: Jyrgalan Village
- Trip season: June -September
- Duration: 9 Days
- Type: Trekking
- Difficulty: Medium, Hard
- Accommodation: Guest House, Yurt Inn, Tents.
- Meals: Full board – breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners.
- Route: Airport Manas – Karakol Town – Sirota Yurt Camp – Ala Kol Lake – Keldike Valley – Altyn Arashan Hot Springs – Almaluu Valley – Boz Uchuk Lakes – Ak Suu Turgen Valley – Jyrgalan Valley – Karakol Town
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Tien Shan Mountains
- Hot Springs
- Ala Kol Mountain Lake
- Horse riding
- High passes, panoramic views
- Boz Uchuk Lake
PROGRAM:
DAY 1: Airport Manas – Karakol Town
Distance: 400km
Driving: 6-7 hoursUpon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted by an English-speaking guide who will be accompanying the group throughout the tour. Comfortable transportation will be provided, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey to Karakol Town.
En route, you will have the opportunity to visit the historic Burana Tower, which served as a significant center along the Great Silk Route in ancient times. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
Afterward, a delightful lunch break waits at a charming café, allowing you to savor the local flavors and recharge for the rest of the journey. As we continue our drive along the picturesque northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, you will be treated to breathtaking views of this magnificent body of water.
Finally, we arrive in Karakol, where a warm welcome dinner awaits you at a local restaurant. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse you in the local cuisine and experience the hospitality of the region. Following the dinner, you will spend a comfortable night at a local hotel, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating stay.
Meals included:
Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2: Karakol – National Park – Sirota Camp Site
Distance: 12 km
Elevation: +1000m
Trekking: 5-6 hours After breakfast, you will drive to the beginning of Karakol Gorge. Your hiking journey starts from the bridge, where the trail begins to climb gently along the western bank of the Karakol River. You will hike through a variety of landscapes, including forest cover, open pastures, and areas affected by landslides. The trail follows peaceful stretches of the river, where you might encounter horses grazing during the summer months.
More than half of the ascent remains within the tree cover, with the trail zigzagging up a lush green hillside. Eventually, you will emerge into a more open plain for the final kilometer to reach Sirota Hut. Along the way, you will start to witness the rugged terrain leading up to the lake, characterized by sharp peaks and tumbledown rock piles. Just before the path becomes more challenging in the rocky section, you will arrive at Syrota Camp site, your Yurt Camp for the night.
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 3: Sirota Camp Site – Keldike Valley
Distance: 9km
Elevation: +1200m
Trekking: 6-7 hoursAfter a hearty breakfast, we will begin our ascent to Ala-Kol Lake (3500m), a breathtaking natural wonder nestled amidst the majestic Terskey Ala Too Mountains. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of this hidden gem, as it is formed by a natural rock dam. As we make our way, we will enjoy a delicious lunch along the route. The adventure continues as we trek to Keldike Valley situated at an elevation of 3400m, we will take Ala Kol Pass 3860m (this our highest point on this trek). Here, we will set up our tents for the night and indulge in a well-deserved dinner under the starry sky.
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 4: Keldike Valley – Altyn Arashan Hot Springs
Distance: 11 km
Elevation: +1100m
Trekking: 3-4 hours
After a satisfying breakfast, our trekking adventure continues towards our next destination: Altyn-Arashan valley. Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of this picturesque valley, which attracts a multitude of tourists. One of the highlights of Altyn-Arashan is its renowned hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties. You will have the opportunity to indulge in a rejuvenating bath in the radon water pool, surrounded by the stunning natural scenery.
Today, our focus shifts to the next phase of our trekking journey as we meet with our trusty horses and experienced horse guide. This meeting will serve as an opportunity to prepare ourselves and receive a detailed briefing for the upcoming adventure to Jyrgalan. The horses will play a vital role in assisting us throughout the trek, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Our horse guide will provide valuable insights, tips, and guidance to ensure our safety and comfort during the journey. Get ready to embark on the second part of our trek with renewed energy and excitement.
For lunch and dinner, we will enjoy delicious meals and spend the night in traditional yurts, immersing ourselves in the authentic nomadic experience.
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 5: Altyn Arashan – Almaluu Valley
Distance: 13km
Elevation: +1000m
Trekking: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we will embark on an easy hiking adventure in the valley. As you explore, you’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photos of horses, goats, and shepherds in their natural habitat. In the middle of the day, we will begin our ascent to Ortok Pass, reaching an elevation of 3780 meters. From there, we will descend to the picturesque Ak-Suu – Almallu River, where we will spend the night in tents.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 6: Almaluu Valley – Jergez Valley
Distance: 13km
Elevation: +1000m
Trekking: 5-6 hours
Starting your day with a hearty breakfast, you will venture into the rugged and picturesque Almaluu valley, characterized by its rocky terrain and abundant bushes. Your journey will take you up to the majestic Ailanysh Pass. As you conquer the pass, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Descending from the pass, you will find yourself in the enchanting Jergez valley, situated at an altitude of 2400 meters. Camp overnight in tents under the starry sky, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 7: Jergez Valley – Boz Uchuk Lakes
Distance: 9,5km
Elevation: +950m
Trekking: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we will pack up and begin our ascent to the Pass. Crossing a 3524m pass, you will reach the breathtaking Boz Uchuk lakes, nestled amidst rocky terrain and rolling hills. The road may be steep in parts, but the descent down the valley is mostly gentle, offering stunning views of the Boz-Uchuk area throughout the journey. The view from the pass itself is truly spectacular. Since today’s distance is not too long, it presents a great opportunity to explore the Boz-Uchuk Lakes on an excursion. We will spend the night in tents, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 8: Boz Uchuk Lakes – Turgen Ak Suu Valley
Distance: 9,5km
Elevation: +800m
Trekking: 5-6 hours
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our ascent up the Boz-Uchuk Ashuu Pass (3363m). Unlike the challenging first part of the day, this section is much more gradual, allowing us to gain approximately 700 vertical meters over a distance of four kilometers. The terrain stretches out laterally, providing a comfortable hiking experience.
Once we reach the top of the pass, we will continue our journey by descending into the picturesque Turgon Ak-Suu Valley. As we make our way towards Enilchek, we will stay close to the Turgon Ak-Suu River, which flows through one of the most stunning valleys in the Terskei Ala Too Mountains. This valley is adorned with lush green pastures and majestic fir trees, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
For our overnight stay, we will set up our tents amidst the natural beauty of this valley, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box, Dinner
DAY 9: Turgen Ak Suu – Jyrgalan Valley – Karakol Town
Distance: 15km
Elevation: +950m
Trekking: 5-6 hours
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will embark on a thrilling hike up to the majestic Terim Tor pass, which stands at an impressive elevation of 3467m. As we reach the summit, we will be rewarded with breathtaking mountain vistas and the opportunity to admire the serene beauty of the small mountain lakes in the vicinity.
Our journey will then continue along the picturesque valley, where we will encounter occasional seasonal ponds and numerous herds of free-range horses. These magnificent creatures roam freely and are often accompanied by shepherds who reside in the Eki-Chat area or higher up in the valley.
Upon reaching our final trekking point, we will rendezvous with a Russian truck that will transport us to the charming town of Karakol. Once we arrive, we will check in at a comfortable guest house and enjoy a delightful farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Finally, we will retire for the night at a cozy guest house, ready to cherish the memories of our adventurous day
Meals included:
Breakfast, Lunch box
Notes
Equipment and items for the trekking:
- Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -5°C.
- Sturdy trekking boots with proper ankle support and a reliable tread. It’s also advisable to carry an extra pair of shoes or sandals in case your main footwear gets wet during rain or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Waterproof rain jacket and trousers to protect you from rain and wet conditions.
- Warm clothing and extra layers for changing weather conditions.
- Hat and cap to shield yourself from the sun, along with sunglasses and high-factor sun cream to protect your skin.
- A daypack with a capacity of 40-50 liters and a rain cover to keep your belongings dry. It’s also a good idea to line your daypack with a quality plastic bag for added protection.
- Head-torch for navigating in low-light conditions or during nighttime.
- Water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Quick-drying towel for personal hygiene and drying off.
- A first aid kit, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or require specific medication.
These essential items will ensure your comfort, safety, and preparedness during the trekking adventure.
Physical requirements:
Participants must be in good physical condition, but don’t need any special skills of horse riding. The differences of heights range from 600 m to 850 m in vertical elevation. The maximum elevation is 3 860 m.
Personnel
At AdventuresKG, we prioritize safety and ensure that our customers are accompanied by experienced mountain guides. Our guides are highly knowledgeable in trekking and mountain safety, guaranteeing a secure and enjoyable journey.
To ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience for our customers, we offer the convenience of horses during the trek. For every two people, we provide one horse along with a skilled horseman. These horses will be responsible for transporting all the necessary food and camping equipment throughout the entire trek. This arrangement allows our customers to enjoy the journey without the burden of carrying heavy loads, giving them more freedom to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
As a customer, you will only need to carry a small backpack containing essentials such as water, snacks, and a few items of clothing.
To cater to your culinary needs, we have professional mountain cooks on board. Our cooks are skilled in preparing fresh and nutritious meals throughout the trek. If you have any dietary preferences or allergies, please inform us in advance. For groups larger than 7 people, we provide a mountain cook assistant to ensure efficient meal preparation
Price list
- Group of 2 people – 1200$ / per person
- Group of 4 people – 800$ / per person
- Group of 6 people – 740$ / per person
- Group of 8 people – 660$ / per person
Price includes:
- All transfers into the start point at the beginning and end of the trekking
- National parks, hot spring and camp sites fees
- Local Guide (English speaking)
- Cook, gas canisters and cooking set.
- Horse for luggage and equipment’s
- Lodging in the tents with all meal and at the trekking time (twin sharing)
- Lodging in Yurt Camps
- Food ( full catering )
Not included:
- Kyrgyz visa (if needed)
- International flights to and from Bishkek
- Medical/evacuation insurance
- Soft & alcohol drinks
