Sulutor Lakes

Sulutor Lakes are located in the high mountains near Too-Ashuu Pass, through which the highway connecting Bishkek and Osh (that is, northern and southern Kyrgyzstan) runs. The turnoff to the lakes is right before the entrance to the tunnel leading from the Chuy Valley to the Suusamyr Valley. This is a perfect place for a short break on your way to southern Kyrgyzstan: after completing the epic climb to the pass, you will most likely want to pause and take a walk in this unusual high-altitude landscape. The climate here differs greatly from that in the valley. Vegetation is sparse, and even in summer the temperature rarely rises above +15°C. Nevertheless, this mountain tundra has its own charm.

From Bishkek, follow the highway toward Kara-Balta until the turn to Sosnovka (just before the bridge over the Kara-Balta River). In Sosnovka there is an ecological checkpoint where a road fee must be paid (you can pay on site or in advance via Pay24 terminals or a local bank’s mobile app). Immediately after the checkpoint, the mountains begin.

Be prepared — a challenging road lies ahead. At first, the highway winds moderately, following the riverbed. On one of the bends, you can see a beautiful waterfall on the right (on the Turuk stream, a tributary of the Kara-Balta River), where there is a convenient stop. Further on, the ascent becomes steeper, the mountains grow higher and closer, and separate switchbacks appear as the road climbs higher terraces. A sharp right turn, several avalanche galleries, a viewpoint overlooking the valley — and finally the last section of serpentine brings you to the northern portal of the tunnel named after Kusein Kolbaev.

Before entering the tunnel, turn right onto a dirt road. You can leave your car there and walk about 2.5 km, or drive this stretch (it may be difficult in places for a regular sedan — check the road conditions). You’ve reached your destination!

Strictly follow traffic rules, especially overtaking regulations. In Kyrgyzstan, drivers can be undisciplined and may cross solid lines even on blind uphill turns. You will need to anticipate and sometimes compensate for others’ mistakes. Dress warmly: even if it is +35°C in the valley, it is unlikely to be warm at the top. It is windier and wetter here. The season is short — snow is already possible in September.

The road from the highway to the lakes is straightforward and clearly visible — there is nowhere to get lost. At the second (farther) lake the road ends, but a trail continues toward a pass across the main watershed of the Kyrgyz Range. If you have the strength, time, and desire, you can hike all the way up. If you prefer not to hike but still want to see what lies on the other side (without continuing toward Toktogul), you can return to the highway and drive through the long tunnel that effectively “cuts through” the ridge. Then enjoy the view of the Suusamyr Valley and drive back.