Naryn city - Kel-Suu lake

We depart from Naryn city in the morning, setting out towards Kok-Kyia Valley. Our route follows the main road to Kashgar, quickly ascending into a striking red canyon. Along the way, we make a brief stop at Ak-Tash Waterfall, where water seems to flow straight from the cliffside—a hidden gem in the rugged landscape.

Continuing onward, we cross the first mountain pass of the day, revealing the vast, open valley of At-Bashi. From here, we leave the main road, heading southeast towards the At-Bashi River. The journey takes us through the lush pastures of Bosogo, where nomadic herders graze their livestock against a backdrop of rolling hills.

We then ascend the Kaindy Pass, which leads us into the remote Ak-Say Valley, a vast and isolated highland plateau. As we approach the Chinese border, we enter a controlled area and pass through a military checkpoint, a stark reminder of the region’s remoteness. Beyond the checkpoint, the Ak-Suu high valley stretches before us—our final obstacle before reaching our destination.

By afternoon, we arrive at the breathtaking Kok-Kyia Valley, where we are warmly welcomed by Meder and his family, our hosts. In summer, we stay in traditional yurts, while in winter, accommodations are in a shepherd's house or a wagon, ensuring warmth and comfort in the cold season.

Winter Route Note: If the Kaindy Pass is closed due to snow, we take an alternate route via Torugart Road.