Alay Travel Guide

Both Altyn-Arashan and Ala-Kol Lake are stunning natural destinations in Kyrgyzstan, located near the town of Kara-Kol and are popular for trekking and outdoor adventures.

Location in Google map: Altyn-Arashan

Altyn-Arashan

Altyn-Arashan is a picturesque alpine valley located just outside of Kara-Kol, famous for its hot springs, beautiful landscapes, and trekking opportunities. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks, including the Terskey Alatau range.

• Getting There:
  • From Kara-Kol, it’s about a 10-12 km drive to the start of the trailhead. The road is rough, but it’s possible to get there by jeep or car.
  • Alternatively, you can hike to Altyn-Arashan. The trail is approximately 3-4 hours one way from the city, with beautiful views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
• What to Do:
  • Hot Springs: Altyn-Arashan is known for its natural hot springs, where visitors can relax in the mineral-rich waters.
  • Trekking: There are various hiking routes in the area. One popular route is the trek to Ala-Kol Lake, which starts from Altyn-Arashan.
  • Camping: Many visitors camp in Altyn-Arashan for the night to enjoy the serene environment and starry skies.

Ala-Kol Lake

Ala-Kol Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake located in the Terskey Alatau mountains. It is a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by steep mountains, glaciers, and scenic landscapes. Location in Google map: Ala-Kol lake 

• Trekking to Ala-Kol Lake:
  • The Ala-Kol Lake trek is one of the most popular multi-day treks in Kyrgyzstan. The route can be done from Altyn-Arashan (taking about 5-6 hours to reach the lake) or from the town of Karakol (which adds a longer trek but offers more views).
  • The trek involves climbing up a steep trail, passing through a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and rocky paths. When you reach the lake, you are rewarded with the striking blue-green waters of Ala-Kol.
• What to Do:
  • Hiking and Camping: The area is perfect for trekking and camping. The trek to the lake can be challenging, so it’s recommended for experienced hikers. If you’re camping, consider staying at the lake overnight for an even more memorable experience.
  • Photography: The dramatic landscape around Ala-Kol Lake, with its clear waters and towering mountains, makes it a popular spot for photography.

Best Time to Visit:

• The ideal time to visit both Altyn-Arashan and Ala-Kol Lake is during the summer months (from late June to early September) when the weather is warmer, and the trekking conditions are favorable.

Travel Tips:

• Acclimatization: Both Altyn-Arashan and Ala-Kol are at high altitudes (Ala-Kol Lake is about 3,530 meters above sea level), so it’s recommended to acclimatize in Kara-Kol or a nearby area before attempting the trek.
• Guides: Hiring a local guide or joining a trekking group can enhance your experience and ensure safety, especially in remote areas.
• Camping Gear: If you plan to camp, make sure to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
• Weather: The climate varies as you move up the mountains, in May rain and hail are often expected, the average temperature is +2°, and in June +5°, then from July +10° to September +7° there will be warm dry weather. The average temperature from June to September is from 5 to 10 degrees, and at night it reaches minus temperatures.

If you want to hike to Lake Ala-Kol via Altyn-Arashan, you need to contact travel agencies in Kara-Kol.