Altyn Arashan Valley
Ak Suu Traverse
- Distance: Approx. 110 km
- Duration: Seven days
- Start: Jyrgalan
- End: Jeti-Oguz
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
The Ak Suu Traverse isn't a trek to approach light-heartedly. The 110 km beast of a hike demands a seven-day hiking commitment and winds through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Kyrgyzstan's Terskey Alatau range. Starting from Jyrgalan village and concluding in Jeti-Oguz, it introduces you to some of the country's most striking mountainous terrain.
The trail passes valleys, dense coniferous forests, and across rivers, with near-constant views of glacier-capped peaks. The trail ascends towards Ala-Kul Lake and then to the panoramic Ala-Kul Pass. However, the hike’s highlight is the hot springs at Altyn Arashan before reaching Ak-Suu village. The springs offer a perfect place for a soothing dip, a reward on your descent after a challenging climb.
Accommodation typically includes guest houses, yurt camps, and camping sites.