Question 1

Do I need any special permits for certain areas or treks in Kyrgyzstan?

Daniel · Accepted Answer

Yes, certain border regions of Kyrgyzstan that are close to the Tajik, Uzbek or Chinese borders require special permits to visit. For example, to hike to Lenin Peak Base Camp in the southern Pamir-Alay Mountains near the Tajik border, a Kyrgyz Border Zone Permit is officially required. This permit costs around $15 for the regular application time (1-3 weeks) and $30-$50 for expedited services (e.g., 1-3 days).

Visit Alay includes the application process and cost of the permit (for regular speed applications) as part of the tour cost for treks to Lenin Peak Base Camp or if your tour goes to another location that requires a permit. We ask for a copy of your passport at the time that you book your tour in order to apply for your permit.

If you are going to Lenin Peak Base Camp or another border zone not on one our tours, be sure to apply for your permit several weeks in advance through a local tour company.

Note: Although many travelers visit places like Tulpar Kol Lake and Lenin Base Camp without being checked, we strongly advise that you have the permit to avoid any issues with military border guards.

Question 2

Do I need any special permits for certain areas or treks in Kyrgyzstan?

Daniel · Accepted Answer

Yes, certain border regions of Kyrgyzstan that are close to the Tajik, Uzbek or Chinese borders require special permits to visit. For example, to hike to Lenin Peak Base Camp in the southern Pamir-Alay Mountains near the Tajik border, a Kyrgyz Border Zone Permit is officially required. This permit costs around $15 for the regular application time (1-3 weeks) and $30-$50 for expedited services (e.g., 1-3 days).

Visit Alay includes the application process and cost of the permit (for regular speed applications) as part of the tour cost for treks to Lenin Peak Base Camp or if your tour goes to another location that requires a permit. We ask for a copy of your passport at the time that you book your tour in order to apply for your permit.

If you are going to Lenin Peak Base Camp or another border zone not on one our tours, be sure to apply for your permit several weeks in advance through a local tour company.

Note: Although many travelers visit places like Tulpar Kol Lake and Lenin Base Camp without being checked, we strongly advise that you have the permit to avoid any issues with military border guards.