3 days Trekking tour to Alakul Lake

Trekking Adventure from Karakol to Altyn-Arashan

This Ala-Kol Lake Trekking Tour is one of the most famous mountain trekking routes in Kyrgyzstan. During the journey, travelers will hike through alpine valleys, dense forests, turquoise mountain lakes, and high mountain passes while discovering the spectacular landscapes of the Tian Shan mountains.

Moreover, this trekking adventure combines wilderness camping, panoramic viewpoints, alpine scenery, and relaxing natural hot springs. In addition, guests will explore Ala-Kol Lake, Altyn-Arashan Gorge, and the beautiful mountain landscapes near Karakol.

Best travel period: June – October

Tour Overview

• Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
• Tour type: Trekking Adventure
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Maximum altitude: 3,860 m
• Hiking distance: Approximately 31–32 km
• Accommodation: Tent camping / yurt camp areas

Why Choose This Ala-Kol Trekking Tour

• Hike to the famous Ala-Kol alpine lake
• Cross Ala-Kol Pass at 3,860 meters
• Explore remote mountain valleys and forests
• Camp in spectacular alpine scenery
• Relax in Altyn-Arashan hot springs
• Experience one of the best trekking routes in Kyrgyzstan
• Perfect adventure for nature and mountain lovers

Trekking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Karakol Gorge to Kurgak-Tor

After departure from Karakol early in the morning, we drive approximately 30 minutes toward Karakol Gorge, the starting point of the trek.

Upon arrival, guests will meet the trekking staff, prepare backpacks, and begin hiking through the scenic Karakol Valley.

The route includes:

• Easy hiking along mountain rivers
• Forest landscapes and alpine scenery
• Lunch stop near a small mountain lake

After lunch, the trail becomes steeper as we ascend toward Kurgak-Tor (Dry Gorge). The path passes through dense forest and mountain slopes before reaching the campsite at approximately 3,000 meters above sea level.

The total trekking distance for the day is approximately 13–14 km and takes around 4–5 hours.

Overnight near Orphan’s Shelter where a mountain hut can be used as a dining area during bad weather.

Accommodation: Tent Camp / Yurt Camp Area
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Ala-Kol Lake & Ala-Kol Pass

Day 2 – Kurgak-Tor to Keldike Gorge

After breakfast, we continue trekking toward Ala-Kol Lake at approximately 3,532 meters above sea level.

The ascent toward the lake takes around 2–3 hours at a moderate pace.

Upon arrival, guests will enjoy:

• Panoramic views of turquoise alpine waters
• Snow-covered mountain peaks
• Photography opportunities in high-altitude scenery

After a short rest near the lake, we continue along the northern shoreline toward Ala-Kol Pass at approximately 3,860 meters above sea level.

From the pass, travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range with peaks rising above 5,000 meters.

Later, we descend toward Keldike Gorge and set up camp approximately 30–40 minutes below the pass.

The total trekking distance for the day is approximately 8 km and takes around 4–5 hours.

Accommodation: Tent Camp / Yurt Camp Area
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Altyn-Arashan Hot Springs

Day 3 – Keldike Gorge to Karakol

After breakfast, we descend through Keldike Gorge toward Altyn-Arashan Gorge at approximately 2,500 meters above sea level.

The descent takes around 2–3 hours depending on pace, covering approximately 10 km.

Upon arrival in Altyn-Arashan, guests will enjoy:

• Natural mineral hot springs
• Relaxation surrounded by alpine mountains
• Optional walks to additional wild hot spring sources near the river

Lunch will be served before returning by vehicle to Karakol.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch