Grigorievka Gorge

Grigorievka, called Chon-Ak-Suu locally, runs north from the Issyk-Kul shore into the Kungey Ala-Too, and it is the most accessible of the northern shore gorges: a road climbs about fifteen kilometres up the valley through Tien Shan spruce to three lakes at increasing altitude, with yurt camps and horse hire along the way. Beyond the road the valley continues on foot or horseback to the Kok-Airyk pass at around 3,900 metres and down into the Chong-Kemin valley on the far side, a two or three day trek that is one of the standard routes in the region. In summer the meadows are grazed and yurts sell kymyz. The combination of forest, lakes and easy access makes it the usual day trip from the lake resorts.

What you actually see

• The three lakes - stepped alpine water up the valley.
• Tien Shan spruce - dark conifer forest on the slopes.
• Summer yurts - camps grazing the meadows and selling kymyz.
• The Kok-Airyk route - the trekking pass over into Chong-Kemin.

When to go

June to September; the pass clears around July. Snow closes the upper valley from October. The lower lakes are reachable by car in summer and busy at weekends with lake-resort visitors.

Honest expectations

The valley road is rough and a normal car reaches only the first lakes. Horse hire is negotiated on the spot and prices vary. The pass trek needs a guide or good navigation and proper gear. Yurt camps are seasonal and basic.

Nearby

Semenovka gorge is next door; Cholpon-Ata lies west along the shore.