Son Kul lake
Month of the year to visit: from June to October
Transportation: people can take a taxi to Son Kul lake.
What to do in Son-Kul lake: You can do horse-riding tour in Son-Kul lake and overnight in a yurt
Transportation: people can take a taxi to Son Kul lake.
What to do in Son-Kul lake: You can do horse-riding tour in Son-Kul lake and overnight in a yurt
Son-Kul Lake is a large freshwater lake located at an altitude of 3016 meters above sea level in the northwestern part of the Naryn region. It is situated in a basin between the inner ranges of the Tian Shan Mountains. he area around the lake is adorned with numerous mountain passes, both for vehicles and pedestrians. Each pass offers breathtaking views, such as Too-Ashuu, Dolon, Terskey-Torpoq (also known as the "33 Parrots" by tourists), Kalmak-Ashuu, Moldo-Ashuu, Kara-Keche, as well as pedestrian routes like Tuz-Ashuu, Chil-Bel, and Uzbek.
This magnificent lake freezes during the cold period and is surrounded by the majestic beauty of green hills, sharp peaks, snow-covered ridges, and numerous edelweiss flowers amidst low grass. It's worth noting that due to the climatic conditions, trees do not grow in this area. During this time, you can witness the daily life of the nomadic people. During the day, you can observe the setting up of yurts, cooking meals over an open fire, stocking supplies, arranging temporary animal pens, grazing livestock, fishing, and even hunting during the hunting season. In the evening, you can enjoy a leisurely tea ceremony under a canopy of stars within arm's reach and listen to the captivating stories told by shepherds and hunters about nomadic traditions and legends.
This magnificent lake freezes during the cold period and is surrounded by the majestic beauty of green hills, sharp peaks, snow-covered ridges, and numerous edelweiss flowers amidst low grass. It's worth noting that due to the climatic conditions, trees do not grow in this area. During this time, you can witness the daily life of the nomadic people. During the day, you can observe the setting up of yurts, cooking meals over an open fire, stocking supplies, arranging temporary animal pens, grazing livestock, fishing, and even hunting during the hunting season. In the evening, you can enjoy a leisurely tea ceremony under a canopy of stars within arm's reach and listen to the captivating stories told by shepherds and hunters about nomadic traditions and legends.
The shores of the lake boast diverse landscapes, ranging from gentle slopes to steep, winding hillsides. It is a delightful experience to explore these landscapes on foot, by bicycle, or even on horseback. The panoramic views that unfold before your eyes will captivate even the most seasoned traveler.
Near the lake, there is a stone structure from the 19th century called the Tailyak Batyr Mausoleum.
Son-Kul Lake is an ideal location for eco-tourists during the summer season, although it may not be suitable for everyone due to the partially challenging road conditions. The main route is paved, but some sections are of moderate difficulty. It is also a fantastic destination for mountain bikers and adventure enthusiasts.
Son-Kul Lake is popular for several reasons:
- Authentic nomadic pastures
- Opportunities to reconnect with nature in its pristine form
- Escape from civilization
- Hospitality of yurt camps
- Ample space for camping
- Located at the intersection of other tourist routes
- Abundance of open areas for team games
- Horseback riding opportunities
The diverse landscapes along the lake's shores, ranging from gentle slopes to steep, winding hillsides, make it a pleasant experience to explore on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. The breathtaking panoramic views will leave even the most experienced traveler awe-struck.
Other places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
Kegety Gorge is a wonderful place near the capital of Kyrgyzstan at an altitude of 4000 m above sea level. Not a classic gorge is appreciated by tourists for its spaciousness - wide and long, about 27 km.
Within our republic's territory, there exist numerous architectural monuments, with one of the most renowned being the Burana Tower. The term "Burana" is derived from the word "monora," which means minaret. The minaret is a part of the ancient Burana settlement, situated 12 kilometers from the town of Tokmok and 80 kilometers from Bishkek. Burana Tower stands as one of the oldest structures within our republic. Its construction dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Originally, the minaret's height reached 40 meters, and according to some researchers, possibly 45 meters. Its upper section was crowned with a dome-shaped lantern, similar to other structures of its kind. However, due to the consequences of an earthquake that occurred around the 15th or 16th centuries, the upper portion was destroyed. As of today, the tower's height stands at 21.7 meters.
Sary Chelek is an enchanting place that captivates even the most discerning enthusiasts of flora and fauna. The most popular route leads to Lake Sary Chelek, located near the Chatkal Range at an altitude of 1940 m.
The national park Ala-Archa is a picturesque delight for the eyes, it is located nearby Bishkek, Ala-Too Kyrgyz ridges. The national park stretches at an altitude of 1600-4860m and is a favorite place of citizens and guests of the capital.
Lake Issyk-Kul - a mountain drainless lake (1610 m above sea level), included in the list of the deepest lakes in the world (698 m), located between the Tien Shan ranges. The astronauts call it the eye of the Earth for its color and shape, and the locals call it a pearl because of its framing with snowy peaks
Karakol (formerly known as Przhevalsk from 1889 to 1922 and from 1939 to 1992) is the fourth most populous city in Kyrgyzstan. It serves as the administrative center of the Issyk-Kul region. The city is located near the eastern end of Lake Issyk-Kul, approximately 150 kilometers from the Kyrgyz-Chinese border and 380 kilometers from the capital, Bishkek. Geographically, it is situated at an elevation ranging from 1690 to 1850 meters above sea level.
Tours in Kyrgyzstan
Open a beautiful gorge near Bishkek in one day
Fascinating tour with eagle hunting show
3 days
See pearl of Kyrgyzstan