​In the heart of Kyrgyzstan's ethnically diverse south rises the exceptionally verdant Fergana Range. At the base of the Grandfather Mountain, or Gora Babash-Ata, rests Arslanbob. An expansive walnut woodland encircles this sleepy Uzbek village, casting deep shades of green that rise up the flanks of the great mountain to meet with a florid subalpine. Bright tilled grain fields bounded by broad arrays of wildflower nestle amidst the forests, and sharp blue lakes punctuate the jagged limestone crags that tower high above. Further afield, the walnut forests give way to juniper and reaches of wild onion and hardy lily. Surreal sandstone ribs erupt from amidst the canopies, etched by translucent rivers.

We now present to you the Forests and Fields of Jalal Abad Trek - an exquisite dive into Kyrgyzstan's dreamlike near-south. Over the course of the 10 day trek we will cross the breadth of the North Fergana, from the arid valleys of Karakul, past a cerulean sacred lake, into the very heart of the walnut forest. We will carry onward eastbound to another chain of immaculate lakes via a stunning alpine valley and pass. This is an ideal trek for those looking to discover valleys lost in time, where life moves along at its own languid rhythm. 

This hike is perfect for moderately experienced trekkers who have completed at least a couple overnight trips before and are comfortable walking for up to 8 hours a day. Throughout the itinerary we'll have multiple opportunities to enjoy local springtime delicacies, such as kaymak and koumiss. For lovers of variegated shades of green and vast arrays of wildflowers, as well as for those seeking to engage more intimately with the unique nomadic culture, look no further.