Chatkal Valley

The Chatkal is a long valley in the far west of Kyrgyzstan, cut off by ranges on every side and reached only over passes that are open a few months a year, which has kept it one of the least visited inhabited parts of the country. The river is the draw for the small number of rafting expeditions that run it, a multi-day descent through gorges with serious water. Otherwise the valley is pasture, small villages and the Besh-Aral reserve at its western end, which protects wild fruit forest and Menzbier's marmot, found only in this corner of the Tien Shan. Horse treks cross from Chatkal toward Sary-Chelek and Arslanbob. Facilities are essentially none and every visit is an expedition arranged in advance.

What you actually see

• The Chatkal river - the rafting run through gorges.
• Besh-Aral reserve - protected fruit forest and rare marmots.
• Isolated villages - settlements cut off for much of the year.
• High pass approaches - the crossings that keep the valley remote.

When to go

June to September, when the passes are open. Rafting runs at high water in June and July. Snow closes access from October and the valley is effectively sealed until late spring.

Honest expectations

There is no straightforward way in and no scheduled transport. Rafting here is expedition-grade and run by a handful of operators. Parts of the valley fall in reserve or border zones needing permits. Accommodation is homestays or camping, and supplies must be carried.

Nearby

Sary-Chelek lies southeast; Talas is over the range to the northeast.