Kyrgyzstan 2025 Day 7
From Karakol To Cholpon-Ata
Along the Northern Shores of Issyk-Kul 🇰🇬
Day 7 was dedicated to enjoying one of the most maybe famous areas of the country: the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. After breakfast in Karakol, we set off with no rush, knowing the day would be about discovery, scenery, and soaking in the atmosphere rather than covering long distances.
Jeti-Oguz: The Seven Bulls
Our first stop was Jeti-Oguz, famous for its striking red rock formations known as the Seven Bulls. Rising sharply from the green valley floor, the cliffs are impossible to ignore. The contrast between the deep red sandstone and the surrounding landscape makes this one of the most photographed spots in the region – and for good reason!
We took our time here, walking around, taking photos, and enjoying the calm before heading back onto the road.
Semenovskoe and Grigorievskoe Gorges
From Jeti-Oguz, we drove to the northern shore of the Issyk-Lake. Once there, after lunch, we turned north into the mountains to explore two of the most beautiful gorges along Issyk-Kul’s north side: Semenovskoe Gorge and Grigorievskoe Gorge.
Both valleys offered a completely different atmosphere from the open lakeshore. Lush green landscapes, fresh mountain air, forests, and flowing streams made these stops feel cool and refreshing. The roads winding into the gorges were a pleasure to ride, and the scenery invited plenty of stops to take it all in.
These quieter moments in nature are what give balance to the journey. A chance to slow down and appreciate the environment around us.
Arrival in Cholpon-Ata
In the afternoon, we reached Cholpon-Ata, the most famous and touristical lakeside town and a natural place to wind down after several days of riding. Before switching off completely, we visited the ancient stone petroglyphs, scattered across an open field with Issyk-Kul in the background – a fascinating glimpse into the region’s deep history.
Later, it was time to relax. Some of us headed straight to the lake beach – couldn’t resist a swim in the lake! After days in the mountains, cooling off in the clear water of Issyk-Kul felt like the perfect reward.
We ended the day with dinner on a restaurant terrace, enjoying good food, easy conversation, and the soft light of the evening. It was one of those moments that quietly marks the proximity of the closing of a journey: relaxed, unhurried, and full of shared memories.
Up next: The final day.
On Day 8, we ride back to where it all began, returning to Bishkek and bringing our Kyrgyz adventure full circle.
Stay tuned.
📸 All photos by @jakebaggaley.photographer