Ala-Kul Lake

Ала-Көл

A glacial lake at about 3,500 meters, its emerald water nestled between snowy peaks. It is Kyrgyzstan's classic multi-day hiking destination.

Ala-Kul lies in the Terskey Ala-Too range, southeast of Karakol. The lake sits at about 3,500 meters, is about 2 km long, and is fed by glacier meltwater. Its color shifts from emerald to Turkish blue with the light, and it is surrounded by steep scree slopes and snowy peaks. The classic route is a three-day loop. On day one, follow the Karakol River valley up from the Karakol National Park entrance to Sirota camp. On day two, climb to the lake (some sections are steep scree slopes), then camp by the shore or cross the Ala-Kul pass at about 3,860 meters, where you can look down over the whole lake. On day three, descend to the Altyn-Arashan hot spring valley for a soak, then continue to Ak-Suu village to finish. Some hikers do the loop in reverse, starting from Altyn-Arashan. Karakol's hostels and tour agencies can rent tents and arrange guides and horses to carry packs. The national park entry fee is small (check on site). This hike requires some high-altitude experience, and you should watch for altitude sickness. The weather changes quickly, and it can snow even in July, so bring cold-weather gear. Register your itinerary in Karakol before setting out.

Ala-Kul Lake

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