Extreme Kyrgyzstan: the Tian Shan through High-Mountain Lakes

descriptionDescription

Kyrgyzstan is dream country for lovers of extreme trekking and mountaineering. The Tian Shan — the Celestial Mountains — hold some of the most staggering alpine landscapes outside the Himalayas, with peaks over 7,000 m, turquoise lakes at 4,000 m and eternal glaciers. This 11-day itinerary is designed for trekkers in excellent physical condition with altitude experience. It starts in Bishkek, from where you fly to Karakol, gateway to the eastern Tian Shan. The star trek is the climb to Lake Ala-Kul — a turquoise jewel at 3,560 m ringed by snowy peaks that changes color with the light, from emerald to deep blue. The route continues to the country's south, to remote Lenin Peak (7,134 m) base camp on the Tajik border, where expeditions from around the world prepare ascents of one of the most accessible 7,000ers. The Alay Valley, between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, offers trekking among isolated Kyrgyz yurts with views of the Pamir range. Overnights in tents, mountain shelters and yurts. Elevations between 3,000 and 4,500 m. Previous high-mountain trekking experience is mandatory.