Scenic view of Issyk Lake nestled among forested mountains.

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Turgen Gorge

Expand your day trip with a visit to this neighboring scenic gorge.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Turgen Gorge sits close to Issyk Lake, making it a popular addition for full-day itineraries. Visitors usually combine the alpine lake with a hike to the local waterfall or a drive up to high-altitude pastures.

You will need reliable transportation to cover the distances between these stops. Guided tours frequently bundle both locations into a single route.

Fast-flowing mountain river surrounded by autumn foliage and mountains.

Bear Waterfall (Medvezhiy)

1.5 hours1.3 km hike

This 30-meter high waterfall sits in the forest. You can reach it via a relatively easy 1.3-kilometer hike. The trail is suitable for beginners.

People wading in a shallow river leading into a mountain lake.

Trout Farm

1.5 hoursPopular lunch stop

This facility allows visitors to catch their own trout. Staff will then cook your catch for lunch. It is a very popular stop after hiking to the nearby waterfall.

Assy Plateau

3-4 hoursRequires 4x4 vehicle

This vast, high-altitude summer pasture features an astronomical observatory. Reaching the plateau requires a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the terrain from the gorge. It offers a distinct steppe landscape compared to the lake.