Song Kul is a stunning, remote alpine lake in the Naryn region south of Bishkek. Sitting at just over 3,000m, it is surrounded by mountain ranges and deep valleys where nomads and shepherds have allowed their livestock to graze in the summer months for generations, otherwise known as a "jailoo".

It is one of the epicentres of Kyrgyzstan’s booming tourism industry (along with Issyk Kul Lake), as it's considered one of the top places in the country to visit.

How to get there? You can reach Song Kul in several different ways: on foot, by horse or by car (4x4 recommended). However, horse riding to the lake has undoubtedly become a must do, with horse trek tours leaving every day in summer.

Nearest town: Most horse treks or hikes to Song Kul Lake begin in the small village of Kyzart, just 70km west of the major town of Kochkor. It’s relatively easy to reach from either Bishkek or Issyk Kul.

How long to spend there? Most horse treks or hiking trips take about 3-4 days in total from Kyzart and back. Accommodation is generally yurt camps, with plenty of them set up around the lake's shore in summer. Treks and tours typically include a night camping at the lake in a yurt.