Ala-Kul Lake (Kyrgyzstan) – Complete Overview
Location:
Ala-Kul Lake is located in the Terskey Alatau mountain range in eastern Kyrgyzstan, near the town of Karakol and not far from Issyk-Kul Lake.
Altitude:
Approximately 3,560 meters (11,680 feet) above sea level.
Meaning of the Name:
“Ala-Kul” means “Motley Lake” in Kyrgyz, referring to its changing colors — turquoise, deep blue, or green — depending on the weather and sunlight.
One of Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful alpine lakes
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks
Popular trekking destination
Part of the Ala-Kul Pass trek
Usually 3–4 days tour from Karakol.
Karakol → Karakol Valley
Sirota Camp
Ala-Kul Lake
Ala-Kul Pass (3,920 m)
Altyn Arashan Valley (hot springs)
Moderate to challenging
High altitude and steep ascent to the pass
Requires good physical condition
July to September
Snow may block the pass before July
Weather can change quickly even in summer
Generally, no required
If close to border areas, check local regulations
Glacier-fed cold lake (too cold for swimming)
Camping required (no hotels at the lake)
Stunning sunrise and sunset views
Possible wildlife: marmots, ibex, golden eagles
Acclimatize in Karakol before trekking
Carry warm clothing (temperature drops below freezing at night)
Bring enough food and water purification tablets
Consider hiring a local guide if inexperienced
If you’re planning a trip, I can also help with:
A detailed 3-day itinerary
Budget estimate
Packing list
How to reach from Bishkek
Horse trekking options
Let me know what you need!
Ala-Kul is famous for its changing colors:
Bright turquoise in sunlight
Deep blue or green under clouds
Best times:
Sunrise 🌅
Sunset 🌄
The surrounding snow peaks make amazing panoramic shots.
There are no hotels, so camping is the experience.
Peaceful alpine environment
Star-filled night sky
Very quiet and remote
(Be prepared for freezing temperatures at night.)
If you’re trekking through, the Ala-Kul Pass (3,920 m) offers:
Stunning glacier views
One of the best viewpoints in Kyrgyzstan
A sense of achievement
After the trek, soak in natural hot springs in Altyn Arashan valley.
It’s the perfect reward after hiking.
If you don’t want to hike the whole way, you can:
Hire horses from Karakol
Combine hiking + horse riding
You may see:
Marmots
Ibex
Eagles
Alpine flowers (in summer)
Glacier landscapes
Snow even in summer
True off-grid mountain experience
No swimming (water is glacier-fed and extremely cold)
Weather changes quickly
Good fitness required
If you tell me:
How many days you have
Your fitness level
Whether you prefer hiking or horse riding
I can suggest a detailed plan for you.
