Ala Kul Lake Trek

No words to explain feeling…Get this memorable trekking experience with magnificent scenery of alpine lake Ala Kul one of the most picturesque lakes of Central Asia. Enjoy the panoramic views of craggy peaks of Tian Shan Mountains.

Trekking distance/time: 10km / 5-6 hours (radial hike)
Ascent: 440 meters    

After breakfast, transfer from Karakol city to the Karakol Gorge (1-1,5 hours drive). The road follows the winding valley surrounded by lush forests and a fast-flowing mountain river. Upon arrival at the campsite (2,550 meters), take a short rest before starting your hike.

Begin your radial hike toward the foot of the impressive Karakol Peak, one of the most iconic mountains in the Terskey Ala-Too Range. The trail passes through alpine meadows and spruce forests, gradually ascending with stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Enjoy your lunch overlooking the magnificent Karakol Peak before returning to the campsite.

Spend the evening relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of the gorge, listening to the sound of the river, and enjoying dinner under the starry sky. Overnight in tents surrounded by spruce trees.

Accommodation: tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets

This day challenges you with strenuous walking through screws and boulders before you get to the lake, 3 hours. After a few hours of demanding ascent, be rewarded with the jewel of Ala Kul Lake, standing at 3500 meters and fed by glaciers around. The view of this turquoise alpine lake takes your breath away. Arrival at the campsite. Be accommodated in tents. Free stroll around the lake. Dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets

Trekking distance/time: 13 km, 6-7 hours
Ascent: – 340m,  Descent: – 1400m

After breakfast, we head on to Ala Kul Pass, standing at 3950 meters. Craggy and glaciated peaks of Terskey Ala-Too open on top of the pass. Give a time to gaze at these towering peaks of the great Tian Shan Range. Descend the steep path towards the campsite at beautiful Keldyke Valley at (3200m). Have some lunch. Then we head on to our yurt camp along lush green pastures with gently flowing rivers of Altyn Arashan Valley, 3-4 hours. At some point, you will cross one of the streams, but the level is low. Arrival at our yurt camp, standing at 2450 meters. In fact, Altyn-Arashan means ‘Golden Spa’ and this valley is famous for its hot sulfur springs. We take a bath in hot spring pools after three long days of hiking to relieve muscle pains.

Accommodation: shared yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), hot shower, hot spring pools, and western-style toilets

Trekking distance/time: 15 km, 4-5 hours
Descent: – 850m

After breakfast, begin your final day’s hike through the scenic Altyn Arashan Valley. The trail follows the river downstream, passing through pine forests, open meadows, and clusters of traditional wooden cabins used by local shepherds in summer. Enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature as you walk along the gently descending path, with the sound of rushing water and birds echoing through the valley.
Take short breaks to admire the panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, including the striking Palatka (Tent) Peak, before arriving in Ak-Suu village (1,700 m) around midday. Here, your vehicle will be waiting for you.
Drive to Karakol City and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the cozy local cafés or restaurants. Accommodation at your hotel.