Heights of Alay: 7 days trek through the Alay Mountains
Highlights of the trip
- Epic sceneries of the titanic Alay mountains
- Prestine nature
- Nomadic and rural lifestyles
- Turquoise lakes and waterfalls
Alay mountains – Central Asia’s Trekking Utopia. The place where the titanic mountains blend with rushing rivers, lush-green pastures and nomadic spirit. Immerse into this utopia by joining the Bestselling Heights of Alay Trek (7-days edition).
Tour Details
Available
June (mid) - Early September
Schedule
Upon request
Duration
7 days (6 nights)
Price
upon request
Difficulty
Moderate - challenging
Required items
Trekking boots (+light shoes), weatherproof warm clothes, hat, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses
Itinerary
Day 1: Osh — Sary-Mogol Village
A morning departure from Osh to Sary-Mogol through the scenic Alay mountains and valley. Optional stops at Lake Kolduk (5 km detour from the highway) and Gegige Lake (2 hours of walking). Arriving in Sary-Mogol, check in the guesthouse, free time, and dinner.
*Travelers can choose to drive straight to Tulpar Kol lake and stay at the yurt camp
Day 2: Tulpar Kol Lake — Travel pass –Tulpar Kol Lake (6-7 hours walking)
Enjoy your filling breakfast and get some energy before driving to the Tulpar Kol yurt camp (1 hour drive). Leave your heavy bags before heading to the Traveler’s Pass. You are going to have a challenging, yet rewarding ascent through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Central Asia. The trail will lead you through the rugged terrain, glacial streams, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows. On top of it, you will enjoy your lunch with epic views before heading back to the yurt camp. Within 7 hours of hiking (round trip), your body will become acclimatized and adjust to the thin air. Have your dinner and a well-deserved rest at the yurt camp.
Day 3: Tulpar Kol Lake – Tuiyuk – Sary-Mogol (6 hours walking, 1.30 hours driving)
Prepare yourself for the incredible scenery of the entire Alay Valley and 40 lakes. Those who struggle with high altitude can follow an alternative path to the shepherd’s yurt in the Tuyuk Canyon. Enjoy a short walk to the charming view of the canyon and the snow-capped peaks of Pik Latvia (6 218 m) and Pik Estonia (6,202 m). Shout out to the travelers from Baltic countries! The panoramic peak is at 4100 meters, and the peak itself, from which you can see the entire Tulpar-Kol lake is at 4080 meters. The slope is not very steep, but you will have to climb to 3375 meters (without equipment), then descend to the main canyon. After lunch, continue hiking to Kashar (shepherd’s hut), from where you’ll be picked up by car and returned to Sary-Mogol.
Day 4: Sary-Mogol village – Sary-Mogol yurt camp
You start the day by driving to the trailhead (1 hour) where you will start a challenging trek by going up to the Sary-Mogol Pass (4,200 m) and Besh-Kol lake. The route takes 6–8 hours of walking up the rocky path. At the top of the pass, you will be embraced by another stunning view of Besh-Kol lakes. Carry your journey on to Sary Mogol yurt camp.
Day 5: Sary-Mogol yurt camp – Koshmoinok (6 hours)
Your adventure follows the river, descending towards the end of a beautiful mountain gorge. Grandiose views of the Kichik Alay mountain range will accompany you to the small village Kyzyl-Shoro and stop for lunch at the local homestay or cafe. After lunch, you go further to the yurt camp in Koshmoinok.
Day 6: Koshmoinok to Kojo-Kelen village (6 hours)
Another day filled with epic panoramic views and pristine nature of Sary-Bel Pass (3150m), decorated with the sounds of birds and rushing rivers. The trail will lead you to the picturesque village of Kojo-Kelen, renowned for its red rock formations and authentic charm. The village will welcome you with renowned Kyrgyz hospitality at the local cozy homestay.
Day 7: Kojo-Kelen – Osh (transfer to the airport, border, or hotel, 3 hours driving)
After breakfast, discover the signature sights of Kojo-Kelen. The first is a waterfall: a hidden cascade that offers a refreshing ambiance, perfect for relaxation and photography. Second is the Blue Cave Pool – a wonderful spot where the turquoise water glows inside a natural cave—ideal for a quick dip or simply admiring.
As your journey is culminating, you are about to head back to Osh. Don’t get sad, as the country road to Osh will offer more scenery of nature’s beauty. Take a chance to stop at the Papan Reservoir for photos of the turquoise waters against a backdrop of mountains. Get an additional glimpse of the traditional Kyrgyz Villages filled with rural life and the charm of remote mountain settlements. Arrive in Osh and consider discovering the highlights of the most ancient city of Kyrgyzstan with guided tours.