2025 Ak-Su Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Probably the most famous lake and hike in all of Kyrgyzstan. To get here, it sure can be tough, but well worth it in the end. 🏠 Where to stay? Karakol is the second biggest city in Kyrgyzstan, and is the best base of the Ala Kul Hike. 🥾 The Hike It can easily be done in 3 days Day 1: Karakol National Park to Sirota Camp Distance: 14km with 905m elevation gain Difficulty: Easy to moderate. To get to the starting point, you can either get a Matshruka (which will drop you off 2 hour walk away from the “broken bridge”) or organise a taxi (2000soms) to take you all the way to the broken bridge. Walking along Karakol Valley is so beautiful, straight out of the stock photos! The last hour is probably the toughest, where the majority of elevation gain is here. Day 2: Sirota Camp to Atlyn Arshan Distance: 19km with 1125m elevation gain Difficulty: Hard to moderate hard. Start your day early after eating breakfast for the initial 3km incline to the Lake. You will be walking along the waterfall so you can fill up your waterbottle along the way. Once you reach the lake and for a few photo ops, continue along the side of the mountain until Ala Kul pass. This is the highest point of elevation you will reach at 3920m. Oxygen does definitely get a bit thin up there. Once you pass the Ala Kul pass, that is where the real fun begins. 1000m descend over 1km, very very steep slope to come down. We recommend hiking poles! And taking it slow after the steep slope, it is quite a nice but very long walk down the Atlyn Arshan river valley to Atlyn Arshan. Day 3: Atlyn Arshan to Ak Suy Distance: 19km with 182m incline Difficulty: easy to moderate After 2 days of hiking and the the beautiful sights already seen, day 3 was a bit of a drag. Although the sites were just as beautiful, it was a long slow 19km down to the bus stop. 🏕️ Tent or Yurt Camp? There was a lot of people that did both. But due to the steep incline and decline and elevation, why not just go as light as possible! 🦮 Do I need a guide? No! This is one of the most popular hikes in Kyrgyzstan , and you’ll definitely see people along the way. Download offline maps.me and follow the trail. Although it is not exactly “marked” the path will take you to the right place. 🏕️ Sirota Camp Camp at 3300m, was more on the expensive side. I would advise you to book in town at one of the tour agencies. Different tour agencies will have connections of the different tents - all 4000 soms pp. Will be shared yurts and sleeping on the floor - but enough bedding to keep you warm. Includes simple breakfast and dinner. But you’ll definitely make a few friends at the campfire. 🏕️ Atlyn Arashan There are a few yurt camps around the area, so. I would say no need to prebook. We rocked up and got a private room for 1800 soms pp + 700 soms for dinner. Included breakfast and natural hot spring. #kyrgyzstan #karakol #AlaKulLake #AlaKul #travelguide #traveldiaries

📅 Travel Plan Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: 🏨 Recommended Accommodation 🍴 Recommended Restaurants 📌 Tips Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek * Arrive at Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek. * Transfer from the airport to your accommodation in the city. * Rest and explore the nearby area. * Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Bishkek. Day 2: Explore Bishkek * Morning: Visit Ala-Too Square (the city's main square), Oak Park, and the Manas Monument. * Afternoon: Tour the State Historical Museum to learn about Kyrgyzstan's history and culture. * Evening: Stroll through Osh Bazaar to experience the local market atmosphere and shop for souvenirs. Day 3: Ala Archa National Park (Morning) and Travel to Karakol (Afternoon) * Morning: Head to Ala Archa National Park (about 40 km south of Bishkek) for a short hike and enjoy stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. * Afternoon: Travel to Karakol (approximately 6-7 hours by car), the main town near Issyk-Kul Lake. * Check into your accommodation in Karakol. * Have dinner. Day 4: Explore Karakol and Jeti-Oguz Gorge * Morning: Visit Karakol Dungan Mosque (Chinese-style mosque) and Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral. * Afternoon: Travel to Jeti-Oguz Gorge (about 25 km southwest of Karakol) to see the red sandstone "Broken Heart" rock formation and enjoy a walk in the valley. * Consider staying overnight at a Yurt Camp in Jeti-Oguz for a closer experience with nature. Day 5: Altyn Arashan Trek (For Hikers) or Skazka Canyon * Option A (For Hikers): * Travel to Altyn Arashan (requires a 4WD vehicle) and hike to the natural hot springs. Enjoy soaking in the springs and the beautiful scenery. * Consider staying overnight at a Yurt Camp or guesthouse in Altyn Arashan. * Option B (For Relaxation): * Visit Skazka Canyon (Fairy Tale Canyon) near Issyk-Kul Lake to admire the unique sandstone formations shaped by natural erosion. * Spend time relaxing by Issyk-Kul Lake. Day 6: Travel to Kochkor and Son Kul Lake * Morning: Depart from Karakol to Kochkor (about 3-4 hours). Stop by a felt carpet factory (Shyrdak) to learn about carpet-making. * Afternoon: Travel from Kochkor to Son Kul Lake (about 3-4 hours), a stunning high-altitude mountain lake. * Stay overnight at a Yurt Camp by Son Kul Lake, experience nomadic life, and enjoy stargazing at night. Day 7: Son Kul Lake and Travel to Naryn * Morning: Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Son Kul Lake. Consider horseback riding or walking along the lake. * Afternoon: Travel from Son Kul Lake to Naryn (about 2-3 hours), a key town in central Kyrgyzstan. * Check into your accommodation in Naryn and explore this small town. Day 8: Tash Rabat Caravanserai and Travel to Kazarman * Morning: Visit Tash Rabat Caravanserai (about 1.5-2 hours from Naryn), a 15th-century stone caravanserai that served as a resting point for Silk Road caravans. * Afternoon: Travel to Kazarman (the route may be rugged, taking about 4-5 hours), a small town in the valley. * Stay overnight at a guesthouse in Kazarman. Day 9: Return to Bishkek via Too Ashuu Pass * Morning: Depart from Kazarman to Bishkek (a long journey of about 7-8 hours). * En route, pass through Too Ashuu Pass, one of Kyrgyzstan's most scenic routes, featuring stunning mountain views and sharp curves. * Stop for photos at viewpoints along the way. * Check into your accommodation in Bishkek and enjoy a farewell dinner. Day 10: Departure * Free time for souvenir shopping or visiting any missed attractions. * Transfer to Manas International Airport (FRU) for your departure.

#cityplaybook Tucked in the Terskey Alatau mountains near Lake Issyk-Kul, Karakol Ski Base is Central Asia’s best-kept winter secret. Think powdery alpine slopes, crisp mountain air, and far fewer crowds than the Alps — all wrapped in a rugged Kyrgyz charm that’s both raw and refreshing. I arrived in Karakol expecting modest slopes, but what I found was a snow-lover’s paradise. The base sits at 2,300 meters, with lifts rising up to 3,040 meters, offering deep powder runs, tree skiing, and wide, open trails that cater to all levels. The best part? No lift lines. Just clean runs, friendly locals, and epic views over the lake shimmering in the distance. Off the slopes, I explored yurt cafés, warming up with laghman and hot tea beside a crackling fire. The Soviet-era charm of the base adds a unique vibe — rustic, yes, but absolutely authentic. At night, the stars blaze above untouched snowfields, and the silence feels almost sacred. For thrill-seekers, freeride and backcountry tours are a must — with local guides taking you through pristine powder bowls and pine-covered ridges that few outsiders have ever seen. Best time to visit: December to early March for consistent snow and cold, bluebird skies. Getting there: into Bishkek or Osh, then a 6-hour drive through breathtaking mountain passes to Karakol. Tip: Rent gear locally, and try a local banya (steam bath) after skiing — it's pure magic for tired legs. #KarakolSkiBase #SkiKyrgyzstan #HiddenAlps #CentralAsiaAdventure #PowderDreams #SkiSilkRoad #KarakolMountains #WinterEscape #OffTheBeatenSlope #SnowyKyrgyzstan #SkiWild #UntouchedTrails

I had the opportunity to travel to Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, from May 3-10. The atmosphere was complete with sun, snow, wind, and rain. But when I saw the view in front of me, I can say that I was not afraid of anything. Every angle was beautiful. No matter where I looked, it was beautiful. Although the journey might be difficult, once you get there, it was definitely worth the trip. The places I liked and recommend are: Barskoons Valley🏔️ Altyn arashan🏞️ Kaindy lake Kolsai lake Sleep in a yurt camp🛖 * I recommend finding a local guide instead of driving yourself. People there don't speak English very well, and the roads are rough. It would be better to have an expert guide. #VisitKyrgyzstan #VisitKazakhstan

Recently, I feel like Central Asia has become more widely known among travelers. The five Central Asian countries have an image of being unknown countries, but in reality, they have the perfect conditions for traveling, with rich nature, kind people, and being easy on the wallet. It is no exaggeration to say that Kyrgyzstan has the most attractive nature of the five countries. The journey to Altyn Arashan is easy. It took about four hours to arrive by solo trekking. At the time (October 2023), I was able to stay at the inn without a reservation, but it was not the season for gers. It was extremely cold at night and I couldn't even observe the stars. I would like to try again in the summer.

#AprilTravelSupport If you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan, Altyn Arashan is a must-visit! Be sure to try horseback riding in Altyn Arashan 😆 I told my accommodations to do it, and I used it for about 7,000 won for 30 minutes ✔️ I was so excited to ride a horse in the wide grassland, but it was even better when I rode it 💕 The scenery was beautiful, so it was an even happier memory ㅎㅎ 📍"Eco Yurt Camp Arashan" in Altyn Arashan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Kyrgyzstan #Karakol #Altyn Arashan #HorsebackRidingExperience #OverseasTravel

#AprilTravelSupport If you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan, I highly recommend you visit Altynarasan 💚 This place, called the Switzerland of Central Asia, is a place where you can really heal because the scenery is so pretty and wonderful. Altynarasan is also famous for its beauty in the Tian Shan Mountains, which spans 5 countries including Kyrgyzstan. ✨ Since there are various courses to climb, you can climb properly or take a mountain vehicle to go up, so I think you can decide according to the situation and your physical strength. ㅎㅎ 📍Altynarasan, Kyrgyzstan #Altynarasan #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Karakol #CentralAsiaTravel #OverseasTravel

#AprilTravelSupport If you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan, Make sure to see the sky full of stars 💛 You can see a landscape that looks like a dream ㅎㅎ I saw a lot of stars in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan When all the lights in the buildings were turned off, I looked up at the sky and it really looked like stars were pouring down!! Make sure to take some pretty pictures 👍🏻 📍отель Каприз, Горнолыжная база Каракол, Karakol, Kyrgyzstan #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Karakol #KarakolAccommodation

#AprilTravelSupport If you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan, you must visit Altyn Arashan💚 I recommend you to stay at a yurt in Altyn Arashan for one night ㅎㅎ We stayed at <"Eco Yurt Camp Arashan" in Altyn Arashan> for one night, and the surrounding scenery was so beautiful and cool that we were so happy the whole time we were staying at the yurt~~ 😆 It felt like a dream to get away from the city for a night and stay in a place with beautiful nature! There were so many stars at night that it looked like they were pouring down from the sky ⭐️ 📍Altyn Arashan valley, 721800 Kyrgyzstan #Altynarasan #AltynArashan #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Karakol

#AprilTravelSupport If you go to Kyrgyzstan, where nature is so beautiful and wonderful, You must try the Altynarasan trekking 💚 Altynarasan, called the Alps of Central Asia, has so many picturesque landscapes that I was so happy the whole time I was going up 😆 There are several courses in Altynarasan, so you can go up according to your situation and physical strength, and there are mountain huts in the middle, so you can rest and sleep! It was the perfect travel destination to make happy and unforgettable memories 👍🏻 📍Altynarasan, Kyrgyzstan #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Altynarasan #Karakol #Altynarasan

#AprilTravelSupport If you travel to Kyrgyzstan, Go up to the 3040m above sea level observatory in Karakol 💚 If you take the lift up, you will arrive at a wonderful observatory, and the view was really, really great 👍🏻 There is only one structure on the observatory, and nothing else, but the view is so worth it just to see the view They say that if you visit in winter, this place becomes a ski resort! If you visit in winter and ski while looking at the beautiful scenery, you will be able to make great memories 😆 📍9FRH+3GP, Karakol, Kyrgyzstan #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel #Karakol #KarakolTravel #CentralAsiaTravel

#AprilTravelSupport If you like nature, try Kapriz Karakol Hotel in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan 💚 You can see beautiful nature and scenery right in front of you, and at night, you can see stars that seem like they're pouring down ㅎㅎ The facilities are good, and if you take the cable car in front of the accommodation, you can go to the Karakol observation deck, and the view is really great 👍🏻 📍9FRH+3GP, Karakol, Kyrgyzstan #Karakol #KarakolAccommodation #Kyrgyzstan #KyrgyzstanTravel

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 #Altyn #Arashan in #Kyrgyzstan Altai Arashan is located in a high mountain canyon at an altitude of 3,000 meters and is the most popular scenic spot in #Karakol #karakol. You can hike into the mountain in 5 hours, and anyone with outdoor experience can easily reach it. There were no supplies along the way. The climate in the plateau changes quickly, so bring a raincoat, umbrella and jacket. Don't worry about accommodation, there are many yurts, there will be a place to stay even in the peak season, and the hosts can speak some English so communication is not a problem. I bargained down the price from 1500 som per person to 1400, including dinner and breakfast. There are 5 people in a room, and if there are fewer guests, they can stay alone. The quilt was thick and I didn't feel cold. Dinner includes a small plate of pilaf, a bowl of noodle soup and a small plate of salad. It is enough to fill you up. Hot tea and hot water are provided. Natural hot springs: Not every hotel has them, but the ones at the innermost ones have them. Even if you don't live there, you can still pay to take a bath in a small house. It costs 250 soms per person, and renting a towel is 100 soms for 30 minutes. The conditions are simple but the water temperature is quite high. It is the best way to relax after hiking. #Kyrgyzstan #karakolriver #CentralAsia #FiveCentralAsianCountries #FreeTravel

I came to Altyn Arashan in Kyrgyzstan. This place is absolutely stunning! I've traveled to many places around the world, but this might be the most beautiful! In Altyn Arashan, you can stay at a yurt camp and enjoy hot springs. You can also ride a horse to Lake Ala-Kul, and the journey there is breathtaking! You should definitely visit! 📍Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ffC51yABUnHuwqgP6

Introducing the spectacular Lake Alakol in Kyrgyzstan. It takes about 4 hours to get here by horseback from Altyn Arashan. The lake is about as high as Mt. Fuji. It is surrounded by mountains, and the lake is a beautiful light blue! The journey up by horseback from Altyn Arashan is also very beautiful! 📍Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wj7YdaSY8Y2Rne6g7 Please note that this place is only open in the summer. 📍Location: #0yentripFebruary2025

#europetrip Reaching Altyn-Arashan is an adventure in itself. The rugged terrain tests your spirit, whether you opt for an old Soviet van, a scenic hike, or a horseback ride through pristine landscapes. Nestled in Kyrgyzstan’s mountains, this hidden gem rewards the effort with breathtaking alpine meadows, hot springs, and towering peaks. The serenity here is unmatched—nature whispers all around you. The warm hospitality of locals adds to its charm, making Altyn-Arashan not just a destination but a soul-stirring experience of untouched wilderness.

Traveling to Kyrgyzstan is the best place for nature lovers because in villages in karakol you can see most beautiful cherry blossoms, hot spring, river and background of the mountains from your guesthouse. That time we also eat the local food in Kyrgyzstan. Our tour guide cook for us and serves us with the local cuisine 😋 Actually our tour guide is muslim and their all family members is very kind. Before we leave their house we took pictures together with the family🥰 it’s a good experience for me travel feeling like a local in Kyrgyzstan ☺️ #travel #naturalwonders #myitinerary #favouriteitinerary

Visiting Altin Arashan was a unique experience. This beautiful place boasts stunning landscapes surrounded by mountains and hot springs. The atmosphere was quiet and relaxing, so I enjoyed a walk through the valley. Swimming in the hot springs was a healing experience for both body and mind. We stopped by a local camp where the traditional food was delicious and full of flavor. I recommend everyone to visit Altin Arashan to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the place. It's an unforgettable travel destination! 🌄💧

Kyrgyzstan Altyn-Arashan Arrival by 3-4 hour one way course Caution, no internet or communication!!

3500m above sea level… beautiful nature 🥰

Kyrgyzstan is one of the emerging travel destinations these days. Known as the Switzerland of Central Asia, Altyn Arashan offers breathtaking natural scenery. Located in the Tien Shan mountain range, this yurt village requires about 5 hours of trekking. Besides trekking, you can also reach it by jeep or horseback! How to get there Start trekking from Karakol or Ak-Suu village (There is only one route.) Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Altyn Arashan is a valley and mountain resort near Karakol and Issyk Kul Lake, northeastern Kyrgyzstan. It lies along the trekking route from Teploklyuchenka. It is a hot spring development set in an alpine valley, containing the 5020 metre Pik Palatka in its southern part. Staying Altyn Arashan Guesthouse is the best option with good facilities and warm staff welcoming guests.

A peaceful and serene place. To get here you have to experience this bumpy road, if you go trekking it is very beautiful. In a beautiful and poetic place with electricity, hot water, internet, no phone, you are disconnected from the outside world.

A viewpoint where you can see Altyn Arashan (Altyn Arashan), 2,600m above sea level, which you arrived at in about 4 and a half hours. A river crossing the snow-capped mountains, forests, and plains 🏔️ Altyn Arashan (Altyn Arashan), located on the Tian Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan, is famous for its green meadows, wild flowers, and perennial snow, and is loved by backpackers. They say you have to come during peak season to enjoy it 100%, but in April in Kyrgyzstan, the snow had not yet melted, so we decided to go to the base camp for 2 days and 1 night, instead of the 4-5 day full course that passes through Ala kul lake (Arakol Lake), located at 3,900m above sea level. #Kyrgyzstan #Altyn Arashan #Trekking #Backpacking #Hot Place

Altyn Arashan (알티니 아라샤ン) means golden hot spring in Kyrgyz. It is said that this hot spring was built for tourists during the Soviet era. The hot spring water is rich in radon, which is good for your bones, but I was a little scared. ㅎㅎㅎ There were three hot spring rooms, and you could choose which one you wanted to go into because the water temperature was different. I paid 3,000 won and rented it ♨️ Altyni Arashan Base Camp Hot Spring 200 Som #Kyrgyzstan #Altyni Arashan #Hot Spring