2-day hike from Altyn Arashan via Ala Kul (Ala Köl) to Karakol valley

We hiked in two days from Altyn Arashan (altitude: ~2500m) via lake Ala Kul (altitude: ~3500m) to the Karakol valley. Most people do this track in the other direction. This hike is probably the most popular hike in Kyrgyzstan for tourists. It is one section of the 7-day Ak Suu Travese: https://www.asia-hikes.com/kyrgyzstan-ak-suu-transverse-trek/

The first day we drove in an old UAZ Buchanka from Karakol to Altyn Arashan ("Golden Spring") and hiked to the lake. Some people walk to Altyn Arashan and stay there for the night. There are hotsprings at Altyn Arashan. Before you will reach the lake, you have to cross the Ala Kul mountain pass which is at 3920m. This bit is the only part where you have to pay a little bit of attention. But it is not a technical section. One of our friends was not the fittest and he had quite some difficulties not only with the altitude but also the physical demands. Before the mountain pass you can choose between going straight up or taking another path that is less steep. Especially when there is fresh snow and fog, I would not recommend going straight up.

We set up our tents at the western end of lake Ala Kul. There is mostly bare rock. But you will find enough spots where you can attach you tent.

The second day we hiked from the lake down to the Karakol valley. There was a small yurt camp on the way where you could buy chips, coke, etc. We did not walk back to Karakol but took a car back through the valley.

You won’t need any special equipment for this hike and it’s all non-technical trekking. However, even though we did track in early August we still had fresh snow. It snowed a few days before. When you plan on doing the track you should take the erratic weather into account.

There are several different locations where you can sleep. I added waypoints. But you will find most of the camp sites and yurt camps on openstreetmap.

The entry fee for the Karakol National Park is 250som per person. Therefore, don't be surprised if there’s a checkpoint somewhere. If you want to do this trek with a guide or porter, "Destination Karakol" can organize this for you. As well as transportation to and from trailheads (i.e. Altyn Arashan and/or Karakol Valley).

Basics to plan your hiking trip in Kyrgyzstan: https://youtu.be/NlPTsrY9l8g

Map with points of interest for hiking: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1E-MXWNohzhciM7prLNtnKQ54nw6Gtp7R&usp=sharing