Kel-Suu Lake — Weekend Tour to the Border Region of Naryn

Kel-Suu is one of the most remote and striking lakes in Kyrgyzstan. It sits in the Aksai Valley of Naryn Region, 20 km from the Chinese border, at 3,500 m above sea level. The lake formed after a major landslide in the 1980s — the debris blocked the valley and created a basin surrounded by sheer cliffs. The water is fed by the glaciers of the Kokshaal-Too ridge and holds a vivid, opaque turquoise colour.

Kel-Suu lies in a border zone: the route passes through two border checkpoints, and a border permit is mandatory for all visitors. We handle the permit — just send us a copy of your passport in advance. There is no mobile signal at the lake. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below zero at night — warm clothing is essential.

Along the way: vast pastures of yaks, horses and cattle, the raw gorges of Naryn Region and Guljha-Bashi Canyon on the return leg. Overnight in a yurt or heated cabin with traditional Kyrgyz food.

⚠️ Important: a copy of your passport is required in advance for the border permit. For non-Kyrgyz citizens the permit costs more — this is included in the tour price.

What to Expect

• Drive through Naryn and the Aksai Valley (~470 km one way)
• Border checkpoints and the Kokshaal-Too ridge landscapes
• Vast highland pastures with yaks and horses
• Kel-Suu Lake (3,500 m) with turquoise water set among sheer cliffs
• Overnight in a yurt or heated cabin
• Guljha-Bashi Canyon on the return

Route Details

• Road distance: 470 km one way
• Hiking trail: 7 km one way
• Elevation change: 300 m
• Maximum elevation: 3,550 m

Difficulty

Below moderate. Long drive, manageable hike with no steep climbs.

Included

• Border permit
• Transfer throughout the trip
• Yurt accommodation
• 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner
• Guide

Pricing

• Kyrgyz citizens — 9,500 KGS per person
• Foreign nationals — 10,500 KGS per person

Not Included

• Food, water and snacks en route
• Boat or horse rides
• Personal expenses

What to Bring

• Warm, comfortable footwear
• Warm clothing: jacket, fleece, gloves
• Windproof suit / shell layer
• Warm hat and cap
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Rain jacket
• Power bank
• Snacks and drinks
• Swimwear
• Extra socks and spare shoes