Fairytale canyon "Skazka" — Attraction in Issyk-Kul Region

The Fairy Tale Canyon is located on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, 4km from Tosor village. This is a true natural wonder. Water, wind, and sun have produced whimsical, fabulous shapes here. While some resemble mythical creatures (dragon ridge), the others look like other ordinary animals (camels, hippos, and elephants), while others portray amazing intricate structures such as castles, towers, and even China’s Great Wall. Due to particular nature of the soil, it is recommended to visit the canyon in dry weather.

There are many trails leading into the maze-like canyon. For first time visitors, it is advised to have a guide to ease the hike into the canyon, as one can get lost if not familiar with the trails. At certain particular views of the canyon, it may seem that you have landed on another planet due to the unique and intricate structure caused by the water, wind and sun over thousands of years. Totally awesome and out of...

If you read lonely planet's description of this place, you would probably consider giving it a miss. You would have made a huge mistake. For an entry fee of 50s, this place rocks... (Forgive the pun.)

The rock formations are beautiful, mystical, multicoloured. It is truly stunning.

You can walk up a fairly long windy path or drive if you have a car. Our rental car was absolutely not a 4x4 and we could easily drive to the rocks.

We spent an hour or so meandering through the mesmerising rock formations and could have easily spent longer there if the weather had held up!

Definitely visit this...

Absolutely stunning! We went from Tosor which I recommend as it’s nearby and also a beautiful place in itself with the mountains and nearby lake. It’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Tosor walking but you can take a taxi for about 1,100 somm (probably cheaper if you are a local or speak the language). We ended up getting a marashuktra on the way for 100 somm (10 min ride). Then it’s about a 2 hour hike if you want to see everything. Cost of entry is free so worth walking around if you have the time. We hitched a ride in the way back and really enjoyed our visit....