Song-Kul Lake

Song-Kul (also spelt Son-Kul, Song-Köl or Sonkol) is a large alpine lake at 3,016 m in the Naryn region, between inner spurs of the Tian Shan. It is bordered by the Song-Kul-Too and Moldo-Too ranges and protected pastures, which makes it ideal for low-impact, eco-friendly travel.

The shores are low and grassy. The lake is fed by mountain streams and drains into the Naryn river. From late September until late May it is usually frozen and the road is closed.

Where to stay

Chaek and Kochkor are the closest towns, but in summer — especially July and August — shepherd families set up yurt camps along the shore. Staying with them is the whole point: fresh kaymak cream, bread from the stove, kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) and a sky full of stars.

Getting there

By 4×4 over the Kalmak-Ashuu pass (3,446 m), or — much better — on horseback over two or three days from Kyzart. See our Song-Kul horse trek.