KARAKOL - ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY

Karakol → Karakol Gorge → Kurgak‑Tor → Sirota (2900 m)

From Karakol we drive into one of the most picturesque gorges of the Terskey Ala‑Too range — Karakol Gorge. We reach the meadow at 2450 m, the former location of the alpinist camp.

From here, our trail turns east into Kurgak‑Tor Gorge. The ascent is scenic: the path climbs through a dense conifer forest, passing a small alpine lake.

The Orphan Shelter (Sirota Camp) is located about 200 meters above the lake.

Distance: ~7 km

Ascent: +450 m

Descent: 0 m

Time: 3–4 hours

Overnight: Camp at Sirota (2900 m)

Sirota → Ala‑Kul Lake → Camp under the pass

We follow a good trail along the left bank of the river, gradually ascending toward the rocky formations known as “mutton foreheads”.

Behind them lies the famous Ala‑Kul Lake. The ascent goes over rocky slopes and small talus sections.

Once we reach the ridge above the lake, a stunning panorama opens over the colorful waters of Ala‑Kul.

We set our camp on a convenient platform below Takyr‑Tor Pass.

Distance: ~6 km

Ascent: +700 m

Descent: –50 m

Time: 4–5 hours

Overnight: Camp under Takyr‑Tor Pass (~3600 m)

Crossing the pass → descent to wild hot spring

We ascend the glacier of Takyr‑Tor toward the saddle of the Takyr‑Tor Pass (4040 m).

From the top, we begin a long descent into the wild and remote Takyr‑Tor Gorge.

The trail leads past a unique natural feature — a hot spring emerging directly from the rock.

Distance: ~10 km

Ascent: +450 m

Descent: –900 m

Time: 6–7 hours

Overnight: Camp in Takyr‑Tor Gorge

Takyr‑Tor → Altyn‑Arashan Hot Springs

We continue descending along the gorge until we reach the wide valley of Altyn‑Arashan, famous for its natural hot sulphur springs.

This evening is perfect for relaxing in the warm pools after the demanding mountain days.

Distance: ~8 km

Ascent: 0 m

Descent: –600 m

Time: 3–4 hours

Overnight: Altyn‑Arashan (camp or guesthouse)

Descent to Ak‑Suu Valley → Transfer to Karakol

We follow a good trail down one of the most beautiful valleys of the region — Ak‑Suu Gorge.

From the village of Teploklyuchenka (Ak‑Suu), a vehicle will take us back to the Arista Yurt Camp in Karakol.

Distance: ~12 km

Ascent: 0 m

Descent: –900 m

Time: 4–5 hours

Transfer: Ak‑Suu → Karakol by car