Explore the spectacular Tian-Shan Mountains with it’s magnificent alpine lake Ala-Kul and gorgeous Jeti-Oguz Valley on this 7-days trek. Marvel at crystal clear glacier fed lakes and streams, giant boulders, and alpine meadows filled with herds of grazing sheep and cattle. Experience a taste of local life while walking through villages and meeting people along the way.
Our expert trekking guides will take you on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful Tian Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan.
Highlights from the Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek include:
- Stunning views of Ala Kul Lake (3,500 m), camping on the shore of the lake to discover the full beauty of the lake
- Beautiful mountain vistas crossing Telety Pass (3,800 m) and Ala Kul Pass (3,900 m) filled with alpine lakes, endless peaks of Tian Shan
- Jaw-dropping views of Oguz Bashy Peak (5,170 m) know as Boris Yeltsin Peak now
- Diverse landscapes, from turquoise alpine lakes to lush green valleys
- Sleeping in a traditional yurt where you’ll have an opportunity to meet Kyrgyz shepherds, learn about traditional nomadic culture, and enjoy hearty home-cooked meals
- Small Group Travel join other fellow travelers to share the price and make it more adventures
- A commitment to community tourism so that your tour will benefit local communities and families in the Tian Shan Mountains.
Detailed Tour Information about the Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek
Tour Overview: Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek
Destination: Jeti – Oguz Valley, Ala Kul Lake, Altyn Arashan hot springs, Karakol City
Category: Trekking
Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Trekking distance: 80 km
Service Level: Standard
Physical Rating: Moderate to Demanding depending on physical fitness
Max elevation: 3950 m
Min elevation: 2450 m
Season: July to mid-September
Start / End: Bishkek City
Itinerary: Bishkek – Jeti-Oguz Valley – Telety Pass – Ala Kul Lake – Altyn Arashan – Karakol City – Bishkek
Map of the Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek
Blue – transfer from Bishkek to Yurt camp Redbrown – hiking route
DAY 1: TRANSFER FROM BISHKEK TO KOK-JAIYK VALLEY
Driving distance/time: 380 km, 6 hours
Hiking distance/time: 7 km, 2 hours
Depart from Bishkek toward the Kok-Jaiyk Nature Reserve in the picturesque Jeti-Oguz Valley. The journey follows the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, offering beautiful views of its turquoise waters, before turning into the valley. Along the way, make a short stop to admire the famous Jeti-Oguz Canyons – seven striking red rock formations that stand out dramatically against the green hills.
Continue a few kilometers up the valley until reaching Kok-Jaiyk, a vast alpine meadow surrounded by evergreen forests and towering peaks.
After settling into your yurt, take a short hike to waterfall, experience the calm of mountain life and observe local herders going about their daily routines.
Accommodation: shared yurts in Golden yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Meals included: lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, traditional Russian-style sauna (banya), and western-style toilets
DAY 2: HIKE TO THE FOOT OF OGUZ BASHY PEAK (BORIS YELTSIN PEAK) AND TREK TO TELETY PASS CAMP
Hiking distance/time: 18 km, 7-8 hours
Ascent / Descent: 935 m, 350 m
After breakfast, begin your hike towards the stunning foot of Oguz Bashy (Boris Yeltsin) Peak (5,170 m), one of the most majestic mountains of the Terskey Ala-Too range. The trail gradually ascends through evergreen forests and alpine meadows where herds of horses and yaks graze peacefully. Upon reaching the base of the peak (around 2,600 m), take a break to enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by dramatic glacial views and pristine mountain air.
After lunch, continue your trek deeper into the valley as the path climbs steadily toward Telety Pass. The final section of the trail offers wide-open panoramas of rocky ridges and snow-capped peaks. Arrive at your tent camp near the foot of Telety Pass (around 3,000 m) in the late afternoon. Settle in and enjoy a warm dinner amidst the serene alpine landscape.
Accommodation: tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets
DAY 3: CROSS TELETY PASS TO KARAKOL GORGE
Trekking distance/time: 16 km, 6-7 hours
Ascent / Descent: 650 m, 1200 m
Start your ascent toward Telety Pass (3,770 m). The trail gradually climbs through rocky terrain and alpine meadows dotted with edelweiss and other mountain flowers. As you gain altitude, magnificent views open up over the surrounding ridges and valleys. The final stretch to the pass is steeper but rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range.
After resting at the top and taking photos, begin your descent into the Karakol Gorge. The path winds down along a river valley, passing through lush alpine meadows where marmots peek from their burrows and eagles soar above. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the vast mountain scenery before continuing to your campsite nestled among spruce trees at around 2,550 meters.
Accommodation: tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets
DAY 4: HIKE TO THE FOOT OF KARAKOL PEAK
Trekking distance/time: 15 km, 6 hours
Ascent / Descent: 520 m, 520 m
Set off for a day hike toward the foot of the majestic Karakol Peak (5,216 m), one of the highest and most impressive peaks in the Terskey Ala-Too Range. The trail follows a scenic route along the river, gradually ascending through meadows filled with wildflowers and framed by dense spruce forests.
As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up, revealing a breathtaking panorama of rocky ridges and glaciers. Upon reaching the viewpoint near the foot of Karakol Peak (around 3,070 m), take a break to enjoy your picnic lunch while admiring the towering snow-covered slopes and the serene alpine atmosphere.
After soaking in the views and taking photos, begin your descent back to the tent camp along the same trail. The return walk offers another chance to enjoy the tranquility of the gorge and spot wildlife such as marmots or mountain goats. Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon, relax, and enjoy a hearty dinner by the campfire surrounded by mountain silence.
Accommodation: Tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets
DAY 5: HIKE TO ALA KUL LAKE
Trekking distance/time: 13 km, 6-7 hours
Ascent / Descent: 1050 m, 200 m
After breakfast, continue your trek deeper into the mountains toward the breathtaking Ala-Kul Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Kyrgyzstan. The trail begins with a steady climb along the Karakol Gorge, following a mountain river and passing through lush spruce forests and blooming meadows. As you ascend higher, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with rugged cliffs and snow-covered peaks rising around you.
After a picnic lunch on the way, the trail gets steeper during the final ascent to the lake. Upon reaching Ala-Kul (3,560 m), you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of its turquoise waters framed by sharp ridgelines and glaciers. Spend some time walking along the lakeshore and taking in the tranquil atmosphere of this remote alpine paradise.
Enjoy a warm dinner at the tent camp as the sun sets behind the mountains, painting the lake in shades of gold and blue.
Accommodation: Tents (2 people in a tent)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 100 KGS), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), no hot shower, outdoor toilets
DAY 6: ALA KUL LAKE TO ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY OVER ALA KUL PASS
Trekking distance/time: 17 km, 7-8 hours
Ascent / Descent: 590 m,1550 m
Begin the challenging but rewarding ascent to Ala-Kul Pass (3,900 m). The trail climbs steeply above the lake, offering ever-expanding views of the turquoise waters below and the snow-capped peaks surrounding it. As you approach the top, take your time to rest and admire the magnificent panorama – the Terskey Ala-Too range stretches endlessly, with rugged summits and glaciers glistening in the morning sun.
After reaching the pass, enjoy a well-deserved break and take in the spectacular views before starting your long descent into the Altyn Arashan Valley. The trail winds down through rocky slopes and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, gradually leading into a lush valley framed by dense spruce forests.
Arrive in the picturesque Altyn Arashan Valley (2,450 m) by late afternoon. Known for its natural hot springs and serene atmosphere, this valley is one of the most relaxing spots of your trek. Settle into a cozy yurt camp, take a refreshing dip in the hot springs, and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner surrounded by mountain tranquility.
Accommodation: shared yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), solar panels (you can charge your phones until 9:00 p.m.), hot shower, hot spring pools, and western-style toilets
DAY 7: HIKE FROM ALTYN ARASHAN TO AK-SUU AND TRANSFER TO BISHKEK
Driving distance/time: 450 km, 7-8 hours
Trekking distance/time: 15 km, 4-5 hours
Descent: 850m
After breakfast, begin your final day’s hike through the scenic Altyn Arashan Valley. The trail follows the river downstream, passing through pine forests, open meadows, and clusters of traditional wooden cabins used by local shepherds in summer. Enjoy the peaceful rhythm of nature as you walk along the gently descending path, with the sound of rushing water and birds echoing through the valley.
Take short breaks to admire the panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, including the striking Palatka (Tent) Peak, before arriving in Ak-Suu village (1,700 m) around midday. Here, your vehicle will be waiting for you.
Drive to Karakol City and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the cozy local cafés or restaurants. After lunch, continue your journey back to Bishkek along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, passing picturesque mountain and lake views along the way. Arrive in Bishkek in the evening, marking the end of your memorable trek through the Terskey Ala-Too Mountains.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Price for the Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek Guided Tour
| Number of people | 2 | 3 | 4-5 | 6-7 | 8-9 | 10 |
| Price per person in USD | 1625 | 1350 | 1150 | 1100 | 1020 | 970 |
Included in Tour Price:
- English-speaking trekking guide
- Yurt camp 3 nights (Shared with 4-5 people)
- Tents (shared with 2 people)
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary (All the meals are prepared in established camps except for lunch)
- Transport from/to Bishkek
- Personal meals
- Sleeping mats
*Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian/vegan or if you have food allergies.
Not Included in the Tour Price:
- Hotel and meals in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan before and after the tour ends
- Men porter to carry your luggage (You will carry your personal belongings like clothes, sleeping bag)
- Tour Guide on transfer days from/to Bishkek
- Sleeping bag
- Drinking water
- Alcoholic drinks
- Services outside of the standard program
- Tips
- Travel and Health Insurance
- Flights or other domestic/international transport
Summer 2026 Group Tours are open for booking!
Lock in your trip with a $200 deposit now. Terms and conditions
If the following dates do not suit your travel plans, please contact us by email or WhatsApp. We will post a new tour with your dates and try to collect more people to join you to share the costs. Or you can check out our other Kyrgyzstan trekking group tours.
| Tour Name | Dates | Available Spots | Booking and Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | 01 - 07 July 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 2 | 09 - 15 July 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 3 | 17 - 23 July 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 4 | 25 - 31 July 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 5 | 02 - 08 August 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 6 | 10 - 16 August 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 7 | 18 - 24 August 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 8 | 26 August - 01 September 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 9 | 03 - 09 September 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
| Group 10 | 11 - 17 September 2026 | 10 spots available | Book with $200 |
Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek Photo Gallery
Reviews of our Trekking and Hiking Tours in Kyrgyzstan
We undertook a modified 14 day ‘Epic Kyrgyzstan Trek’ in the Tian Shan Mountains and the Pamir Alay Mountains with Visit Alay. We went as a father-daughter pair, with a tailor-made itinerary, and everything about the trek (with but a few hiccups) was exceptional. We recommend Visit Alay and their products and service unreservedly.
Our trek was in 3 parts.
Part 1 was a trek in the Tian Shan Mountains. Our route was Bishkek-Karakol- Karakol Gorge Campsite- Ala Kul Lake- Altyn Arashan Valley via Ala Kul Pass (4000m). All aspects – pickups, transport, accommodation and support crews – were exceptionally well-organised. It was arduous but so rewarding; the scenery is breathtaking. One of us (dad; age 70!) was a bit slow, but our guides and porters were very understanding and helpful.
Part 2 was a combination of driving and resting. We had two days and two nights at Bel Tam yurt camp on the shores of Lake Issyk Kul, resting and swimming. Internet connections were excellent, so it was a great chance to catch up with family and friends. We then had two nights at Song Kul Lake (3000m). Thence onto Osh via Karzaman and Moldo Pass by car.
Part 3 was a 3-day ‘Be a Nomad Horse Trek’, which was tailor-made for us. Two days were on horseback, and the third day a rest day. Overnight was in yurts with mountain families, who looked after us exceptionally well. Day 1 we left Osh early for Gulcha, and then saddled up for a 5-hour journey to Tepshi Yurt Camp. Day 2 was a 5-hour ride over Airy Bell Pass to Sary Oyi Village/Yurt camp, where we spent 2 nights. We spent our third day walking in the mountains around Sary Oyi (Germe peak; 3000m) and playing Uno with the family! Then back to Osh for a flight back to The Netherlands.
We had to modify our itinerary as one of us (Richard, the dad!) had mild altitude sickness during Part 1, going over the Ala Kul pass at ca. 4000m. As a consequence, we decided not to risk the scheduled part 3 – the trek from Osh-Kojokelen Village to Beshkol Camp and over Sary Mogol Pass and Travellers Pass, and back to Osh, as this involved two passes at 4300m and 4100m. So we organised with Visit Alay HQ to do a 2-day horse trek, with the additional day in nature at the Sary Oi yurt camp. Rearranging our itinerary, and all the consequent questions we had about accommodation and pickups, was never a problem. All of our questions/requests answered swiftly by the team at Alay.
One of us (Emma, the daughter) had specialised dietary requirements (coeliac/gluten-free) and this was accommodated as much as possible. The country is varied in terms of safety for coeliacs, and the hardest part was in restaurants. However, at the shepherd yurts and small home-stays the owners were extremely helpful and accommodating, checking each ingredient and preparing GF food separately. Stick to home stays and yurts if you’re coeliac so you can personally make contact with the (very kind) people making your food.
In addition, we were pleasantly surprised that western toilets were often available!
Cheers and happy travels. Richard (Australia) and Emma (The Netherlands)
Date of experience: August 2025
These are some tough hikes, but very manageable. I was the slowest hiker in our group by far, but Baiysh (lead guide) was strategic in stopping the group at the most scenic viewpoints, where they could take pictures and I could catch up. On steep downhill areas where I felt unsteady there was always Baiysh, Shadi (guide for the second portion), or a porter that were there to literally lend a hand. I am so glad that the second portion had horses to carry our items — our horsemen Nurlan and Sherlik were dependable.
Our lead guide, Baiysh, was one of the best guides I’ve ever had! Supportive, knowledgeable, adaptable. He was always sharing bits of Kyrgyz culture, interacting with everyone in such a respectful way, and was able to problem solve masterfully when our car broke down — there was no delays in the schedule at all. Shadi, our guide for the second portion, was also so supportive and knowledgeable. He was able to answer all of my never ending questions and also anticipate problems before they even arose. The two were such a dream team — one of our trek members has a birthday on our last day of hiking and these 2 somehow managed to get a cake and candles to our remote yurt camp and throw a dance party.
Please do this tour if you get the chance!
Date of experience: August 2025
Practical Information for Trekking and Hiking in the Tian Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan
The following section provides both practical travel information for trekking and hiking in Tian Shan Mountains of eastern Kyrgyzstan and details specific for this Best of Tian Shan Mountains Trek.
You will be responsible for carrying your items, including sleeping bags, clothing, and other essentials. If you prefer to hire a porter to assist with your luggage, the cost is $70 per day, which covers the porter’s meals and accommodation. Each porter can carry a maximum of 15 kg.
At each overnight camp, breakfast, dinner, tents, and sleeping bags will be provided.
The trek is quite challenging in parts: climbing up rocks/gravel before and after Ala Kul Pass at 3950 meters. You have to be reasonably fit. It can be a moderate trek for experienced and physically fit trekkers. Consider it a difficult trek for those who are not physically fit and have not done a trek for a long period.
You must be physically fit to do this trek.
You always have a guide if you join a group. It can be nice to have a guide especially if you are trying to do this with limited time, as they will know where the better trails are and can point out other sites along the way that you might not know the name for or are looking for. There will likely be places where you run into snow this year as it's been a much colder, snowier year than last year.
We strongly recommend joining one of our groups and do it as a guided trek.
You should take warm jackets and good trekking shoes. The weather changes frequently.
The best period to do this trek is from mid June to mid September.
The Tian Shan Mountains have humid climate and offers much rain. You should bring rainproof jackets.
The hike is steep and the altitude might impact you. If you are in a group, your group will have porters who carry all food and tents. You should bring with you a backpack to carry sleeping bags that can keep between 0 and -5 comfortable temperature, proper hiking boots, hiking trousers + rain cover for them, rain cover for bags and yourself, wind stopper jacket, and many thermal layers - NO cotton as if you sweat you remain wet.
There are springs and streams throughout the journey. We recommend bringing some water purification. Water coming from springs is pure and cold, you can drink if your stomach is not sensitive. In the worst case, you can ask your guide to boil water for a drink.
This 7-days trek can be shortened to 3-4-5-6 days.
You can join the group from others cities if you are already in Karakol or other cities near the trek starting point.
You can also join the trek on days 2,3,4 if you don't have 7-days.