Ala-Kul

The rock-dammed lake stretches 2.8 kilometers in length and reaches 700 meters in width, creating a surface area of 1.5 square kilometers.

Russian explorer Putimtsoff conducted the initial documented visit to the lake in 1811, followed by Alexander von Schrenk's detailed exploration thirty years later.

The name of the lake translates from Kyrgyz language as 'variegated lake', referring to the different colored rocks visible in its waters.

The complete trek to Ala-Kul requires four days of hiking through mountainous terrain, with overnight stays at designated yurt camps along the route.

Located at 3,560 meters above sea level, the lake changes its water color throughout the day due to light reflection on mineral deposits.

Location: Issyk-Kul Region

Elevation above the sea: 3,560 m

GPS coordinates: 42.31750,78.53556

Latest update: March 5, 2025 17:30