Altyn Arashan, a magnificent destination nestled in the Tien Shan Mountains, is renowned for its natural beauty and healing hot springs. This location is considered one of Kyrgyzstan’s most popular tourist spots, thanks to its pristine landscapes, vast pine forests, and breathtaking views. Altyn Arashan is a «power spot,» a place where several hot springs with diverse therapeutic properties are concentrated. These springs, located at an altitude of about 3000 meters, offer soothing waters that reach temperatures around 40˚C, ideal for a gradual dip. Some springs are cooler, offering a variety of temperatures and mineral compositions, including sulfur and radon springs.
Many of the springs are well-maintained, with log structures and cement pools built over them. After each visitor, the water is drained, and a small fee of 100 som per hour (around 2 USD) is charged. However, if you rent accommodation on-site, access to the springs is complimentary. Altyn Arashan attracts mountaineers looking to relax and warm their bones after glacier treks, as well as Kyrgyz grandmothers and international backpackers seeking healing.
Even during the Soviet era, this remarkable area was recognized as a specially protected nature reserve due to its rich biodiversity. The valley was designated a nature reserve in 1963 and continues to hold that status. The untouched relic forest, dominated by the Tien Shan spruce, flourishes here. The hot springs, known worldwide, are a significant attraction.
For those who hike 5-6 kilometers uphill from the camp, the stunning high-altitude Ala-Kul Lake awaits. Another breathtaking sight is the Aksuu Wall, also known as Tent Peak (4260 meters), named for its unique trapezoidal shape—a rare phenomenon in these mountains. The view of the wall has become an iconic image of the area.
Reaching Altyn Arashan is relatively easy. From Bishkek, you can travel by bus or a faster marshrutka to Karakol. In Karakol, hop on a marshrutka or bus heading to Ak-Suu, departing from the bazaar. From there, it’s a 15-kilometer trek along a steep mountain road (5-6 hours of hiking) that follows the Arashan River. Alternatively, local drivers offer rides on special vehicles designed for the rugged terrain, allowing for a hassle-free journey if preferred.
The road is challenging, with steep sections requiring a heavy-duty 4WD vehicle. It passes through pine forests, home to many hidden springs (both hot and cold). Bears are known to frequent the area. A small museum nearby showcases the region’s wildlife, with taxidermied animals typical of the area.
From Altyn Arashan, visitors can embark on several day hikes or set off on multi-day trekking adventures through the well-worn paths of the Tien Shan. A popular two-day trekking route from Karakol leads through the pass to the hot springs of Kyrgyzstan, making it a perfect escape for hikers.
For trekking enthusiasts, a hike to the base of the peak, where the glacial lake Kashka-Suu and several waterfalls—Sharkyratma, Kuldurek, Tash-Tekmir, Archaly-Tor, and Takyr-Tor—are located, will be particularly fascinating. This gorge features a complex geographical terrain, unlike any other in the northern Tien Shan.
Above the resort, you’ll find the Kyzyl Tash Cave and the Ak Suu mountain range, with peaks reaching an elevation of 5022 meters. Nearby ravines such as Tergen Ak Suu, Djergalan, Koi Djailoo, and others offer additional opportunities for exploration.
The shepherd of the Bugu tribe had a daughter of celestial beauty named Tolgon-Ay. Her beauty was so extraordinary that she outshone the moon and all the stars. Naturally, suitors flocked to her like moths to a flame, all eager to win her hand in marriage. Among them was a poor warrior named Yusuf, who, despite his humble background, stirred Tolgon-Ay’s heart. Her cheeks flushed like poppies, her chest heaved with emotion, and she fell deeply in love with him. One day, as they stood together, Yusuf, his eyes burning with passion, asked, «Are you all mine?» Lowering her gaze, Tolgon-Ay shyly whispered «yes» and, weeping, threw herself into his arms.
But fate had other plans. Yusuf was called to war, where he died a hero’s death. The news shattered Tolgon-Ay’s heart, as if she had been slain without a blade. Once again, she found herself pursued by wealthy suitors, all offering her a life of luxury and a secure future. Yet, in the name of love, she rejected each and every one of them. To her, it was better to die than marry someone she did not love.
Desperate to escape, Tolgon-Ay parted the rocks of the mountains and entered a cave, where the walls closed behind her, sealing her away forever. But the cave could not contain her grief, and her tears began to seep through the stone. High in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, amid the multicolored meadows of the Arashan River Valley, a hot spring was born—Altyn Arashan—surrounded by mighty pine forests. These are said to be the tears of Tolgon-Ay, forever flowing, marking the place of her eternal sorrow and undying love.
Trek through Karakol Valley
Camp near Ala-Kul Lake
Cross the Ala-Kul Pass
Relax in Altyn-Arashan hot springs
Discover Cholpon-Ata’s petroglyphs
Enjoy breathtaking mountain views