The mesmerizing, turquoise alpine lake nestled in the rocky grey mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Ala Kul sits beneath a cloudy, blue sky.

Ala Kul and Altyn Arashan: Hiking and Horseback Riding Tips

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Mesmerizing opal reflections on the water surface, kissed by glowing rays of sun. 

The vibrant waves of the Pacific surrounding the breathtaking island of Fiji? Not quite.

The shimmering, glacial blue of Lake Pukaki beneath the prominent mountain of Aoraki in New Zealand? Close, but not it.

A young women wearing a purple coat, grey ball cap, black pants and worn white tennis shoes, gazes upon a turquoise blue lake – Ala Kul Lake – nestled between rocky, grey mountains in Kyrgyzstan.
Captivated by the shimmering, turquoise Ala Kul Lake.
Nestled in the Terskey Alatau range, part of the greater Tian Shan mountain range, is a hidden alpine lake with mesmerizing blue water.

Sitting quietly beneath the prominent mountains that give it life, Ala Kul Lake is a breathtakingly blue alpine lake at over 3,500 meters of elevation. Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful lake – the dazzling gem of Central Asian landscapes – is quite hidden (and a trek to get to!), but worth adding to your Kyrgyzstan itinerary.

The mesmerizing, turquoise alpine lake nestled in the rocky grey mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Ala Kul sits beneath a cloudy, blue sky.
Yes, it really is THAT blue!
A young women wearing two braids, a grey ball cap, and a purple coat, poses in awe in front of Ala Kul Lake.
This was the most difficult but rewarding hike in Kyrgyzstan.
Having seen awe-inspiring photos of Ala Kul lake and Altyn Arashan, the beautiful valley beneath the alpine lake, I had to experience these incredible landscapes for myself. 
A horseback riding among the pine trees in Altyn Arashan, with monumental peaks in the background.
On route to Ala Kul, from Altyn Arashan. Kyrgyzstan is the perfect place for hikers and horseback riders.

As part of my twelve-day horseback riding adventure in Kyrgyzstan, I spent three days exploring the landscapes surrounding Ala Kul, and one unforgettable day trekking from Altyn Arashan to Ala Kul (partly on horseback and partly on foot).

This guide will cover important details about the trek to Ala Kul and Altyn Arashan, suggest hiking and horseback riding itineraries for adventurous travelers, and cover helpful tips before you make the unforgettable trek.

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A collage of the breathtaking Ala Kul Lake in Northeastern Kyrgyzstan. The first photo shows the lake, seen from Ala Kul pass, the second photo shows a women sitting on the rocks above Ala Kul Lake, gazing upon the turquoise water. The text reads, "Ultimate guide to trekking to Ala Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan's most beautiful alpine lake", with the website title, beautyandthebucketlist.com below.
A collage of photos of Altyn Arashan including a horseback rider riding among the pine trees outside of Altyn Arashan valley with Karakol peak in the background, and a pair of horses tied up on a wooden beam with the Tian Shan mountains in the background. The website title, beautyandthebucketlist.com, is at the top of the collage and the text reads "Horseback riding to Altyn Arashan, Kyrgyzstan".

Through trials and tribulations – hiking underpreparedness and a beat-up pair of AF1s that barely got me up Ala Kul pass – I understand what is necessary to make your trek to Ala Kul unforgettable and safe. 

Pack your bags and your hiking shoes and experience the Kyrgyz “wilderness” for all its splendor and inspiration!

Where is Ala Kul Lake?

Ala Kul lake is a breathtaking 3,500+ meter alpine lake nestled within the Terskey Alatau mountain range.

Part of the greater Tian Shan mountain range – Central Asia’s most rugged and breathtaking mountain range – Ala Kul is situated in the Northeastern part of Kyrgyzstan, about 20 kilometers from Karakol.

Bella at the top of Ala Kul pass, with the turquoise lake below.
0% edited. 100% incredible.

The trek to Ala Kul lake is difficult – whether you complete the adventure on foot or on horseback – and requires adventurers to trek over Ala Kul pass, a 3,900 meter pass with breathtaking views of the Karakol valley and the turquoise lake beneath it.

A young woman with two braids and a grey hat has a shocked, open-mouthed expression while holding a gloved-hand out in front of a Rocky Mountain side with an unforgettable blue lake.
After seeing incredible photos of Ala Kul online, I knew I had to see it for myself! I was so happy I completed the challenging but rewarding trek up Ala Kul pass!

Many hikers begin their journey to Ala Kul lake from Karakol, enjoying the luxuries of city life before embracing the rugged-but-rewarding trek to Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful alpine lake.

Here are my top recommendations for where to stay in Karakol!

Where to Stay in Karakol

Duet Hostel
budget-friendly

The perfect hostel for backpackers offering unforgettable Kyrgyz hospitality and comfortable private and dorm-style rooms.

Snow Leopard Hostel
budget-friendly

A central, no-frills budget hostel perfect for trekkers looking for a home base before starting the trek to Ala Kul lake. 

Happy Nomads Yurts and Hostel
budget-friendly

A traditional Kyrgyz yurt experience just outside the bustling city center of Karakol.

Urban Monkey
budget-friendly

Tent camping without the typical outdoor adversities (indoor tent camping – no need to brave the elements!). This social hostel is perfect for campers and budget backpackers.

My Hotel Karakol
upscale but affordable

A classic hotel offering free breakfast and private rooms – this hotel in Karakol is perfect for travelers who want the luxury of a traditional hotel at an affordable price.

Where is Altyn Arashan?

Altyn Arashan is a breathtaking valley nestled within the Tian Shan mountains in the Northeastern region of Kyrgyzstan.

This mesmerizing valley, surrounded by rocky peaks and pine-covered mountains, is home to local hot springs and traditional yurt camps.

A river with a wooden bridge running through the Altyn Arashan valley with yurt camps on the hillside near the river banks.
Yurt camps along the hillside of Altyn Arashan valley.
Altyn Arashan is both a start and an end to the Ala Kul trek (depending on your route). 

If you plan to ride on horseback to Ala Kul lake, some hiking is required from the Keldike Gorge to the top of Ala Kul pass due to the steep, loose gravel terrain of the trail. Many travelers who hike to Ala Kul from Karakol on foot will end at Altyn Arashan.

A young women wearing a blue rain coat with a grey cap and blank pants posing under a brown sign decorated with lots of stickers that says "Altyn Arashan" in Kyrgyz and English.
Welcome to Altyn Arashan!

Whether you choose to horseback ride to Ala Kul or make the unforgettable three- or four- day trek to Ala Kul on foot, I highly recommend staying a few nights in Altyn Arashan to enjoy the valley’s incredible views and enticing hot springs. 

How to Hike to Ala Kul (on Foot)

The best way to hike to Ala Kul lake on foot is from Karakol. 

Many travelers will usually start from hostels or guesthouses and take the local minibus #101 (marshrutka #101) to the start of the trail. Duet Hostel and Snow Leopard Hostel are two budget-friendly accommodations where like-minded adventurers gather. At these hostels you’ll meet other trekkers and get recommendations for completing the trek to Ala Kul. 

Along the unforgettable trek to Ala Kul lake, you’ll traverse ~55 kilometers and ascend over the 3,900 meter Ala Kul pass. The reward is a beautiful view of the mesmerizing Ala Kul lake!

Bella, Lily, Medet and Lena, with their arms held out wide at the top of Ala Kul pass. The vibrant lake shines below.
My favorite shade of blue 🩵!

This hike is suggested for active hikers and fit individuals – you’ll immerse yourself in the high-elevation, rugged nature of Central Asia! If you’re not used to the high altitude, make sure to give yourself time to acclimate before starting the trek to prevent altitude sickness!

Suggested Three-Day Hiking Itinerary for Ala Kul Trek

Day 1: Karakol to Sirota Valley

Start your trek to Ala Kul lake from Karakol.

The best way to get to the start of the trail is to take either marshrutka #101 (the local minibus) or hire a taxi (use Yandex app or get help from your hostel or guesthouse). From the start of the trailhead, walk along the trail to the entrance of the park and pay the ~220 som entry fee. 

From the entrance to Altyn Arashan, you’ll continue hiking ~16 kilometers to Sirota camp – a popular place to set up camp after the first day of hiking. The views along the trail are spectacular, you’ll follow the river and watch as the mountains surrounding you grow taller!

A river leading to Altyn Arashan, surrounded by rocks along the bank and tall pine trees with a cloudy blue sky.
A rushing river along one of the trails to Altyn Arashan and Ala Kul.

If you didn’t bring your own tent, or would rather stay in a yurt, local accommodations may be available for a small fee (~4000 som or ~45USD per person, ~600-800 som per meal). However, this trekking route is becoming increasingly popular, so options might be limited.
To book your yurt accommodation at Sirota in advance, here is a great local resource!

Day 2: Sirota Valley – Ala Kul Lake – Ala Kul Pass – Altyn Arashan

The second day of your hike to Ala Kul lake is the most strenuous part of the trek.

You’ll traverse over 20 kilometers of trail and ascend over 1200 meters of elevation gain! Make sure to stay hydrated to beat altitude sickness and wear lots of sunscreen!

Layers of mountains in Kyrgyzstan at the top of the Ala Kul pass.
Layers of mountains in Kyrgyzstan at the top of the Ala Kul pass.
Following the well-hiked Ala Kul trail, you’ll head towards Ala Kul lake – the shimmering turquoise lake you’ve been waiting to see for yourself. 

This part of the trail to Ala Kul is rocky and steep at many points – you’ll do lots of scrambling and shuffling until you get to Ala Kul lake. I recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes (TOP PICKS: women’s hiking boots – men’s hiking boots) and hiking poles if you’d like extra support. 

Once you make it to Ala Kul lake you’ll experience the vibrant turquoise lake in all its splendor. This is a great place to stop for lunch and enjoy the view!

The day isn’t over yet! You have to hike up Ala Kul pass, a 3,900 meter pass with lots of loose rock and gravel. From Ala Kul lake, the ascent is nearly 300-400 meters – one of the steepest parts of the trek. 

A young woman wearing a blue rain jacket, black pants and a grey ball camp smiles at the top of Ala Kul pass, with the turquoise lake in the background.
WORTH the climb!

What goes up must come down! Once you make it to the top of Ala Kul pass, you’ll descend down the opposite face to Keldike Gorge, the location of a high-elevation yurt camp. This part of the trail is very steep, with lots of loose gravel. I found myself SLIDING down to prevent falling…if you’re already down, you can’t fall more!

A young women with two braids, a purple coat and a grey baseball cap taking a selfie along the gravel trail of Ala Kul Pass. Behind her is another young hiker.
Can’t fall if you’re already on the ground (this is SERIOUSLY how we made it down the mountain)!

From Keldike Gorge you can inquire about “horse taxis”: renting a local horse to ride down to Altyn Arashan. However, due to the high demand of the mountain horses, prices will be steep (pun intended 😏)!

The hike down from Keldike Gorge to Altyn Arashan – a great place to rest and enjoy the local hot springs – is approximately 12-13 kilometers. Compared to the steep ascent to Ala Kul pass, this part of the trail is a walk in the park!

The beautiful Altyn Arashan valley with a rocky cliff face on the right, a wooden fence in the foreground, and snow covered peaks in the background.
The peaceful Altyn Arashan valley.

Enjoy your evening in Altyn Arashan, I recommend eating dinner at Elza Guesthouse. Many trekkers, myself included, stay in Elza Guesthouse so you’ll enjoy debriefing with other adventurers over a hearty dinner!

Day 3: Altyn Arashan to Karakol

The hiking journey from Karakol to Ala Kul is nearing the end!

You can choose to catch a ride in a Soviet-style jeep from Altyn Arashan back to Karakol, ride on horseback to Ak Suu village (just outside of Karakol), or continue the trek on foot.

Horseback Riding to Ala Kul from Altyn Arashan

Horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan is one of the most incredible, confidence-boosting experiences for riders and non-riders alike. 

My twelve-day horseback riding trip around Kyrgyzstan’s breathtaking landscapes was one of my favorite travel experiences! If you have the chance to horseback ride when you visit Central Asia, I highly recommend doing so in Kyrgyzstan.

A young woman riding a dark brown horse along a raging grey river on the way to Altyn Arashan. Pine trees decorate the scene.
Horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan is a bucket list experience!

If you choose to horseback ride to Altyn Arashan and Ala Kul lake instead of trekking on foot, you’ll take a different route than the traditional Karakol → Ala Kul lake → Altyn Arashan route. 

The horseback riding route begins at a small village outside of Karakol called Ak Suu. You’ll ride towards Altyn Arashan, stopping at an entry point where you’ll pay a small entrance fee, ~220 som. 

The ride continues to Altyn Arashan, riding along a rushing river, through the monumental pine trees. From Altyn Arashan, you’ll ride to Keldike Gorge, the location of a high elevation yurt camp and the place where horses rest while you make your ascent (too steep on horseback up the pass). 

A small group of horseback riders riding towards a bare, rock-covered Mountain in Kyrgyzstan. The base of this mountain is Keldike Gorge.
Riding to Keldike Gorge, the highest point where horses can go – the rest will be trekked on foot!

Horseback riding in Altyn Arashan is the perfect way to go outside your comfort zone and explore the Kyrgyz landscapes on horseback! I highly recommend looking into horseback riding to Altyn Arashan if you don’t want to make the trek on foot. 

Suggested Horseback Riding Itinerary to Ala Kul

Day 1: Karakol – Ak Suu – Altyn Arashan

After enjoying breakfast at your local guesthouse or hostel, catch a taxi to Ak Suu Village, the location where you can rent horses and meet with a local riding guide.

The increasing popularity of the Ala Kul trek on horseback might require you to book a tour in advance, especially during peak summer season!

I booked my twelve-day horseback riding trip to Kyrgyzstan, which included three days in Altyn Arashan (and the Ala Kul pass summit), with Kyrgyz Riders, a locally-owned tour organization specializing in tailored itineraries for horseback riders (of all skill levels). 

A rearing horse with a brave rider among the pine trees on a trail to Altyn Arashan.
Our fearless guide, Medet (Kyrgyz Riders).

I also recommend booking a guided horseback riding tour from Karakol with Destination Karakol. Specializing in sustainable adventures, this local company is a great contact for spontaneous travelers! 

From Ak Suu village, you’ll ride directly to Altyn Arashan, stopping for a picnic lunch along the trail. This was one of my favorite horseback rides in Kyrgyzstan because of the similarities between the mountain landscapes I know and love back home in Colorado. 

A group of horseback riders riding along a gravel trail, surrounded by pine-covered trees on the rising mountains adjacent to them.
Kyrgyzstan or Colorado?

Once you make it to Altyn Arashan, you’ll have time to explore the valley and enjoy the natural hot springs!

Day 2: Altyn Arashan to Ala Kul Pass

Day two of your horseback ride is the most strenuous day. 

Your guide will have the horses ready bright and early, after you enjoy breakfast at your local guesthouse or yurt camp. You’ll venture deep into the mountainous region of Northeast Kyrgyzstan, riding through the pine-covered mountainsides of the Terskey Alatau range.

A horseback rider riding along a rushing river among pine trees outside of Altyn Arashan. A rainbow reflection appears over the rider.
Somewhere, over the rainbow (in Kyrgyzstan).

I was so captured by the beauty of the rugged landscapes of Kyrgyzstan, especially with the snowcapped Karakol Peak visible from the valley.

Once you arrive at Kelide Gorge, you’ll hitch your horses – they cannot ascend further due to the steep terrain and loose gravel of the trail. 

Saddled horses tethered to a long, horizontal wooden pole at the top of Keldike Gorge in the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan.
Our horses can only take us so far…time to trek up Ala Kul pass!

The ascent up Ala Kul pass from Keldike Gorge is not easy, and not for acrophobics. But whether you make it up to the top very slowly by army crawling like I did, or you zoom up the loose gravel, the view is incredible regardless!

A group of four hikers at the top of Ala Kul pass, smiling with the turquoise lake in the background, surrounded by jagged grey mountains and a cloud-filled blue sky.
The hike to Ala Kul was a remarkable end to my adventure in Kyrgyzstan!

After enjoying a short lunch at the top of Ala Kul pass, you’ll descend the same gravel path you struggled up. I slid down the mountain on my butt to prevent falling or injuring myself. 

A young woman wearing a purple coat sits along the steep gravel trail of Ala Kul pass, gazing at the rest of the trek above her.
In this moment, I questioned, can I even make it up there? I kept pushing myself despite my fears and I am so glad I did!
A young woman wearing a ball cap, blue sunglasses, a purple coat and a plaid flannel beneath it points towards the steep gravel trail up Ala Kul pass.
I CLIMBED THAT (pics or it didn’t happen).

Once you make it back to Keldike Gorge, you’ll be celebrating! I’ve never felt more proud of myself than when I made it up (and back down) Ala Kul pass. 

Pick up the horses and head back to Altyn Arashan, the hot springs are waiting!
A mostly shadowed young women in an enclosed hot spring wearing a ball cap, perching her arms along a stone railing, gazing out to the light of Altyn Arashan valley.
My legs needed this after climbing Ala Kul pass!

Day 3: Altyn Arashan – Ak Suu – Karakol

Your last morning in the beautiful Altyn Arashan valley will hopefully be relaxing, although you might be sore from yesterday’s trek!

You’ll mount your horses and ride back to Ak Suu, the local village where you started your horseback ride.

Where to Stay in Altyn Arashan

My top recommendation for where to stay in Altyn Arashan is Elza Guesthouse. 

Located in the heart of the valley of Altyn Arashan, Elza Guesthouse is a cozy, budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable beds, delicious meals, and a relaxing private hot spring. 

Elza Guesthouse is the best place to meet other adventurers and relax after a day of trekking in Northeastern Kyrgyzstan.

What to Pack for Hiking and Horseback Riding to Ala Kul

This three-day adventure to Kyrgyzstan’s most breathtaking alpine lake is one adventure you’ll want to be adequately prepared for. 

Among the most important things to pack, I recommend bringing a pair of fleece-lined hiking pants (recommendation for women’s hiking pants – for men’s hiking pants), some mineral sunscreen (my favorite is the Blue Lizard), and a high quality water filtration bottle (or the Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system if you want to make the investment! I used it SO OFTEN in Kyrgyzstan!). 

Additionally, if you need support while traversing the steep Ala Kul pass, a pair of hiking poles are never a bad idea!

For more information about what I packed for Kyrgyzstan (my MOST VALUABLE items in my backpack!), check out my ultimate Kyrgyzstan packing list, which is great for horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan or hiking!

The MOST important items I packed for Kyrgyzstan so you don’t have to worry about forgetting essential items.
Discover the Kyrgyzstan Packing List

Things to Know Before Hiking to Ala Kul

(and horseback riding too 🐴)
A young woman with two braids, a grey ball cap, and a purple coat smiles in front of the turquoise Ala Kul Lake beneath Ala Kul pass.
Ala Kul Lake is a must-visit place in Kyrgyzstan.
Pack Light but SMART

Whether you’re planning to hike to Ala Kul lake on foot or ride on horseback most of the way, pack light but don’t forget to pack the essentials – a tent and a sleeping mat if you’re camping, warm clothes for the cold nights, mineral sunscreen, hiking gear, and a water filtration system. For more information about what to pack for Kyrgyzstan, read my ESSENTIAL Kyrgyzstan packing list!

Bring Food if you Don’t Plan to Eat with Locals

A lot of trekkers usually pay local camps for lunch and dinner along the trek. However, if you don’t plan on eating the local cuisine, pack nutrient-dense, carb-loaded food to sustain your energy along the way. 

Acclimate to Prevent Altitude Sickness

The biggest mistake people make when traveling to the high elevation regions of Kyrgyzstan is to not give themselves enough time to acclimate to the elevation. As a Colorado girl who is used to higher elevations, even I needed time to acclimate to the elevation. Altyn Arashan rests at a whopping 9,800 meters, even taller than Breckenridge, Colorado!

Spend a night or two acclimatizing in Karakol before you make the trek to Ala Kul lake and don’t forget to drink lots of water!

Drink Lots of Water

Drinking plenty of water is the best way to prevent altitude sickness in Kyrgyzstan. Make sure to bring a water filtration bottle or a high tech water filtration system (I used my Sawyer Squeeze frequently in the remote regions of Kyrgyzstan!).

Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes (with Traction)

The biggest mistake I made when trekking to Ala Kul lake was to wear my beat up AF1s. When I booked my horseback riding tour with Kyrgyz Riders, I didn’t anticipate that we would be hiking – I only figured we would be riding. But because of the steep, loose gravel along Ala Kul pass, horses cannot ascend beyond Keldike Gorge, the final stop before the ascent. 

In my beat up AF1s, I bear crawled up the side of the mountain, hoping I wouldn’t slide back down to the Gorge. Would hiking shoes help me? Most likely. 

Even though I made it up and down Ala Kul pass in my AF1s, I recommend bringing a pair of hiking boots WITH traction to minimize sliding on the gravel.

Enjoy the Views!

How can you not enjoy the breathtaking views of Kyrgyzstan? Central Asia is such an incredible place.

A group of horseback riders riding along a rocky hillside in the Tian Shan mountains outside of Altyn Arashan.
Central Asia – specifically Kyrgyzstan – has some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen!
If you’re reading this, you’ve made it to the end of my detailed guide to hiking to Ala Kul and Altyn Arashan! Enjoy the journey, it is SPECTACULAR!
Want to explore even MORE Kyrgyzstan content?
Check out my latest Kyrgyzstan blog Posts BELOW ⬇️

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Where to Stay in Bishkek: Kyrgyzstan’s Capital City

15 Incredible Reasons To Visit Kyrgyzstan: Central Asia’s Hidden Gem

Guide to Horseback Riding in Kyrgyzstan: Tips from a Horse Girl

Essential Kyrgyzstan Packing List: My Most-Used Items for Horseback Riding in Central Asia

Ultimate Guide to Kyrgyzstan’s Most Beautiful Lake: Kel Suu

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Save these pins for an unforgettable (and safe) trek to Ala Kul Lake and the beautiful valley of Altyn Arashan beneath it.

A collage of photos including a young women wearing black pants, a ball cap, and a plaid shirt beneath a purple coat gazing upon a turquoise blue lake at the base of jagged grey peaks, a young woman posing in front of a sticker-decorated sign that says "Altyn Arashan" in Kyrgyz and English, and a rushing river beneath tall pine trees. The text reads, "Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide, Trek to Ala Kul Lake" with the website title beautyandthebucketlist.com beneath it.
A collage of beautiful Kyrgyzstan landscapes including a selfie of a young woman wearing braided hair, a grey ball cap, and a purple coat, smiling in front of the turquoise Ala Kul Lake, a group of four hikers posing in front of Ala Kul Lake (at the top of the pass), and a scenic group of horseback riders riding along a rider through the pine forest. The text reads, "Ala Kul and Altyn Arashan, Kyrgyzstan, Hiking and Horseback Riding Tips" with the website title, beautyandthebucketlist.com.

Bella is a full-time biochemical engineer with a passion for exploration! When she's not experimenting in the lab, she's planning detailed itineraries and searching for off-the-beaten-path travel experiences! Bella created Beauty and the Bucket List to inspire generations of people to travel the world within the limits of PTO! This is your sign to BOOK that bucket list adventure!

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