3 days trek Ala-Kul Lake Alpine Loop 2026

OVERVIEW

Your journey begins in the lush Karakol Gorge, trekking through dense spruce forests and alongside rushing rivers to reach the secluded Sirota Camp. This initial stretch provides a steady climb through the wilderness, setting the stage for a challenging ascent toward the high-altitude terrain.

The trek peaks with a steep climb to the breathtaking Ala-Kul Lake and the Ala-Kul Pass (3,900m), offering unrivaled views of the surrounding glaciers. From the summit, you descend into the Keldyke Valley and arrive at the Altyn-Arashan gorge, where you can soothe your muscles in natural geothermal hot springs surrounded by alpine meadows.

The final leg follows the Arashan River through a dramatic narrow canyon as you descend back toward the valley floor. This classic loop concludes with a scenic transfer back to Karakol, completing a diverse circuit of rugged mountain passes, glacial lakes, and relaxing thermal retreats.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

This 3-day trek is a condensed “Best of the Tian Shan” experience. It targets the most iconic landmarks of the Terskey Alatau range: the massive Karakol Peak, the turquoise Ala-Kul Lake, and the restorative Altyn-Arashan Hot Springs. It is physically demanding due to significant altitude gains but rewards trekkers with world-class alpine scenery and unique cultural experiences, like staying in a traditional yurt.

Lake Ala-Kul is a true jewel of the Terskey Ala-Too range. This high-altitude glacial lake is perched at an elevation of 3,500 meters, surrounded by jagged, snow-capped ridges. Its name translates to “The Colorful Lake,” as the water constantly shifts between shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep violet depending on the sunlight. The ascent to the lake is widely considered one of the most stunning and visually rewarding hiking trails in Central Asia.

Tour Overview: The Ala-Kul Alpine Loop

• Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

• Total Distance: Approximately 41 km

• Difficulty: Strenuous (High altitude gains and steep descents)

• Maximum Altitude: 3,860 m (Ala-Kul Pass)

• Highlights:

  • Karakol Peak (5,216 m): Up-close views of one of Kyrgyzstan’s highest and most majestic summits.

  • Ala-Kul Lake: A high-altitude glacial lake famous for its shifting shades of blue and emerald.

  • Altyn-Arashan: Relaxing in natural thermal sulfur baths after a high-pass crossing.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Karakol Town → Alpine Camp (Base of the Giants)

Your adventure begins with a rugged 1.5-hour 4×4 drive from Karakol into the deep, forested Karakol Gorge. After dropping your main gear at the camp, you’ll set off on a warm-up hike toward the foot of Karakol Peak.

The trail follows the river upstream through ancient spruce forests. As the valley opens up, the massive, ice-clad face of Karakol Peak (5,216 m) comes into view. After a scenic lunch in the shadow of the glacier, you will return to the Alpine Camp. The evening features a campfire, a briefing for the difficult climb ahead, and a hearty dinner in a traditional yurt.

• Trekking Distance: 14 km (Round trip)

• Altitude Change: +600 m / -600 m

• Time: 5–6 hours

• Accommodation: Yurt

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Alpine Camp → Ala-Kul Lake (The Big Climb)

Today is the most physically challenging day of the trek. After an early breakfast, you’ll cross the river and begin a relentless ascent toward the legendary Ala-Kul Lake.

The trail climbs 1,100 meters through varying terrain—from dense forests to rocky alpine meadows. Midday, you’ll find a small mountain hut to catch your breath before the final push to the lakeshore (3,500 m). Depending on the season and ice conditions, you may have the unique opportunity to cross the lake via kayak or boat, offering a perspective few travelers ever see. You will spend the night in tents right on the edge of this glacial marvel.

• Trekking Distance: 12 km

• Altitude Change: +1,100 m / -100 m

• Time: 6–7 hours

• Accommodation: Tent

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Ala-Kul Lake → Altyn-Arashan → Karakol (The Grand Finale)

The final day starts with a short but steep climb to the Ala-Kul Pass (3,860 m). From the summit, you are treated to a 360-degree panorama of the Terskey Ala-Too range, with peaks soaring above 5,000 meters in every direction.

From the pass, you begin a long, scenic descent into the Altyn-Arashan (Golden Spa) Valley. This lush, pine-filled gorge is world-famous for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival, you can soak your tired muscles in the thermal baths. The journey concludes with a thrilling, bumpy ride back to Karakol in a UAZ (a rugged Soviet-era 4×4), marking the end of an epic mountain circuit.

• Trekking Distance: 15 km

• Altitude Change: +350 m / -1,400 m

• Time: 6–7 hours

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Quick Preparation Tips

• Hydration: Bring a reusable water bottle; your guide can advise on safe glacial streams for refills (purification is recommended).

• The Descent: The path from the pass to Altyn-Arashan is steep and contains loose scree. Trekking poles are highly recommended to save your knees.

• Weather: Even in mid-summer, temperatures at the Ala-Kul campsite can drop below freezing. Pack thermal layers and a warm hat.

PRICING 2026

Looking for different dates? Private departures are available on your preferred dates. Inquire now to book your private tour at travel@visitkyrgyzstan.kg