Altyn Arashan, meaning "Golden Spa" in Kyrgyz, is a magnificent valley situated roughly ten kilometers from Karakol in eastern Kirghizistan. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural hot springs, the Arashan Valley also offers a spectacular hiking experience.

A Brief History

During the Soviet period, 25 snow leopards were trapped in the Altyn Arashan Valley. They were subsequently shipped to zoos around the world. It wasn't until 1975 that Moscow banned hunting in this region. Since then, the valley has been slowly repopulating and is estimated to be home to around twenty snow leopards today.

The Altyn Arashan Valley

Though somewhat challenging to access, Altyn Arashan, situated at 3,000 meters altitude, is absolutely worth the journey. This expansive verdant valley, inhabited by nomads and wild animals, unfolds like a postcard landscape complete with snow-capped peaks, notably the Palatka Peak, which rises to 4,260 meters. Its natural hot springs have earned it a serious reputation among travelers.

Trekking in Altyn Arashan Valley

Altyn Arashan is highly sought after for its trekking opportunities near Karakol. Though the trek presents some challenges in certain sections, the surrounding landscape alone rewards every effort.

The hiking trailhead is located at the southern edge of Teploklyuchenka, more commonly known as Ak-Suu, approximately 12 km east of Karakol.

The first section of the trek takes you along the Arashan River. Surrounded by hillside pines and expansive flowering pastures, the path begins gently through pristine wilderness. Only a few kilometers further do the snow-capped summits reveal themselves, appearing to reign majestically over the entire valley. The landscape is then breathtaking. The route can be challenging in places, with a rocky path that progressively gains altitude. But at the top of the trail awaits a magnificent panorama of snow-capped peaks and verdant valley.

During your ascent, you may spot mountain goats, deer, marmots, or even traces of bears and snow leopards.

But that's not all—after the exertion comes the reward, as you can then relax in the hot springs.

From Arashan, you can continue on a multi-day trek to the stunning Ala Kul Lake or to the Jety-Oguz Valley.

The Hot Springs of Altyn Arashan

The station features several natural hot springs in the open air, along with small pools for soaking in privacy.

The pools are built to harness naturally occurring sulfurous water renowned for its therapeutic properties. A certificate is indeed posted on the door of each cabin touting the curative properties of these waters and detailing all the ailments they can treat.

The water reaches temperatures close to 50°C and makes an excellent reward after a demanding day of hiking.

You can then rest on-site. Several guesthouses welcome visitors for the night and dinner. Many prefer to pitch their tent or sleep in yurts.

The trailhead is located at the southern edge of the town of Ak-Suu (Teploklyuchenka), approximately 12 km east of Karakol.

To get there, take marshrutka number 350 from Karakol. Then simply tell the driver your destination and he'll let you know when to get off. On the return journey, you take the same marshrutka.

With Kirghiz'What?, we take quads to the Golden Spa of Altyn Arashan before beginning the ascent along the river. It's also possible to reach it by Soviet-era jeep with an experienced driver.