Turquoise water
Strong colour among green mountains.
Guliaim Aiylchy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Guliaim Aiylchy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Guliaim Aiylchy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Vilya Shoni — CC BY 4.0 · Vilya Shoni — CC BY 4.0
Kol-Tor is a small turquoise lake at the top of Kegeti Gorge, south-east of Bishkek, and one of the most popular day hikes from the capital. Although relatively close, its colour matches the remote lakes of the country's high interior, so it draws many walkers in summer. The lake has little written history, being part of mountain pastures that have become a well-known hiking goal from Bishkek. Kegeti Gorge divides into two branches: the western one has a waterfall of about 20 m and the eastern one has the lake. Sources differ slightly on its height, giving roughly 2,700 to 2,750 m. The path starts among spruce trees beside a fast river, then climbs over pastures rich in wildflowers in early summer. The lake appears suddenly after the last slope, turquoise between green mountains, and the valley below has a small camp of yurts. The water stays very cold even in August. The trailhead is about 61 km in a straight line from Bishkek and 80 to 90 km by road, around 2 hours. Guides differ on the hike, from 7.5 to 14 km each way, with about 900 m of ascent and 3 to 4 hours up. So do not start late, and bring proper shoes, water and a jacket. July and August are the best months, when the ice has fully melted from the lake.
Strong colour among green mountains.
Colourful pastures in early summer.
Spruce, river and yurts.
Kegeti Gorge, south-east of Bishkek, Chuy Region
Yes, it is one of the most popular day trips, but leave early because the drive and hike make a long day.
It is moderate, with about 900 m of ascent, and suits people with reasonable fitness.