| North Tien Shan |
Northern Tien-Shan - consists of Kyrgyzski, Zailisky (not to be missed with Zaalaisky range in Pamir mountains), Talassky and Kungei Ala-Too ranges. In general North Tien Shan does not offer the most dramatic treks with mountain valleys and high peaks in Kyrgyzstan, except for Kyrgyz range which offer good trekss without major transportation issues and permits.
Kyrgyz range
The valleys in Kyrgyz range would include Ala Archa, Alamedin, Issyk Ata and many others but due to difficult passage between the valleys almost have no trekking routes can be reccommend to trekkers. All the valleys listed above are good spots for day trips and will fit all recreational walkers and hikers. Trekkers may try to reach Alamedin valley starting from Issyk Ata by trekking over Pervomaisky pass (4200 m). Trek detailes and outlined itinerary can be found here.
Kungei Ala Too
Kungei Ala Too is a Kyrgyz for "mountains faced to the sun".
The range surround Issyk Kul lake from the north and separate it from Kemin
valley. It is possible to trek along Kemin valley to Issyk Kul lake either over
Kok Airyk pass or North Ak Suu pass but the valley itself is a boring 50 km
walk along poor jeep track.
Trekking routes from Almaty to Issyk Kul lake over Kemin valley and North
Ak Suu pass and back used to be popular at the Soviet times but no longer possible
since the border crossing is only allowed at designated border posts.
Grogorievskoe and Semenovskoe valleys are good spots for day hikes
and horse riding. Usualy overcrowed during summer months with tourists staying
in resorts on Issyk Kul lake and locals spending week ends.
Remember that some areas should be avoided unless you are on organized tour
with a local guide who knows the area.