Salamatsyzby! This is Sugiura from ASHU TRAVEL, your guide to scenic horse riding tours in Central Asia.
When it comes to classic sights in Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul Lake and the Manas statue come to mind, but if you’d like to see something a little different, we recommend Jeti-Oguz .
Here you’ll find striking scenery such as the red rock formations of the “Seven Bulls” and the legendary “Broken Heart” rock. It’s a hidden gem that’s perfect for enjoying photogenic views and relaxing!
What Is Jeti-Oguz?
Jeti-Oguz, on the eastern side of Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul Lake about 30 minutes by car from the town of Karakol, is a popular sight that’s perfect for trekking and photography.
Its most striking feature is the bright red rock mountains towering amid the great outdoors.
The name Jeti-Oguz means “seven bulls”. In English it’s called “Seven Bulls,” and the name is said to come from the rocks looking like a herd of bulls.
The contrast between the red-earth rock faces, the green valley and the snow-capped mountains in the distance is beautiful, and every angle is a stunning view.
The Legend of Jeti-Oguz
A rather sad love story has been handed down in this land.
Long, long ago, two men fought fiercely over a beautiful woman, and after a terrible duel, both lost their lives.
The woman, grieving their deaths, was heartbroken, and it’s said that a rock split clean in two, known as the “Broken Heart,” was formed.
It’s so powerful that you can’t help thinking, “Is this the kind of shock a broken heart brings…?” If you’re ever down after a breakup, gazing at the vast landscape of Jeti-Oguz might be just the thing.
Highlights of Jeti-Oguz
If you visit Jeti-Oguz, it would be a shame to just look at the rocks! Before you go, check out the scenery and experiences unique to this place!
(1) The Seven Bulls
The red rock mountains that symbolize Jeti-Oguz. They’re called the “Seven Bulls,” but if you actually count them, depending on the angle they can look like 8 or even 10.
…Well, let’s not worry about the details and just enjoy the dynamic scenery!
Depending on the time of day, the rock faces turn pink in the morning and deep crimson in the evening, so it’s fun to aim for the best moment for photos. You’ll get beautiful shots from a little distance away.
(2) Broken Heart
The rock split clean in two that’s the setting of the legend. Look closely at its shape and it really is heart-shaped! It looks even more dramatic in the morning light. If you’re staying nearby, be sure to photograph it in the morning.
(3) Kok-Jayik (Valley of Flowers)
Head deeper into Jeti-Oguz and climb about 9 km up the gorge, and the stunning “Valley of Flowers (Kok-Jayik)” awaits.
In summer, colorful alpine flowers bloom everywhere, and yurts (traditional nomad homes) dot the landscape. It’s like wandering into the world of Heidi, Girl of the Alps. Scenery like this makes it easy to see why Kyrgyzstan is called “the Switzerland of Central Asia.”
Getting to Jeti-Oguz
Jeti-Oguz is about 30 km from the city of Karakol. Here’s how to get there.
- Minibus (marshrutka): Take No. 371 or 372 from near Ak-Tilek Bazaar (about 1 hour)
- Taxi: From Karakol (negotiate the fare)
- Join a tour
You can explore the valley on foot, so a leisurely stroll is also a great option.
*Bus routes may change.
Head to Jeti-Oguz, Land of Great Nature and Legend
Jeti-Oguz, with its rows of strange red rocks, isn’t just a scenic spot; it’s a mysterious place where legends live on. Enjoy walking and taking photos amid magnificent nature while letting your mind wander to its history and stories. Go a little further and the life of nomads and vast highlands await. Enjoy everything Jeti-Oguz has to offer!
If You’re Going to Jeti-Oguz, Choose a Worry-Free ASHU TRAVEL Tour
If you want to enjoy plenty of horse riding in Kyrgyzstan, we recommend our Jeti-Oguz tour.
Go beyond Jeti-Oguz, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most famous scenic spots, to a land of silence that isn’t on any map. A full-fledged 6-day horse riding tour where you sway on horseback and experience nomadic life. Ups and downs, a bit of canter: it’s packed with everything that makes riding in Kyrgyzstan great.
A Japanese-speaking guide accompanies you, so getting around is smooth and worry-free
Why not join an ASHU TRAVEL tour, where you can travel comfortably without worrying about language barriers, and set off on a journey to experience the great nature and legends of Jeti-Oguz?
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