Ala-Kul lake

Lake Ala-Kul is located at 3560m above sea level in the Terskej-Alatau high mountains in eastern Kyrgyzstan. The hike to the glacial lake can take several days and leads through green valleys, past rivers, forests and yurt camps. However, the effort pays off with the first glimpse of the turquoise waters of the glacier lake.

The mystical lake was first described by a Russian explorer in 1811. 30 years later, the German biologist Alexander Schrenk traveled to the described site and confirmed the earlier records. Since then, the lake has become a popular hiking destination and its water is even rumored to have healing powers.

In relation to the enormous lakes that the Kyrgyz landscape has to offer, the Ala-Kul lake comparatively small. Although the surface area is limited to less than 1.5 km², it reaches up to 70m at the deepest points. A strong wind blows along the lake shore and the valley is surrounded by snow-covered mountain ridges. The view is particularly impressive when the mountain peaks and the rocky lakeshore are illuminated in the golden sunlight. To admire the magical landscape for as long as possible, you can pitch your tent in an idyllic spot for the night and let the untouched nature take effect on you.

Adapted to your hiking pace, the trip to the lake can take from 2 days to 4 days. Before starting, however, it is important to get used to the altitude conditions so as not to trigger altitude sickness. Drink plenty of fluids and do not overexert yourself is the motto here. There are two different routes for the ascent: Over the Ala-Kul pass or through the Altyn-Arashan valley. There is a wide variety of route plans for all levels of ability, so that the trip is easily manageable for most people with an average level of activity. A route plan can be found for any ability level, so the trip is well manageable for most visitors. If your way back to Karakol is through the Altyn-Arashan Valley, you can stop at the hot springs on the last evening of your tour to give your tired muscles a well-deserved rest.

Do you want to see Lake Ala-Kul with your own eyes, but you don't want to go on a long journey alone? With us you can reach the lake in just one day! Fit enough? With our Kyrgyzstan trip you will learn more.