Journey · 1 day
Tulpar Tash (Song Kul) - Tamchy
From Song-Kul Lake to Tamchy on the Northern Shore of Issyk-Kul
- Drive
- 240 km
- Walk
- 2 km
- Season
- June – September
- Meals
- Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner
- Elevation gain
- 50 m
- Elevation loss
- 50 m
Journey route
The route
- 01OriginTulpar Tash (Song Kul)
- 02DestinationTamchy
Journey notes
About this Journey
In the morning, we enjoy free time at Song-Kul Lake, in the peaceful surroundings of Tulpar Tash. This is a perfect moment to experience the silence of the high steppes and observe the daily life of Kyrgyz nomads, with their yurts and herds scattered across the vast alpine pastures.
Later, we set off and drive along the shores of the lake before ascending to the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass (3,447 m). From the top, breathtaking panoramic views open over the lake and the surrounding mountains. We then descend into the Tolok Valley, where the landscape reveals a beautiful contrast of red rock formations and green meadows.
Continuing our journey, we reach the village of Kochkor, known as a center of traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts. Here, we visit a local workshop to discover the art of felt-making and other traditional crafts. After lunch, we resume our drive toward Issyk-Kul Lake, following the road across the wide basin that surrounds the lake.
In the afternoon, we leave the main road to reach the quiet village of Tamchy, located on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul. Upon arrival, we settle into a welcoming homestay, just a short distance from the lakeshore.
Dinner and overnight in Tamchy.
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