
cultural-tours
Around Issyk-Kul lake
Issyk-Kul7 daysup to 105.0 (0)
Overview
Around Issyk-Kul lake
Detailed description
Issyk-Kul Lake is one of the most beautiful and famous lakes in Central Asia, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Tien Shan Mountains. It is the second-largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca and one of Kyrgyzstan’s greatest natural treasures.
Known as the “Pearl of Kyrgyzstan,” Issyk-Kul is famous for its warm, crystal-clear waters, scenic beaches, snow-capped mountains, ancient petroglyphs, and rich cultural heritage. The lake offers unforgettable experiences, from relaxing by the shore to hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the traditions of the local people.
Photo gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek – Chong-Kemin Valley – Karool-Dobo Village
In the morning, departure from Bishkek towards the beautiful Chong-Kemin Valley. On the way, visit the historic Burana Tower architectural complex (10th–11th century), an important site along the Great Silk Road. After the visit, enjoy lunch with a welcoming Kyrgyz family near the tower.
Continue the journey to Chong-Kemin Valley and Karool-Dobo village. Upon arrival at the homestay, enjoy free time to relax. Optional activities include a short hike or horseback riding around the village.
Dinner and overnight stay at a local homestay.
Day 2: Chong-Kemin – Issyk-Kul Lake – Karakol
After breakfast, transfer to Karakol along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, visit the open-air museum in Cholpon-Ata, famous for its ancient petroglyphs, and enjoy lunch.
Upon arrival in Karakol, explore the city’s cultural landmarks, including the unique Dungan Mosque and the Russian Orthodox Church.
Dinner at a local café and overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 3: Karakol – Ak-Suu – Altyn-Arashan Gorge
After breakfast, transfer from Karakol to Ak-Suu village. Meet your trekking team and begin the hike through the beautiful Ak-Suu River valley towards Altyn-Arashan.
The first day takes you to the famous Altyn-Arashan resort, known for its natural hot springs. Here you can relax in the healing thermal waters surrounded by magnificent mountains.
Enjoy unforgettable views of the snow-covered Palatka Peak (5260 m) and the famous “Swallow’s Nest Pool” hidden among the alpine landscapes.
Overnight in a mountain hut.
Day 4: Altyn-Arashan – Ak-Suu – Karakol – Jety-Oguz – Bokonbaevo
After breakfast in Altyn-Arashan Gorge, enjoy another opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs.
After descending by vehicle (4х4) to the Karakol. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy lunch at a local café, offering an opportunity to sample traditional regional cuisine. The adventure then proceeds to the famous Jeti-Ögüz Gorge ("Seven Bulls"), one of Kyrgyzstan's most iconic natural landmarks, renowned for its striking red sandstone cliffs set against a backdrop of lush spruce forests.
The next stop is the spectacular Skazka Canyon (Fairy Tale Canyon), known for its colorful rock formations and unique landscapes.
Dinner and overnight stay at yurt camp or a homestay in Bokonbaevo village.
Day 5: Bokonbaevo – Tuura-Suu Village – Ashuu-Tor Jailoo
Early in the morning, transfer to Tuura-Suu village, where you will meet your guide and begin the mountain journey towards the first high-mountain jailoo.
Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way surrounded by beautiful landscapes. In the afternoon, arrive at Ashuu-Tor Jailoo, where you can admire a spectacular sunset and panoramic views of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Overnight in traditional shepherds’ yurts.
Day 6: Ashuu-Tor – Tuiuk-Tor – Jazuu-Kechuu Jailoo
After breakfast, continue the route towards Tuiuk-Tor Jailoo. After lunch, take time to relax and enjoy breathtaking views of Issyk-Kul Lake and the surrounding valleys.
Later, continue to Jazuu-Kechuu Jailoo and return to the yurt camp.
Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt camp.
Day 7: Bokonbaevo – Bishkek
After breakfast, continue the journey back to Bishkek. On the way, visit Kyzyl-Tuu village, famous for its skilled yurt craftsmen.
Visit a local Kyrgyz family where traditional Boz Ui (yurt) is created by hand. Learn about the ancient techniques, cultural traditions, and craftsmanship behind this unique Kyrgyz dwelling.
After lunch in the village, continue to Bishkek. Arrival in Bishkek and end of the tour.
Included
- Transfers throughout the tour program
- Accommodation along the route (guesthouses, yurt camps, mountain lodge)
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners according to the itinerary
- Picnic lunches during trekking days
- Services of a professional tour guide
- Trekking through mountain valleys and alpine pastures
- Visit to the Petroglyph Museum in Cholpon-Ata
- экскурсия to the Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral in Karakol
- Visit to Altyn Arashan Gorge
- Visit to Jeti-Ögüz Gorge
- Excursion to Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyons
- Visit to Kyzyl-Tuu village and traditional yurt-making workshop
- Opportunity to relax in the Altyn Arashan hot springs
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Visa and consular fees (if required)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional and alcoholic beverages
- Activities not included in the tour program
- Entrance fees to additional sites not included in the itinerary
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
- Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff (optional)
- Transfers and services outside the tour program
