Winter Horseback Riding to Song Kul Lake

In the morning, depart from Bishkek toward the scenic Issyk-Ata Valley, known for its natural hot springs and peaceful mountain setting. Take time to explore the gorge and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic spa area.

Continue to the archaeological site of Balasagun to visit the famous Burana Tower, a minaret dating from the 11th century and one of the most important Silk Road monuments in northern Kyrgyzstan. Walk among the ancient remains and petroglyphs scattered across the site.

In the afternoon, drive to Chong Kemin National Park, a beautiful protected valley of forests, rivers, and alpine pastures. On arrival, visit the Chabdan Batyr memorial park, dedicated to the Kyrgyz national hero and military leader.

In the evening, enjoy a cultural program organized by the regional ecotourism association in the village of Karol-Döbö, offering a warm introduction to local traditions and rural life.

We leave Chong Kemin National Park in the morning and drive south through the impressive Boom Gorge, following the Chu River as it cuts through dramatic red cliffs. By midday, we arrive in the village of Kyzart, a gateway to the high pastures of Jumgal.

After lunch, we leave the vehicles behind and begin our horseback journey. Riding along mountain trails, we gradually enter the wide open landscapes of the Jumgal region. By late afternoon, we reach Kilemche jailoo, a peaceful high pasture where shepherds settle during the colder months.

Dinner and overnight are arranged either in yurts during summer or in a shepherd’s house in winter, offering an authentic experience of nomadic life.

In the morning, we set off on horseback from Kilemche, ascending toward the Djangy Bulak Pass (3,437 m). The trail is steep and rocky, offering a rewarding challenge as we climb into the high mountains. From the top, a breathtaking panorama opens over the deep blue waters of Song Kul Lake and the vast alpine landscapes below.

We then descend into the Djaman Echki gorge, a wide summer pasture where shepherds graze their herds. Here, we stop for lunch in a traditional nomadic yurt, sharing a simple and authentic meal.

In the afternoon, we continue riding toward the shores of Song Kul Lake, following its peaceful banks until reaching the Tuz Ashuu gorge. Dinner and overnight in a yurt camp by the lake.

In winter, the route differs due to snow conditions: we cross the Song Kul range via the Tuz Ashuu Pass, the only accessible route during this season. At that time of year, only one yurt camp remains open along the lake, offering a unique experience in a remote and frozen landscape.

Early in the morning, we set off on horseback towards the Jumgal Valley. Our route climbs steadily to the Tuz-Ashuu Pass (3,224 m), offering a final panoramic view over Lake Son-Kul before we begin our descent into the lush Kilemche jailoo.​
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After lunch, we meet our driver and leave the mountains behind, following the spectacular road through the Kekemeren Canyon. The journey continues across the Too-Ashuu Pass, crossing the Kyrgyz Alatoo range via its tunnel, before descending into the vast Chüy Valley.​
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We reach Bishkek by the end of the day. Dinner is served in a traditional restaurant in the city, followed by an overnight stay at a comfortable hotel.

Depending on your flight time, your guide will join you to the airport and help you check in for your flight.  If your flight is later in the day your guide will show you more places in Bishkek before your flight. We hope you enjoyed your trip to Kyrgyzstan and we hope you come back again to explore other counties in Central Asia with us.