Built around Issyk-Köl, one of the world's largest and deepest alpine lakes, this region pairs a warm, swimmable lakeshore with the glaciated Terskey Ala-Too and the cold, empty jailoo plateau of Naryn. Karakol, on the eastern shore, is Kyrgyzstan's adventure capital — the base for the country's best-loved treks and its liveliest winter scene.
Treks, springs and lakes
The classic Ala-Kul trek and Altyn-Arashan hot-spring walks from Karakol, horse trekking to the jailoo pastures of Song-Köl, and lakeside recovery swims, in Ysyk-Köl and high Naryn.
Winter in Karakol
From December, Karakol offers skiing and ski touring with a genuine backcountry feel. Open the Book here tab to see what is running.
