Kara-Shoro
Kara-Shoro National Park
Kara-Shoro Natural Park is situated on the southeastern slopes of the Fergana Range, within the Uzgen District of the Osh Region. The Kara-Shoro State Natural National Park was established in 1996 in the Uzgen District of the Osh Region. Covering over 8,500 hectares, this remote area, far from major highways and large towns, enchants visitors with its tranquil mountain landscapes, fresh air, and therapeutic mineral springs.
The Kara-Shoro Natural Park is located at the junction of two of the world’s greatest mountain systems: the Tian Shan and the Pamir-Alay. At the heart of the park flows the Kara-Shoro River, a mountain stream running westward, fed by numerous tributaries. The most significant of these are Kachyraly, Kara-Bulak, Balam-Kaldy, and Chon-Kulubek. The park is home to 12 mineral springs and a koumiss therapy center. Its landscape features spruce, walnut, and juniper forests, while much of the area is covered by lush pastures.
The recreational zone of the Kara-Shoro Park represents a yurt camp, which is intended for rest and guests. Visitors can rest in national Kyrgyz yurts and try national dairy cocktails. On the territory of Kara-Shoro, there are more than twenty mineral springs with carbonated waters of crystal purity, having natural carbon dioxide effervescence, unique “iron” taste, and curative properties. So, many visitors come back year after year to follow the course of treatment by drinking Kara-Shoro mineral water, which flows directly from underground sources. Famed for its purity, cold temperature, and amazing health benefits, this water is not only famous in this locality but all over Asia and Europe.
The therapeutic waters of Kara-Shoro
Kara-Shoro Park is renowned for its mineral springs. Among all the carbonated mineral water deposits in Kyrgyzstan, this one is located in the most picturesque area—mountainous, forested, and along the banks of a clean, relatively calm river.
The carbonated water of Kara-Shoro boasts the highest salt content in Kyrgyzstan (over 40 g/L). Additionally, the spring water contains exceptionally high concentrations of microelements such as iron, zinc, and barium. The carbonated waters of the Kara-Shoro area surface in two springs.
In the “Kara-Shoro 1” spring, the water is slightly salty, with an iron taste, odorless, cold, and has a salt content of around 6 g/L and carbon dioxide levels of 1.5–1.7 g/L. The “Kara-Shoro 2” spring, located 12 meters to the east (further upstream), has half the mineralization of the first spring. Despite the same carbon dioxide content, the water tastes less salty, creating the impression of a fresh, highly carbonated drink. These mineral waters are widely recognized for their healing properties.
Things to do in Kara-Shoro
- Hike through the park and if you are lucky have a glanse at the local wildlife
- Experience jailoo life without wifi and electricity
- Sleep in a yurt
- Drink fermented horsemilk. (Be careful though, it can be quite heavy for your stomach to handle for the first times)
- Visit hot springs
- Ride a horse
Page updated 2.12.2024
