{"id":22452,"date":"2021-03-31T00:05:57","date_gmt":"2021-03-30T22:05:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/?page_id=22452"},"modified":"2026-07-08T20:10:38","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T18:10:38","slug":"issyk-kul-lake","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/overlanding-off-road-trip\/kyrgyzstan\/issyk-kul-lake\/","title":{"rendered":"Issyk-Kul"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section pac-dtocm-exclude preset--module--divi-section--505402cb-d90a-4b4f-8611-06a9369b7b6b\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--2d95c5c8-d1df-447f-a86b-34caf3964538\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--45d90a7d-78b9-4f54-bfb2-fc9c5a09678e\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h1>What to do around Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan<\/h1>\n<h2>All the information you need to discover Lake Issyk-Kul off the beaten track<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_1 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section preset--module--divi-section--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_1 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_1 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Lake Issyk-Kul, nicknamed <strong>\"the pearl of Central Asia\",<\/strong> has always been an important landmark in Kyrgyz culture. Thus, in the history of Kyrgyzstan, the shores of the lake have been a <strong>spiritual<\/strong> (sacred nature of the lake),<strong> commercial<\/strong> (Silk Road), <strong>pastoral<\/strong> (nomadism) and <strong>therapeutic<\/strong> (numerous sanatoriums) <strong>attraction<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, we give you some tips on how to discover these different aspects of the lake, off the beaten track!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you're planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan by van, 4x4, motorcycle or bicycle, <a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/overland-adventure-off-road-book\/explore-kyrgyzstan-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">our book EXPLORE KYRGYZSTAN<\/a> will be a great help.<\/li>\n<li>If you would like to rent a vehicle (4x4, van, motorcycle or bicycle) in Kyrgyzstan, here are <a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-kyrgyzstan\/\">our recommendations<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_2 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_0 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/overland-adventure-off-road-book\/explore-kyrgyzstan-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/travel-guidebook-explore-kyrgyzstan-eng-700x500px.jpg\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/travel-guidebook-explore-kyrgyzstan-eng-700x500px.jpg 700w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/travel-guidebook-explore-kyrgyzstan-eng-700x500px-480x343.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 700px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-233130\" title=\"travel-guide-book-explore-kyrgyzstan-en-700x500px\" alt=\"travel guide kyrgyzstan central asia roadbook silk road\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_2 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section preset--module--divi-section--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_2 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_3 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"pac-divi-table-of-contents-maker_0 pac-divi-table-of-contents-maker preset--module--pac-divi-table-of-contents-maker--default\"><div class=\"pac_dtoc_main_container\" data-allow_collapse_minimize=\"on\" data-allow_collapse_minimize_tablet=\"on\" data-allow_collapse_minimize_phone=\"on\" data-ss=\"2000ms\" data-sah=\"100px\" data-collapse_when_sticky=\"off\" data-collapse_on_mobile=\"off\" data-collapse_when_sticky_tablet=\"off\" data-collapse_when_sticky_phone=\"off\" data-skh=\"off\" data-mtocai=\"off\" data-mtocai_tablet=\"off\" data-mtocai_phone=\"off\" data-alh=\"off\" data-ds=\"open\" data-dst=\"open\" data-dsp=\"open\"><div class=\"pac_dtoc_title_area click_on click_tablet_on click_phone_on\"><div role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" id=\"pac_dtocm_title\" class=\"pac_dtoc_title\">Contents<\/div><button class=\"pac_dtoc_icon_responsive\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"pac_dtoc_body\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Contents\"><div class=\"pac_dtoc_opened_icon et-pb-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">2<\/div><div class=\"pac_dtoc_closed_icon et-pb-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">3<\/div><\/button><\/div><div role=\"navigation\" aria-labelledby=\"pac_dtocm_title\" class=\"pac_dtoc_body_area inside\"><div class=\"divi_table_of_contents\" role=\"tree\"><ul class=\"pac_dtoc_heading_level_2\" role=\"group\"><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#LakeIssykKulthepearlofCentralAsia\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#LakeIssykKulthepearlofCentralAsia\" id=\"LakeIssykKulthepearlofCentralAsia_toc_headding\">Lake Issyk-Kul, the pearl of Central Asia<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#DiscoverthelunarlandscapesofthesouthernshoreofLakeIssykkul\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#DiscoverthelunarlandscapesofthesouthernshoreofLakeIssykkul\" id=\"DiscoverthelunarlandscapesofthesouthernshoreofLakeIssykkul_toc_headding\">Discover the lunar landscapes of the southern shore of Lake Issyk-kul<\/a><\/div><ul class=\"pac_dtoc_heading_level_3\" role=\"group\"><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#NO\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#NO\" id=\"NO_toc_headding\"><\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Canyonofforgottenrivers\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#Canyonofforgottenrivers\" id=\"Canyonofforgottenrivers_toc_headding\">Canyon of forgotten rivers<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#JetiOguz\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#JetiOguz\" id=\"JetiOguz_toc_headding\">Jeti-Oguz<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#SkazkaorFairyTaleCanyon\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#SkazkaorFairyTaleCanyon\" id=\"SkazkaorFairyTaleCanyon_toc_headding\">Skazka or Fairy-Tale Canyon<\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Discovernomadicgamesandtraditions\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#Discovernomadicgamesandtraditions\" id=\"Discovernomadicgamesandtraditions_toc_headding\">Discover nomadic games and traditions<\/a><\/div><ul class=\"pac_dtoc_heading_level_3\" role=\"group\"><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Bokonbaevo\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#Bokonbaevo\" id=\"Bokonbaevo_toc_headding\">Bokonbaevo<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#KyzylTuu\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#KyzylTuu\" id=\"KyzylTuu_toc_headding\">Kyzyl-Tuu<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Eaglehunting\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#Eaglehunting\" id=\"Eaglehunting_toc_headding\">Eagle hunting<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#WorldNomadGamesinCholponAta\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#WorldNomadGamesinCholponAta\" id=\"WorldNomadGamesinCholponAta_toc_headding\">World Nomad Games in Cholpon Ata<\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#DiscoverthehistoricsitesofLakeIssykKul\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#DiscoverthehistoricsitesofLakeIssykKul\" id=\"DiscoverthehistoricsitesofLakeIssykKul_toc_headding\">Discover the historic sites of Lake Issyk-Kul<\/a><\/div><ul class=\"pac_dtoc_heading_level_3\" role=\"group\"><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#TheOrnekMuseum\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#TheOrnekMuseum\" id=\"TheOrnekMuseum_toc_headding\">The Ornek Museum<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#TheCholponAtamuseumandpetroglyphs\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#TheCholponAtamuseumandpetroglyphs\" id=\"TheCholponAtamuseumandpetroglyphs_toc_headding\">The Cholpon-Ata museum and petroglyphs<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#TheburialmoundsofSanTash\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#TheburialmoundsofSanTash\" id=\"TheburialmoundsofSanTash_toc_headding\">The burial mounds of San-Tash<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#TheTamgaTashTibetanpetroglyph\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#TheTamgaTashTibetanpetroglyph\" id=\"TheTamgaTashTibetanpetroglyph_toc_headding\">The Tamga-Tash Tibetan petroglyph<\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#ThemostbeautifulbeachesofLakeIssykKul\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#ThemostbeautifulbeachesofLakeIssykKul\" id=\"ThemostbeautifulbeachesofLakeIssykKul_toc_headding\">The most beautiful beaches of Lake Issyk-Kul<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#DiscovertheKarakolcattlemarket\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#DiscovertheKarakolcattlemarket\" id=\"DiscovertheKarakolcattlemarket_toc_headding\">Discover the Karakol cattle market<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_2\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Hikinginthemistymountains\" data-hl=\"2\"><\/span><a href=\"#Hikinginthemistymountains\" id=\"Hikinginthemistymountains_toc_headding\">Hiking in the misty mountains<\/a><\/div><ul class=\"pac_dtoc_heading_level_3\" role=\"group\"><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#LakeAlakul\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#LakeAlakul\" id=\"LakeAlakul_toc_headding\">Lake Ala-kul<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#KarakolValley\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#KarakolValley\" id=\"KarakolValley_toc_headding\">Karakol Valley<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#AltynArashanValley\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#AltynArashanValley\" id=\"AltynArashanValley_toc_headding\">Altyn-Arashan Valley<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#AkSuuValley\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#AkSuuValley\" id=\"AkSuuValley_toc_headding\">Ak-Suu Valley<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#Barskoonwaterfalls\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#Barskoonwaterfalls\" id=\"Barskoonwaterfalls_toc_headding\">Barskoon waterfalls<\/a><\/div><\/li><li class=\"pac_dtoc_li_heading_level_3\" role=\"treeitem\"><div role=\"presentation\"><span data-href=\"#TheJirgalanarea\" data-hl=\"3\"><\/span><a href=\"#TheJirgalanarea\" id=\"TheJirgalanarea_toc_headding\">The Jirgalan area<\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_4 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_1 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pays-couv-ext-eng-1.jpg\" width=\"591\" height=\"319\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pays-couv-ext-eng-1.jpg 591w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pays-couv-ext-eng-1-480x259.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 591px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-233875\" title=\"map Kyrgyzstan central asia\" alt=\"kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country in the middle of central asia\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_3 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"issyk\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_5 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Lake Issyk-Kul, the pearl of Central Asia<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>From its <strong>warm, salty waters<\/strong> to its <strong>golden sandy beaches<\/strong>, only the surrounding snow-capped peaks betray the true nature of Lake Issyk-Kul, nicknamed <strong>the \"Kyrgyz Sea\".<\/strong> Perched at an altitude of 1,609 m, Issyk-Kul is <strong>one of the world's largest high-mountain lakes<\/strong>. Bordered to the north by the Kungey Ala-Too mountains and to the south by the Terskey Ala-Too mountains, it is fed by the hundreds of rivers that flow down these mountains.<\/p>\n<p>Benefiting from a <strong>temperate microclimate<\/strong>, the shores of the lake have attracted mankind for millennia. The <strong>many archaeological sites<\/strong> scattered around the lake are a reminder of the region's prehistoric and ancient civilizations.<\/p>\n<p>Today, <strong>a well-maintained asphalt road leads around the lake<\/strong>. In contrast to the north bank, which saw the emergence of numerous tourist infrastructures during the Soviet era, the south bank remains quite wild and offers a lively and vibrant nomadic cultural experience.<\/p>\n<p>Created in 1948, the Issyk-Kul Lake Reserve is one of the oldest in Central Asia. The reserve's fauna includes <strong>over a hundred species of birds, which can be observed quite easily along the lake's shores<\/strong>. Some of the lake's wetlands are important wintering sites for migratory waterfowl. Notable waterbird species include the endangered white-headed duck, as well as the macroule coot and red-crested pochard, which are fairly common in the area. You can also spot gulls and rarer birds such as pink flamingos and whooper swans.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_4 et_pb_row et_pb_row_3-4_1-4 et_block_row et_block_row_3-4_1-4 et_animated preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_6 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_2 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/carte-touristique-kirghizistan-road-trip.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"roads and tracks in Kyrgyzstan on a topographic map. All indicated tourist sites\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/carte-touristique-kirghizistan-road-trip.jpg\" width=\"1000\" height=\"698\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/carte-touristique-kirghizistan-road-trip.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/carte-touristique-kirghizistan-road-trip-980x684.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/carte-touristique-kirghizistan-road-trip-480x335.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-21148\" title=\"tourist-map-kyrgyzstan-road-trip\" alt=\"roads and tracks in Kyrgyzstan on a topographic map. All indicated tourist sites\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_7 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_3 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/plan-and-tourist-map\/kyrgyzstan-travel-a2-foldable-maps\/\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pliable-ENG-cover-site.jpg\" width=\"234\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pliable-ENG-cover-site.jpg 234w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/carte-pliable-ENG-cover-site-140x300.jpg 140w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 234px) 100vw, 234px\" class=\"wp-image-233826\" title=\"folding-card-EN-cover-site\" alt=\"map of kyrgyzstan tourist sites relief and permit area\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_module et_pb_button_module_wrapper et_pb_button_0_wrapper\"><a class=\"et_pb_button_0 et_pb_button et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\" href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/plan-and-tourist-map\/kyrgyzstan-travel-a2-foldable-maps\/\">Buy card<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_5 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"lunaires\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_8 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Discover the lunar landscapes of the southern shore of Lake Issyk-kul<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3><\/h3>\n<h3>Canyon of forgotten rivers<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Between Kyzyl-Tuu and Bokonbaevo<\/strong>, a small track leads along the lake shore to explore the lunar landscapes of the Canyon of Forgotten Rivers, named after the hundreds of <strong>dried-up rivers that have carved out the rock over the centuries<\/strong>. A few succulents and multicolored flowers dot the landscape. From time to time, a small lizard crosses the dusty road and the eagle circles high in the sky in search of prey. If you're lucky, you may come across some camels. It's possible to <strong>bivouac by the lake<\/strong> and swim along small <strong>deserted beaches<\/strong>. More information on this track can be found in the book <a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/overland-adventure-off-road-book\/explore-kyrgyzstan-travel-guide\/\">EXPLORE KIRGHIZISTAN<\/a>, track 5.<\/p>\n<h3>Jeti-Oguz<\/h3>\n<p>The splendid<strong> red sandstone cliffs of Jeti-Oguz<\/strong> or<strong> The Seven Bulls<\/strong>attract many visitors. Crowded during the day, we recommend a visit early in the morning or at the end of the day, when the light makes the cliffs glow. For more tranquillity, we recommend exploring the neighbouring valley: see track 9 in the book <a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/overland-adventure-off-road-book\/explore-kyrgyzstan-travel-guide\/\">EXPLORE KIRGHIZISTAN<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>After about twenty kilometers, the Jeti-Oguz valley widens into a vast summer pasture (jailoo) nicknamed the Valley of Flowers, because in spring it's covered with thousands of wild flowers: tulips, poppies, crocuses, and so on. The valley is also famous for its mushrooms!<\/p>\n<h3>Skazka or Fairy-Tale Canyon<\/h3>\n<p>Also known as <strong>Fairy Tale canyon<\/strong>, <strong>Skazka canyon<\/strong> offers beautiful walks between <strong>red sandstone cliffs sculpted by erosion<\/strong>. Access to the valley is about 8 km from the village of Tosor. Access to the site costs 50 som per person. It's <strong>best to go early in the morning or late in the day<\/strong> to avoid the crowds and the sometimes stifling heat of the summer months. The lights will be all the more beautiful!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_6 et_pb_row et_block_row et_animated preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_9 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_4 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-8.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"canyon of the forgotten rivers near bokonbaevo along Lake Issyk Kul, featured in the book Explore Kirghizistan\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-8.jpg\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-8.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-8-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-8-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22149\" title=\"lake-Issyk-Kul-kyrgyzstan-8\" alt=\"canyon of the forgotten rivers near bokonbaevo along Lake Issyk Kul, featured in the book Explore Kirghizistan\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_7 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"jeux\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_10 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Discover nomadic games and traditions<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>Bokonbaevo<\/h3>\n<p>Bokonbaevo is<strong> the most important town on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul<\/strong> between Balykchy and Karakol. Here you'll find all amenities: shops, restaurants, inns, banks, petrol stations and garages. This is also where you can organize various tourist activities such as <strong>eagle-hunting demonstrations<\/strong> or <strong>traditional carpet-making (shyrdak<\/strong>).<strong> The Birds of Prey Festival is held in August<\/strong>. If you're visiting in July, the<strong>Teskey-Jeek Ethno-festival<\/strong> is just a few kilometers away in the nearby town of Ton. To find out the dates, program and prices of the various festivals, you can request information directly from Bokonbaevo's tourist agencies.<\/p>\n<h3>Kyzyl-Tuu<\/h3>\n<p>While it's true that there are few architectural remains in Kyrgyzstan, the long tradition of yurts is still very much alive, and the secret of their manufacture is revealed at Kyzyl-Tuu. It's in this thriving little village that craftsmen make many of the country's traditional yurts. You can <strong>visit one of these workshops or take part in yurt assembly\/disassembly activities<\/strong>. <strong>In March, Kyzyl-Tuu hosts the Kyrgyz National Game Festival<\/strong>, featuring traditional music concerts, eagle-hunting demonstrations and nomadic games.<\/p>\n<h3>Eagle hunting<\/h3>\n<p>Eagle hunting is a <strong>tradition that has been handed down from father to son for centuries<\/strong>. Once practiced to acquire food and furs during the harsh winter months, this form of hunting almost disappeared during the Soviet era. Only <strong>a few dozen eagles (berkutchi) are still hunted in Kyrgyzstan<\/strong>. They promote their art through tourism and traditional nomadic festivals. Respected as the guardians of nomadic traditions by the Kyrgyz, they are also a source of inspiration for the Kyrgyz.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ask at the Bokonbaevo agencies about attending a demonstration<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>World Nomad Games in Cholpon Ata<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>World Nomad Games<\/strong> is an international competition showcasing nomadic sports not represented in the Olympic Games, such as Kok-Boru, horse racing, horse archery, horse wrestling and more. Teams from all over the world, particularly from Central Asia and the Middle East, are invited to take part in the games traditionally held in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan.<\/p>\n<p>Much more than a simple competition, this event is <strong>the largest nomadic gathering in the world<\/strong>. The festival also features <strong>traditional dance and music performances, eagle hunting demonstrations, yurt building and more<\/strong>. A real<span> <\/span><strong>a journey to the heart of nomadic culture!  <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The first three editions of the World Nomad Games were held in the town of Cholpon-Ata. The 2020 edition, due to take place in Turkey, has been postponed due to the Covid-19 epidemic.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Equestrian competitions are regularly held at the Cholpon-Ata racecourse<\/strong>. It's possible to attend!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_8 et_pb_row et_block_row et_animated preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_11 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_5 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-9.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"eagle hunting demonstration near bokonbaevo, near lake Issyk Kul in kyrgyzstan\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-9.jpg\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-9.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-9-980x654.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-9-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22150\" title=\"lake-Issyk-Kul-kyrgyzstan-9\" alt=\"eagle hunting demonstration near bokonbaevo, near lake Issyk Kul in kyrgyzstan\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_9 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"historiques\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_12 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Discover the historic sites of Lake Issyk-Kul<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>The Ornek Museum<\/h3>\n<p>The village of Ornek is home to a small museum where you can discover some <strong>interesting archaeological finds<\/strong>: ceramics, utensils, cavalry equipment, traditional clothing, carpets and more.<\/p>\n<h3>The Cholpon-Ata museum and petroglyphs<\/h3>\n<p>This medium-sized town of 8,000 inhabitants welcomes many Russian and Kazakh tourists every year, attracted by the few hotel complexes and sanatoriums built on the shores of the lake during the Soviet era. If you're passing through, don't miss the<strong> Cholpon-Ata museum<\/strong>, where you'll find <strong>a wealth of ancient artifacts from Kyrgyz and pre-Kyrgyz nomadic cultures<\/strong>: tools, carpets, jewelry, musical instruments and more. For the modest sum of 200 soms, you can also hire a guide to accompany you to the petroglyph site to the north of the town. This remarkable archaeological site is home to<strong> hundreds of petroglyphs, the oldest of which date back to the 8th century BC.<\/strong> The engravings and paintings depict scenes of life and hunting, as well as animals and shamanic rituals.<\/p>\n<h3>The burial mounds of San-Tash<\/h3>\n<p>Close to the Karkyra valley, near the San-Tash pass (2,195 m), lies the San-Tash archaeological site:<strong> dozens of tumuli or Kourgans dating back to the 6th century BC<\/strong>. as well as<strong>a strange stone mound 4 m high and 56 m wide called \"San-Tash\"<\/strong>, which means \"to count the stones\". According to legend, this work dates back to the 15th century, the time of Tamerlane's military campaigns. As Tamerlane led an attack against China, he ordered each of his soldiers to bring a stone from Issyk-Kul to measure the size of his army. It is said that a wise old man, who wanted to teach Tamerlane a lesson about the price of war, suggested that he order his men to pick up a stone from the heap on their return from war. The remaining pile of stones represented the number of soldiers who had died during his campaigns.<\/p>\n<h3><span>The Tamga-Tash Tibetan petroglyph<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A rare millennium-old proof of the spread of Tibetan Buddhism to Central Asia, this <strong>stone block carved with the incantation Om Mani Padme Hum in Tibetan script<\/strong> is not easy to find. From the village of Tamga, follow the river of the same name for around 5 km before you find it.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_10 et_pb_row et_pb_row_3-4_1-4 et_block_row et_block_row_3-4_1-4 preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_13 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module et_pb_text_align_center preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>What is a Tumulus and a Kourgan? A tumulus is a large artificial pile of earth or stones raised above a burial site, sometimes surmounted by a monument or trophy. Kurganes are tumuli found in Russia and Central Asia. They were left by the nomadic populations who lived in this region, notably the Scythians between the 6th and 4th centuries BC,<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_14 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_6 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02.png\" width=\"903\" height=\"903\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02.png 903w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02-480x480.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 903px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-21430\" title=\"crocoloup-doigt-02\" alt=\"logo ountravela\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_11 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"plages\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_15 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>The most beautiful beaches of Lake Issyk-Kul<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>As the lake lies at an altitude of 1,607 m, <strong>the water can reach 24\u00b0C in summer<\/strong>! The lake never freezes in winter, hence the name Issyk-Kul, which means \"the warm lake\".<\/p>\n<p>There are <strong>numerous resorts built during the Soviet era on the north shore of the lake. <\/strong>The most famous are Cholpon-Ata and Bosteri. Here you'll find large resorts offering all-inclusive packages that Russian and Kazakh tourists love! Avoid this if you don't want to get caught between two towels on a crowded beach!<\/p>\n<p>If you prefer <strong>quieter beaches<\/strong>, we recommend <strong>Tosor or Tamchy<\/strong>. The water is clear and the sand fine. Many Kyrgyz families come here in summer.<\/p>\n<p>And if you want to discover small, deserted beaches, we invite you to take a look at track 5 in our book <a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/shop\/overland-adventure-off-road-book\/explore-kyrgyzstan-travel-guide\/\">EXPLORE KIRGHIZISTAN<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_12 et_pb_row et_block_row et_animated preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_16 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_7 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"bivouac on lake issyk kyl, read more in the book explore kyrgyzstan\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2.jpg\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2-1280x853.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2-980x653.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-2-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1920px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22148\" title=\"lake-Issyk-Kul-kyrgyzstan-2\" alt=\"bivouac on lake issyk kyl, read more in the book explore kyrgyzstan\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_13 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"march\u00e9\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_17 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Discover the Karakol cattle market<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>The town of Karakol is the main base camp for tourists setting out to conquer the Tian Shan Mountains. Here you'll find numerous travel agencies, inns, restaurants and other amenities. Don't miss the beautiful Orthodox church, built entirely of wood! The Karakol cattle market is held<strong> every Sunday morning at dawn<\/strong>. This weekly market brings together the region's livestock farmers, who come to sell their cows, sheep, horses and more.  <strong>It's a real change of scenery!<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_14 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\" id=\"rando\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_18 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Hiking in the misty mountains<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>The southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul is bordered by the Terskey Ala-Too range. <strong>Terskey Ala-Too means \"misty mountains\" or \"mountains in the shade\", as opposed to Kungey Ala-Too, \"sunny mountains\",<\/strong> which lie on the north shore of the lake on the border with Kazakhstan. Reminiscent of Switzerland in places, these mountains <strong>abound with hiking trails, between pine forests, alpine meadows, lakes and glaciers.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Many of our hikes are easily accessible and self-guided<\/strong>. But beware: there are <strong>no signs on the trails<\/strong>, and if there are, they're in Russian. For hiking maps, contact the <a href=\"https:\/\/tuk.kg\/?lang=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan<\/a>. Alternatively, you can use applications such as Maps.me or wikiloc. <strong>If you're going to be in the mountains, especially for several days, we strongly recommend that you take a guide with you<\/strong>. You'll find local guides in the many agencies in Karakol, which is the main base camp for tourists setting out to conquer the Tian Shan mountains.<\/p>\n<h3>Lake Ala-kul<\/h3>\n<p>Nestled at an altitude of 3,560 m in the Terskey Ala-Too range between the Karakol and Altyn-Arashan valleys, this <strong>sumptuous glacial lake<\/strong> is<strong> a popular destination for hikers<\/strong> exploring the region. The trek to Lake Ala-Kul can take <strong>between 2 and 4 days<\/strong>, depending on the route taken, and requires good physical fitness. If you're not used to high mountains, we recommend that you go with a guide (easily available in Karakol).<\/p>\n<h3>Karakol Valley<\/h3>\n<p>The Karakol valley is famous for its ski resort, the Karakol Ski resort, one of the largest in the country with over 20 km of pistes. The start of the hike to Lake Ala-Kul is also at the end of this valley. Just follow the Karakol River to a small wooden bridge.<\/p>\n<h3>Altyn-Arashan Valley<\/h3>\n<p>The Altyn-Arashan valley is the starting point for many treks in the Terskey Ala-Too, particularly to Lake Ala-Kul. You'll also find plenty of hot springs, ideal after a long hike! There are not only paying pools but also free natural springs, which are not easy to find!<\/p>\n<h3>Ak-Suu Valley<\/h3>\n<p>At the entrance to the Altyn-Arashan valley, on the left, is the entrance to the Ak-Suu valley. Popular with locals for its many thermal springs and sanatorium, it is also a great place for walking. The pools are equipped and access is subject to a charge.<\/p>\n<h3>Barskoon waterfalls<\/h3>\n<p>Around 20 km from the village of Barskoon in the valley, there are some beautiful waterfalls along the road. A short one-hour walk takes you up to a viewpoint overlooking the three waterfalls that follow one another in the gorge. Watch out, it's going up! You'll probably be offered the chance to climb it on horseback. At the foot of the waterfall, you'll find a number of yurts for refreshments. The site is very popular with tourists.<\/p>\n<h3>The Jirgalan area<\/h3>\n<p>This small village at the foot of the mountains is a well-known base camp for hikers in the region. You'll find a number of inns and guides to accompany you on horseback or on foot through the region's mountains. The road to get there is in very good condition.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_15 et_pb_row et_pb_row_3-4_1-4 et_block_row et_block_row_3-4_1-4 preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_19 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module et_pb_text_align_center preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>\"A millennium ago, caravanners and their silk cargoes crossed the region on their way to China. It was also here that explorers of our century such as Ella Maillart and Sylvain Tesson travelled on horseback.\"<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_20 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_8 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02.png\" width=\"903\" height=\"903\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02.png 903w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-doigt-02-480x480.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 903px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-21430\" title=\"crocoloup-doigt-02\" alt=\"logo ountravela\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_16 et_pb_row et_block_row et_animated preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_21 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_9 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"Barskoon waterfall south of Lake Issyk-Kul, a pleasant little hike on the way to the Arabel valley\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1-1280x1600.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1-980x1225.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cascade-barskoon-kirghizistan-1-480x600.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22162\" title=\"cascade-barskoon-kyrgyzstan-1\" alt=\"Barskoon waterfall south of Lake Issyk-Kul, a pleasant little hike on the way to the Arabel valley\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_10 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-2.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"Chong Kyzyl Suu valley south of Lake Issyk-Kul\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-2.jpg\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-2.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-2-980x654.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-2-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22164\" title=\"mountains-terskey-ala-too-kyrgyzstan-2\" alt=\"Chong Kyzyl Suu valley south of Lake Issyk-Kul\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_22 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_11 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-1.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"chong kyzyl suu valley south of Lake Issyk Kul\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-1.jpg\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-1.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-1-980x654.jpg 980w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22163\" title=\"mountains-terskey-ala-too-kyrgyzstan-1\" alt=\"chong kyzyl suu valley south of Lake Issyk Kul\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_12 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-3.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"Barskoon waterfall south of Lake Issyk-Kul, a pleasant little hike on the way to the Arabel valley\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-3.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"625\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-3.jpg 500w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/monts-terskey-ala-too-kirghizistan-3-480x600.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 500px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-22168\" title=\"mountains-terskey-ala-too-kyrgyzstan-3\" alt=\"Barskoon waterfall south of Lake Issyk-Kul, a pleasant little hike on the way to the Arabel valley\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_3 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section preset--module--divi-section--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_17 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_23 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_13 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-sacados-03.png\" width=\"903\" height=\"903\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-sacados-03.png 903w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/logo\/crocoloup-sacados-03-480x480.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 903px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-21431\" title=\"crocoloup-sacados-03\" alt=\"\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module et_pb_text_align_center preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>\"If you have any questions, feel free to join our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/overland.kyrgyzstan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">facebook discussion group<\/a> dedicated to exploring Kyrgyzstan. You can also share your experience of the country and\/or discover photos taken by other travellers.<\/p>\n<p>If you liked this article, help us and share it with your friends!  <code><\/code><code><div class=\"addtoany_shortcode\"><div class=\"a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list\" data-a2a-url=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/overlanding-off-road-trip\/kyrgyzstan\/issyk-kul-lake\/\" data-a2a-title=\"Issyk-Kul\"><a class=\"a2a_button_facebook\" href=\"https:\/\/www.addtoany.com\/add_to\/facebook?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fountravela.com%2Fen%2Foverlanding-off-road-trip%2Fkyrgyzstan%2Fissyk-kul-lake%2F&amp;linkname=Issyk-Kul\" title=\"Facebook\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><a class=\"a2a_button_twitter\" href=\"https:\/\/www.addtoany.com\/add_to\/twitter?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fountravela.com%2Fen%2Foverlanding-off-road-trip%2Fkyrgyzstan%2Fissyk-kul-lake%2F&amp;linkname=Issyk-Kul\" title=\"Twitter\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><a 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noreferrer\">Pinterest<\/a> to find it more easily ?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_14 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"750\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan.jpg 500w, https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/lac-issyk-kul-kirghizistan-480x720.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 500px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-21810\" title=\"lake-issyk-kul-kyrgyzstan\" alt=\"discover lake issyk kul off the beaten track, the pearl of Kyrgyzstan\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_4 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section preset--module--divi-section--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_18 et_pb_row et_block_row preset--module--divi-row--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_24 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-kyrgyzstan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4837 aligncenter size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/ountravela.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icones-rond-moto-marron.png\" alt=\"logo ountravela road trip\" width=\"70\" height=\"70\" title=\"\"><br \/>Book an activity<br \/><\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_25 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module 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