Kel Suu is arguably THE most beautiful place in Kyrgyzstan. Sitting at 3,500m, the lake was naturally formed by an earthquake which shattered parts of the mountain ranges around it. Its turquoise water is now wedged amongst a rocky canyon that is unlike anything you've ever seen.

Kel Suu is incredibly remote and difficult to reach. It has not long been on the tourist radar, but is now one of the must visit sights, so you definitely won’t be the only person there. The only road to get there is very rough, and you’ll need a 4x4. Plus, you’ll also need to obtain a border permit from the CBT Office in Naryn because it’s in a sensitive location near the Chinese border.

You’ll pass through the incredible Kok Kiya Valley before reaching the lake. This valley is where you can stay the night in a yurt camp or pitch your tent. From there, it’s still a 9km hike to reach Kel Suu, which you can do on foot or horseback. Otherwise, vehicles can reach further, almost to the lake’s shore.

How to get there? The only way to reach Kel Suu is by hiring a driver or joining a tour. It takes around 5 hours one way to reach the lake from Naryn on a very rough and remote road. The starting cost is usually around 16,000 som per vehicle, which can be split between travellers. It's best to contact the CBT in Naryn to find out the details and get a permit.

Where to stay? You’ll most likely want to stay somewhere near Kel Suu, because it’s a long drive to get there and back in a day from Naryn. There are several yurt camps set up now close to the lake in Kok Kiya Valley (still a decent walk away) where you can stay and get hot meals.