Kalmak-Ashuu Pass
Калмак-Ашуу
The main pass from Kochkor up to Song-Kul, at 3,446 m. Once over the crest, Song-Kul and its grasslands come into view all at once.
Kalmak-Ashuu Pass lies northeast of Song-Kul and is the most common route up to the lake from Kochkor, via the Sary-Bulak direction. The pass is about 3,446 m high, and the drive from Kochkor to the lakeshore takes about 3–4 hours. Along the way you pass river-valley pastures and yurts. Once over the pass you look down on the Song-Kul basin, a popular stop for photos. The road is gravel, with steep slopes and many bends, so it is best to hire a local 4x4 vehicle. Snow closes the road from winter until late spring. At high altitude, protect yourself from the sun and watch for altitude sickness.
Opening hours
Open to vehicles about June–September