Altyn-Arashan - Ala-kul tour
THE MAIN THINGS ABOUT THE HIKE
Altyn-Arashan - Ala-kul tour
This 4-day trekking adventure takes you through some of the most scenic mountain landscapes of eastern Kyrgyzstan, combining alpine lakes, high mountain passes, deep gorges, and natural hot springs. Starting and ending in Karakol, the route leads through Karakol Gorge to the famous Ala-Kul Lake, crosses a high-altitude mountain pass, and finishes in the green valley of Altyn-Arashan. The trek is designed for active travelers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Tien Shan Mountains, enjoy several days of hiking in remote nature, and recover in hot mineral springs after challenging mountain days. This journey offers a balanced mix of physical activity, dramatic scenery, and authentic mountain atmosphere, making it one of the classic trekking routes in the Issyk-Kul region.
Bishkek , Kockkor , Bishkek
Itinerary
Day 1. Karakol – Karakol Gorge – Sirota Camp
🚗Drive: ~14 km
The tour begins in the city of Karakol with a transfer to Karakol Gorge, where the trekking part starts. The trail follows a mountain river through Tien Shan spruce forests and alpine meadows, with a gradual altitude gain that makes the first day comfortable for acclimatization. Along the way, scenic views of rocky cliffs and waterfalls open up, and by evening the group reaches Sirot
🏠Accommodation: tent camp at Sirota Camp
Day 2. Sirota Camp – Ala-Kul Lake – Keldike Camp
🚗Drive: ~12–14 km
An early start allows the group to pass the most intense and spectacular part of the route. The ascent leads to the high-altitude Ala-Kul Lake, located at approximately 3,530 meters above sea level, famous for its deep turquoise color that changes with the weather. After a rest and photo break, the route continues over Ala-Kul Pass (around 3,900 m), offering panoramic views of glaciers and mountain ridges, followed by a long descent into the Keldike Gorge to the next campsite.
🏠Accommodation: tent camp at Keldike Camp
Day 3. Keldike Camp – Altyn-Arashan Gorge
🚗Drive: ~9–11 km
The route descends through the Keldike Gorge, passing coniferous forests and mountain rivers, gradually leading into one of the most picturesque valleys in the region — Altyn-Arashan. Upon arrival, the group stays in a guesthouse or yurt, with time to relax and recover in the natural hot springs, which are especially appreciated after several days of trekking.
🏠Accommodation: guesthouse or yurt in Altyn-Arashan
Day 4. Altyn-Arashan Gorge – Karakol
🚗Drive: vehicle transfer
After breakfast, there is free time for walks around the valley and optional visits to the hot springs. Later, the group is transferred by 4WD vehicle back to the city of Karakol, where the tour comes to an end.
🏠Accommodation: Guest House
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