Located in the Naryn region, at approximately 3,514 meters altitude in the Kok-Kiya valley, close to the Chinese border, Kel Suu Lake unfolds its crystal waters within a canyon landscape, ringed by sheer rock walls and snow-capped peaks. You'll need to walk for about an hour to finally reach this wonderful and unspoiled natural realm, considered one of the finest alpine lakes in Kyrgyzstan. Your effort will be handsomely rewarded by the breathtaking scenery that awaits you.

It's a dreamlike destination for a day's trek, but also for a night spent bivouacking under canvas, to savour the reflection of the starlit sky upon the lake's tranquil surface.

The attractions of a trek to Kel Suu Lake

Reaching Kel Suu Lake is already a wonderful adventure in itself. Whatever route you take, you'll need to cross wooden bridges and rivers through scenery that takes your breath away, alive with vast meadows, snow-topped mountains, yaks drinking clear water, grazing horses galloping in semi-freedom, and yurt camps where you'll be welcomed with a warm cup of tea. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Marco Polo sheep.

Then comes the moment when the lake appears before you in all its turquoise splendour, encircled by steep, jagged cliffs pierced with numerous caves, and guarded to the east by Sary Beles peak (4,726 m). Kel Suu Lake was formed following an earthquake that caused a section of the mountain massif to collapse. It stretches for over 10 km in length, with a width varying from 0.5 to 2 km.

You won't tire of admiring these calm waters displaying every shade of green, shifting with the shadows of passing clouds or the sun's rays. If you're feeling brave, you might venture a few laps in water of remarkable chill (around 5°C), or perhaps prefer to discover the lake on a boat excursion or embark on an exploration of the caves dotting the rock faces.

But what will likely strike you most in this pristine environment is an overwhelming sense of peace and serenity. An invitation to simple contemplation, during which only the busy antics of a marmot might distract your gaze from this enchanting, glimmering lake.

Mandatory permit required

Such a marvel must be earned, and to access it, you must first be authorized to do so. Since Kel Suu Lake sits just 3 passes from China, you'll need to pass through the military checkpoints of this border zone where your passport and residence permit will be required and checked. Obtaining the latter can take more than a day, so advance planning is essential. You'll need to provide a photocopy of your passport as well as payment receipts and navigate various administrative offices.

Good to know

• There is no cellular coverage in this highly remote region.
• Stock up on provisions before heading to the lake, as food is rather scarce there.
• Finally, be sure to check road and weather conditions before departing to avoid finding the area closed.

From Naryn or Tash Rabat, whatever your starting point, a 4x4 driven by an experienced chauffeur comes highly recommended, unless you prefer to discover Kel Suu Lake on a grand horse trek.