Altyn-Arashan Gorge Road: From Issyk-Kul Shore

The route runs from the southern shore of Issyk-Kul through the village of Kharakol to the Altyn-Arashan gorge in Kyrgyzstan. The road to the gorge is considered one of the most difficult in the region, requiring an off-road vehicle to overcome rocky areas and steep climbs for.

Mode
Places
Start
Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul
End
Altyn-Arasan Gorge
Stops
2
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul — Starting point on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul lake
  2. Altyn-Arasan Gorge — High-altitude gorge known for difficult mountain road, hot springs, and scenic beauty

Useful for your trip

Transport
The road to the Altyn-Arashan gorge is considered one of the most difficult off-road roads in Kyrgyzstan with stones, fords and steep ascents. Not every car can pass.
Transport
If you have a small car, leave it at the parking lot in the village and go further by taxi (UAZ) for 80 soms or rent horses.
Where to stay
There are hot springs along the route, which become a salvation after a long journey. The village has a yurt town for living.
Transport
On difficult sections of the road, there is a rule: whoever is easier to go down, lets the oncoming person go up the hill.
Tip
The climb for 14 km of the path is more than 1000 meters, the road is very steep. Take into account physical fitness.
Where to stay
The southern shore of Issyk-Kul is less crowded than the northern. There are many wild locations for camping and solitude, the water is cleaner.
Transport
On an expedition vehicle, it is recommended to have full underbody protection and a snack for safe fording.
Tip
Coniferous forests, mountain landscapes and turbulent rivers in the gorge require a good camera for shooting. The places are very photogenic.
Save money
Take a canister with technical water and spare fuel with you. Spare fuel should always be available for long routes.

Video on this route

KYRGYZSTAN/ALTYN-ARASHAN GORGE. THE MOST DIFFICULT ROAD

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