Djety-Oguz Hot Springs

Djety-Oguz Hot Springs in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan are set within one of the most visually dramatic landscapes in Central Asia — the Djety-Oguz gorge, whose name means Seven Bulls, describes the red sandstone formations that tower above the valley in shapes resembling a herd of bulls and a broken heart, sculpted by millions of years of erosion from the Tian Shan granite. The calcium-rich springs flow at moderate temperatures from the granite and sandstone geology into bathing facilities that serve both local Kyrgyz holidaymakers and adventurous international visitors exploring the Issyk-Kul region. The broader Issyk-Kul basin — the world's second largest alpine lake, never freezing despite its altitude of 1,600 metres — is one of Central Asia's great natural wonders and Kyrgyzstan's premier tourism destination. The combination of thermal springs, dramatic red rock formations and access to the Tian Shan wilderness makes Djety-Oguz one of the region's most rewarding natural spa destinations.