7-day Tian Shan Expedition: Enilchek & Sary-jaz
About this tour
This unique 7-day expedition takes you deep into the heart of the Central Tian Shan, beginning with a scenic drive through the Boom Gorge and the lush Grigorievka and Semenovka valleys to the historic city of Karakol, where you will experience a traditional Dungan cultural dinner. The adventure turns rugged as you cross the high-altitude Chon-Ashuu Pass (3822m) to reach the remote "ghost town" of Enilchek, an abandoned Soviet-era settlement frozen in time. You will explore the pristine Khan-Tengri State Park, venturing through the At-Jailoo mountains and the expansive Sary-Jaz Valley, where turquoise rivers flow beneath the towering 7,000-meter peaks of the Khan-Tengri massif. The journey concludes with the iconic landmarks of the Issyk-Kul South Shore, including the red cliffs of Jeti-Oguz, the majestic Barskoon waterfalls, and the surreal labyrinths of Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, ending with an authentic yurt camp stay and a traditional eagle hunting demonstration before returning to Bishkek.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Boom gorge - Issyk-Kul Lake (1600m) – Karakol Drive: 250 km (4,5-5 hours with stops). Stop at Boom Gorge, a dramatic 30-kilometer canyon that acts as a natural gateway between the Chuy and Issyk-Kul regions Visit Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges, two of the most picturesque valleys in the Kungey Ala-Too range. Enjoy a short hike. Continue to Karakol, a historic city at the foot of the Terskey Ala-Too mountains. Dinner with a local Dungan family, featuring traditional dishes such as steamed rice, savory dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, handmade noodles, crispy pastries, and sweet fried traditional dough accompanied by black/green tea while learning about their history as Chinese-Muslim settlers in Kyrgyzstan. Overnight in a cozy guesthouse in Karakol.
Day 2: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan to Enilchek, Kyrgyzstan
Depart for Turgen Gorge, passing through dramatic landscapes and stopping at old Soviet meteorological stations. Explore the gorge and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The journey continues over the Chon-Ashuu Pass (3822 m). At the summit, marvel at the panoramic views of the rugged mountain peaks and deep valleys below. Visit the natural hot springs near Enilchek Village. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters. Explore Enilchek Village (2500m) , a remote settlement with Soviet-era relics. Dinner and overnight stay in the village at a guesthouse with a general bathroom.. This remote Enilchek village, built in the 1980s during the Soviet era, was originally intended to accommodate over 20000 residents and included ambitious infrastructure such as multi-story buildings and an airstrip. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union left the village largely abandoned, and today, only about 30 families remain, primarily focused on livestock farming. Enilchek’s hauntingly quiet streets, abandoned structures, and Soviet-era relics tell the story of its forgotten past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Day 3: Enilchek, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, begin your journey along the picturesque Enilchek River at Enilchek gorge (2700m), heading towards the serene At-Jailoo mountains (3100m). This area is known for its untouched natural beauty, with the river carving its way through dramatic mountain landscapes. Along the way, take in the fresh mountain air and the peaceful sound of the rushing river. Upon arrival at an old ranger house, enjoy a lunch picnic in the tranquil surroundings before embarking on an afternoon horseback riding adventure. Horse riding is for additional fees. Return to Enilchek Village for dinner and overnight stay in a guesthouse with a general bathroom.
Day 4: Enilchek, Kyrgyzstan to Saryjaz waterfall, Enilchek, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, the journey begins from Enilchek Gorge to the Sary-Jaz Valley, covering approximately 100 km. The route transitions from the rugged charm of Enilchek to the expansive beauty of the valley. For the first 70 kilometers, the road is paved, while the remaining stretch offers an adventurous drive on rough terrain. To enter the Sary-Jaz region, travelers must pass through a restricted border zone, requiring special permits. The Sary-Jaz Valley spans an impressive 140 kilometers, with the Sary-Jaz River flowing through it for 198 kilometers within Kyrgyzstan. The river’s striking greenish-white waters, fed by melting snow and glaciers, create a mesmerizing contrast against the jagged peaks and vast alpine meadows that surround it. The Central Tien Shan region, where the valley lies, is home to 574 glaciers, covering a total area of 1546.4 km2, contributing to the valley’s dramatic and pristine beauty. As the journey continues, a highlight is reaching Turuk Pass (3625 m). From here, weather permitting, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Khan-Tengri Peak, which rises to 6995 m (7010 m including its glacier). The pass also offers views of surrounding peaks, shimmering glacial lakes, and the winding Sary-Jaz River. This windswept, awe-inspiring location is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the Sary-Jaz wilderness. The valley stretches for 90 kilometers from the border post to its farthest points, with stops along the way to admire the natural beauty.
Day 5: Turuk, Kyrgyzstan to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
As you drive through Chaar-Kuduk Gorge (2600 km) which lies on the northern slopes of the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range, you will pass another border post on the Kyrgyz-Kazakh frontier, adding to the adventure. This gorge, with its pine-lined riverbanks, offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere. By evening, you will arrive in Karakol
Day 6: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan to Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Visit Jeti Oguz, famous for its red sandstone cliffs and panoramic views. Take a short hike to enjoy the scenery. Drive to Barskoon Gorge. Hike to the Barskoon Waterfalls, including the Tears of the Leopard, The Bowl of Manas, and The Splashes of Champagne. Explore the Fairy Tale Canyon, a surreal landscape of colorful rock formations. Continue to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Stay in a yurt camp by the lake. Enjoy a traditional dinner with a berkutchi (eagle hunter) and learn about this ancient practice. Overnight in yurts.
Day 7: Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
transfer to Bishkek. Hiking in Ak-Say valley on the way
What's included
Pick up & drop off at the airport by airport taxi English speaking Kazakh and Kyrgyz guides with their transport (SUV 4x4) Overnights: 7 - guesthouses (twin/triple rooms) with private bathrooms Breakfasts – 7, Lunches - 7, Dinners – 7. UAZ cars to Kaindy lake Entrance fees to nature parks
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan