The Choñ Kyzyl-Suu Gorge

Nestled in the heart of Kyrgyzstan, Chong Kyzyl-Suu gorge offers tourists the perfect respite from the mundane and monotonous everyday life. A haven of natural beauty, the place is a traveler's paradise. Located 60 km west of the picturesque town of Karakol, Chong-Kyzyl-Suu gorge is known for its unique and breathtaking scenic beauty. The name of the gorge - "the big red water" - is derived from the red clay that colors the water in the river that runs through the bottom of it. The unique phenomenon is a sight to behold and is arguably one of the main attractions of the gorge. With a length of around 40 km, the slopes of the gorge are covered with lush green meadows that offer a perfect backdrop for picnicking, hiking or just relaxing. At an altitude of about 2000 m, tourists will find fir forests that are home to a wide range of mushrooms and berries. Wildlife is also abundant in the Chong-Kyzyl-Suu gorge. The forest in the area is home to animals such as wild boar, chukar, roe deer, pheasants and marmots. The smaller Dzhyly-Suu gorge boasts hot springs that are enriched with hydrogen sulfide, offering nature enthusiasts a unique opportunity to bathe in the warm mineral-rich waters. The temperature of the water is a delightful 43°C, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. If you are an adventure enthusiast, the upper part of the gorge offers several passes such as '50 years of Kyrgyzstan' (4600m), Ulyanovtsev (4490m), Nadezhda (4450m), Zagadka (4400m) and Ashu-Tor (3900m), through which you can get to the glacier Kolpakovsky. The glacier is one of the largest in Terskey Ala-Too and promises to take your breath away with its sheer size. In conclusion, a trip to Chong Kyzyl-Suu gorge promises to be an unforgettable experience. With natural beauty that is second to none, a range of outdoor activities on offer and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, this place has it all. The only thing left for you to do is pack your bags and experience it for yourself!