Kel-Suu + Tash-Rabat: 3 Days in the Depths of Naryn Region

Three days in the heart of Naryn Region — two world-class destinations in one itinerary.

Tash-Rabat is the best-preserved caravanserai on the entire Silk Road. It stands at over 3,500 m in the At-Bashy mountains and has sheltered merchants travelling between China and the Fergana Valley for centuries. Inside, 33 domed rooms are lit from above through ceiling openings, and the air is noticeably cooler than outside. Built in the 15th century on the site of a 9th–10th century Nestorian monastery, Tash-Rabat is currently on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.

Kel-Suu Lake lies 20 km from the Chinese border at 3,500 m, in the border zone of the Kokshaal-Too ridge. The lake formed in the 1980s after a landslide sealed the valley with sheer cliff walls. The water is a vivid turquoise-green fed by glacial melt. On the return leg: Kok-Kiya Valley and Kuljha-Bashi Canyons.

⚠️ Important: a border permit is required for Kel-Suu. Please send a copy of your passport in advance — we handle the paperwork. For non-Kyrgyz citizens the permit fee is higher and is included in the tour price.

What to Expect

• Tash-Rabat (3,500 m) — the best-preserved Silk Road caravanserai
• Kok-Kiya Valley and the landscapes of the border region
• Kel-Suu Lake (3,550 m) with turquoise water among sheer cliffs
• Kuljha-Bashi Canyons
• Vast highland pastures with yaks and horses
• 2 nights in yurts or guest cabins

Route Details

• Road distance: 500 km one way
• Hiking trail: 7 km one way (to Kel-Suu)
• Elevation change: 300 m
• Maximum elevation: 3,550 m

Included

• Border permit
• Transfer throughout the trip
• 2 nights accommodation in yurts or guest cabins
• 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, 1 lunch
• Guide

Pricing

• Kyrgyz citizens — 14,500 KGS per person
• Foreign nationals — 15,000 KGS per person

Not Included

• Lunches (except day 3), water and snacks
• Boat ride
• Horseback riding
• Sauna
• Personal expenses

What to Bring

• Warm, comfortable footwear
• Warm clothing: jacket, fleece, hat, gloves
• Windproof layer
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Rain jacket
• Power bank
• Water and snacks
• Extra socks and spare shoes
• Personal items and hygiene products