Ala Köl Lake Trekk

Hi everyone

One of the most amazing and rewarding trekks i have done in my life so far is the one to the secret Ala Köl Lake in east Kyrgyzstan, close to Karakol.

The lonely planet gives little information about the trekk so i decided to post more detailed info about it after my experience.

Cheapest place to stay in Karakol would be Yak Tours (mentioned in the Lonely planet), room per 300 som and camping for 70 som. The jeep ride they provide all the way to their shelter in Altyn Arashan is worth it, for around 25 $ the jeep, and Nikolai is lots of fun and an astonishingly skilled driver.

There is NO accomodation during the trekk so bring your own tent/sleeping bag/cooking stove

First of all, i definetely suggest to do the trekk in the opposite way to the recommended in the book, so from Altyn Arashan valley to Karakol valley, and NOT the other way, which is extremely confusing and very strenous way uphill.

Day 1: Trekk up to the Ala Köl lake from Altyn Arashan. It's so so marked, try to follow previous footprints if in doubt. You can decide to cross the pass (3.860 m) in one day or camp right before (3.600m) the extremely steep acces to pass itself in a plateau infront. If you leave late i suggest the second, since view of the lake are much better in the morning having a superb view from the top of the ridge and be aware that the way down from the pass is through a very loose scree that need some time and patience to negociate.

Day 2: Wether you camped before of after the pass, is worthy to spend some time around the pristine lake, and even make a short trekk to a heart shaped small lake in the east shore. When you go on, make sure NOT to walk along the lake shore since this trail leads to a dead end and you will have to wether do some climbing or .....some swimming ....Follow the elevated trail overlooking the lake instead. Next is a really steep profussion of screes and narrow trails that lead all the way to Sirota camp, a wooden shed with fireplace and some camping spots, overnight here.

Day 3: Following the Karakol river along the right shore, walk all the way to the ski base and hitch a ride back to Karakol. (150 som)

I really recommend to drop by the Tourist Information Centre in Karakol to acquire a propper map since the trail is really confusing and any help when in doubt makes things safer and easier

Enjoy this beautiful trekk!

I couldn't agree with you more!! We did the hike about 3 wks ago and it was awesome. We did it through CBT, so had a guide and porters who carried our camping gear and food, supplied our own sleeping bags. I don't think it matters with way you do it, but definitely put it on your itinerary!! We did it over 3 days 2 nights, but if time permits, I think 4 days/3 nights would give more time to enjoy the experience.
We had 2 wonderful weeks in Kyrgyzstan exploring the Northern part. Another highlight for us was the Horse trek to Son Kul. The scenery is amazing. Tash Rabat is also worth a visit and do a horsetrek/ yurt stay if time permits.
We found it a great country to visit, would have been lost with out LP!! Such a great resource. Shared taxis are cheap and easy way to get around. The people are friendly and helpful, homestays the way to go. Pls anyone considering going, just go.
No problems getting visas in the airport.
Kyrgyzstan, you have a special place in heart!!