Kol-Ukok Lake

Nestled in the northeastern part of the Terskey-Ala-Too mountain range in Kyrgyzstan’s Naryn region, Lake Kol-Ukok (also known as Kel-Ukok) is a serene mountain lake known for its tranquility and beauty rather than swimming. The lake’s frigid waters, set against a backdrop of rugged peaks, draw visitors seeking peace and the raw, unspoiled nature of the Kyrgyz highlands.

Kol-Ukok is home to Sevan trout, a species introduced from Armenia. The meadows surrounding the lake are dotted with edelweiss, adding to the area’s picturesque charm. The surrounding wilderness is rich in wildlife, including wolves, foxes, hares, and mountain goats, making it a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts.

Historically, caravans from the Great Silk Road once passed near Kol-Ukok, traveling through the Torugart Pass on their way to Kashgar in China, adding a sense of ancient mystery to this already captivating landscape.

During the summer months, the area comes alive as local shepherds bring their livestock to graze in the lush pastures, known as jailoo. For the Kyrgyz people, jailoo is not just a place for grazing—it’s a centuries-old tradition. Men bring their livestock and set up yurts, living here for months at a time. Visitors are often treated to traditional Kyrgyz delights like kymyz, a fermented mare’s milk, and kurut, dried salty balls of sour milk.

Visiting Kol-Ukok requires a special permit, but this hasn’t deterred those eager to experience the lake’s stunning vistas. Here, visitors often say it feels like all four seasons can be seen at once—this is part of the lake’s unique charm. You can spend the night by the lake, with locals offering cozy, traditional Kyrgyz yurts for rent.

The area around Kol-Ukok is perfect for hiking, whether on foot or horseback. The breathtaking natural beauty and crisp mountain air will accompany you throughout your journey. If you’re not familiar with horseback riding, the hospitable Kyrgyz locals are more than happy to teach you the basics.

Just a short distance from Kol-Ukok is the village of Kochkorka, a cultural gem where you can immerse yourself in Kyrgyz customs and traditions. However, it’s important to plan your trip to Kol-Ukok during good weather, as rain can wash away the unpaved roads, making travel difficult.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Orto-Tokoy reservoir, a scenic spot perched at 170 meters above sea level. Spanning 18 kilometers in length and 5 kilometers in width, with a maximum depth of 47 meters, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.