In this complete travel guide, you’ll read everything about the Tash Rabat Caravanserai in Kyrgyzstan: the legends and facts, the importance of this caravanserai during the Silk Road, how to get to Tash Rabat, where to stay, hiking and horse trekking in the area and much more!
Tash Rabat is one of Kyrgyzstan’s rare historical treasures. Along with the Burana Tower in the Chüy Valley, the two monuments reveal the country’s connection to the Silk Road.
The ancient Tash Rabat caravanserai is nestled in a luscious valley at an altitude of 3000 meters. The area’s rolling hills have been carved out by the Tash-Rabat River which is a vital water source for grazing horses, cows, sheep and yaks. The soothing and grounding energy of this place is why I love coming here.
From its gracious yurt owners to its striking scenery, there is so much that Tash Rabat offers. Although the monument is the area’s main attraction, you must not miss out on hiking or horse riding here.
Tash Rabat can be visited as a day trip from Naryn (two hours drive) or in combination with a visit to Kel Suu Lake and the Shaar waterfall.
Here is the full travel guide on Tash-Rabat: how to get there, where to stay, hiking and horse trekking in the area, what to pack, and everything else you need to know to visit this mysterious caravanserai in Kyrgyzstan!
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About Tash Rabat Caravanserai: Legends & Facts
The Tash Rabat monument was a crucial cog in Silk Road history.
The Silk Road’s web of ancient roads pathed the way for traders to export goods from the east to the west. It is said the network began around 130 B.C. and was in use until around 1400 A.D. The routes bridged the Far East to China, then through the Middle East and Europe.
Battling extreme climates, surviving on scarce food and dodging wild animals, the journeys that merchants took were expeditions in themselves! The trips were made more treacherous by hungry-eyed bandits who would rob the caravans which were packed with luxury items such as silks and spices.
To gain rest and shelter, merchants sought refuge in caravanserais dotted across the Silk Road routes. Fast forward more than 2,000 years and these roadside inns are still in operation (think American motels and truck drivers).
Who built Tash Rabat?
In Kyrgyz, Tash Rabat translates to a “stone castle” or “fortress”. It was very much a fortress for the merchants who had braved the bleak elements.
The Tash Rabat caravanserai is said to have been built in the 15th century and has stood rigidly against wars and political regimes. There are very few historical sites left in Kyrgyzstan so this fortress is a stark reminder of how precious this place is. The stone castle has also been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.
Some historians say it was a Buddhist monastery before it became an inn. Others say it was built as a Christian monastery. One fact we do know is that this is a historic monument and it’s such an important emblem of Kyrgyzstan.
Tash Rabat Legends
One story goes that a powerful Khan and his two sons lived in the valley. As the Khan grew older, he had his wealth to hand over and needed to decide to who to give it.
The elder son told him that he would strengthen the Khanate by expanding his connections with the traveling caravans and building on his father’s legacy. The Khan was content with the elder son’s plan, so after he died, the elder son inherited his fortune. The elder son was fascinated by the merchants and caravans who crossed their lands, and so built the caravanserai to accommodate their needs.
The stone structure stood strong and many marveled at its greatness. Tash-Rabat’s prominence blossomed among traders and it became an established inn for the Silk Road farers. As the caravanserai’s notoriety grew, so did the new Khan’s wealth. Time passed and the Khan died, leaving the site in the younger son’s hands.
Fuelled by greed, the younger son robbed passing caravans and put the stolen wealth into the caravanserai. His hatred festered for soldiers and he attacked innocent civilians. It is said neighboring Khans declared war on him and descended on the fortress – but the Khan himself was not protected by his inherited four walls. It is said he was killed and Tash-Rabat was left to the mercy of the valley.
Another tale of Tash-Rabat involves love.
Some speak of a father and son who constructed the building together. They were mountain-dwellers and so spent time structuring the building block-by-block. The duo were in the final stages of completing the fortress – all that was needed was a few more stones to top the roof – when they saw a caravan approach in the distance.
Legend has it the father told his son to help him finish the roof before they wandered over to the strangers. The son ignored him and wandered over to the caravan, where he was met with a woman of outstanding beauty. He hopped on her caravan and they went off together. So, the roof was left deserted… much like the father.
The legends are whispers from older Kyrgyz people and have been whittled down on the internet, so when you’re there, be sure to ask the locals for their take on Tash Rabat.
Where is Tash Rabat?
Tash Rabat is located in the At-Bashy District in the Naryn Province. It sits in the south west of Kyrgyzstan, where a myriad of mountains border neighbouring China. Its geographic location was entwined with the Silk Road and now is integral to its shepherds and wandering nomads.
Despite Tash Rabat being in a somewhat isolated spot, loneliness will not find you here! The area is also home to mountain peak Gory Dzhamantau, Chatyr Kul lake and the Tash-Rabat River.
How to get to Tash Rabat
You can rent a car from Bishkek and make the journey from the capital which will take around five hours. Consider the rough roads and your driving capabilities… you don’t want to be scuppered with a broken-down car and no phone signal!
How to get from Bishkek to Tash Rabat by public transport
To get from Bishkek to Tash Rabat by public transport, you must first pass through the main city of Naryn which is situated 114km north of the monument.
How to get from Bishkek to Naryn
The cheapest way to get from Bishkek to Naryn is by taking a marshrutka. These vans are shared taxis which tend to operate in former Soviet countries. They work similarly to buses, but you can jump on a marshrutka anywhere along its route if there are seats available.
From Bishkek to Naryn, daily marshrutkas leave from the New Bus Station in Bishkek. It costs around 500 KGS for a 5-hour journey.
How to get from Naryn to Tash Rabat
There is no public transport going from Naryn to Tash Rabat. It’s possible to arrange a taxi from the bus station, where you negotiate directly with taxi drivers and this will cost around 3,000 KGS.
If you struggle to find other travelers to share a taxi with for the route, another option would be to go by a shared taxi to village At-Bashy, which is 35km south-west of Naryn. From At-Bashy, then take a taxi to Tash Rabat for around 100 KGS.
Tours to Tash Rabat
As Tash Rabat is so remote, you can also explore this treasure as part of a tour. I’d recommend combining it with a visit to the remote Kel Suu Lake and other places in the region (see Places to visit near Tash Rabat below). I can help you with a customized private tour to Tash Rabat.
I also organize adventure tours that include exploring Tash Rabat, going on a hike/ horse trek to Panda Pass – see Things to do in Tash Rabat below) and an off-road adventure to Kel Suu Lake.
Are you looking for a customized guided tour in Kyrgyzstan or elsewhere in Central Asia? Or would you like help with planning your itinerary and organizing your trip with confidence?
👉 Explore my Central Asia tours and itinerary planning services!
When is the best time to visit Tash Rabat
The Tash Rabat Caravanseria can be visited all-year round, but as with any mountainous place, it’s trickier to get there during colder months.
The road to Tash Rabat is the hard to access between November and April due to the weather. Hiking is sadly a no-go during this time too due to the nature of the terrain. If you do venture out and drive to the monument, prepare for snow climates in high altitudes.
However, for how limiting winter can be, summer really brings the goods. From June to September, springs and streams gush through the valley, rolling out the red carpet for its wildlife. Birds of prey swoop in the blue skies and yaks graze in the meadows.
A fundamental part of Kyrgyz culture is its horses and during the warmer months, Tash Rabat is the place to ride. With a guide, you can savor every moment of a Kyrgyzstan summer while on horseback.
Note: Being nestled in the mountains, you are bound to come across a variety of weather fronts. Embrace it! It’s part of Kyrgyzstan’s charm.
Summer in Tash-Rabat is also a haven for hikers and its landscape provides an abundance of routes. While walking, it’s possible to spot shepherd settlements, giving you a glimpse into nomadic life.
Where to stay: Tash Rabat Yurt Camps
There are a few yurt camps dotted about in the area providing shelter, warmth and mugs of steaming chai tea.
Most of them have coal stoves to keep the domed homes toasty during the chilly evenings. Even in summer, the temperatures can drop to minus figures, so the yurt camps are a welcome sight to wandering travelers.
Just rock up, knock on their doors and ask for availability. Many yurt camps have dogs so approach calmly and be respectful to the owners. Prices range around 1,500 KGS, with breakfast and dinner included.
For those with the backpacking bug, there are endless spots for wild camping. Ensure you are prepared for the temperatures to drop during the night and that you are not pitching on someone’s land.
Things to do in Tash Rabat
1. Visit Tash Rabat Caravanserai
The Tash Rabat caravanserai isn’t very big. You’ll only need 20 minutes to visit this stone fortress as Tash Rabat caravanserai isn’t very big.
The length of its sides is 34 and 36 meters. When entering the building via the high portal, you’ll come into a long corridor from where you can access the 31-dome shaped rooms.
Most of these rooms are small and immersed in darkness. One of the rooms has a zindan, a hole in the ground where prisoners were kept.
The main corridor leads to the dome-shaped central hall where small holes in the ceiling let some daylight in. You can also walk on the roof, which is accessed from the right side when facing the entrance. Just be careful that you don’t stumble into one of the holes…
The entrance fee to visit Tash Rabat caravanserai is 100 KGS. There are no official opening times so if it is closed, go across to the yurt camp immediately across from the site. The attendant of the monument lives here, so you can organize your entry with her.
2. Walk to the viewpoint near the caravanserai
Facing the Tash-Rabat monument, there is a high hill top to the left. Head here for sunrise or sunset for a panoramic view over the valley, yurt camps and neighboring peaks.
The walk up is slightly steep but it’s short – only 20 minutes. Follow a path up from the left of the fortress for about 10 minutes. Then head left towards the middle of the ‘saddle’ which connects the two hill tops. Keep walking up and then turn right to make your way to the top of the hill. This hike doesn’t have rocky terrain, it is grass meadows.
3. Hiking/ horse riding to Panda Pass (4025 m/ 13205 ft)
- Distance: 12km (one-way)
- Hiking time: 8 hours
- Horse riding time: 7 hours
- Elevation: +1000/-1000 meters
- Difficulty: Medium
Panda Pass is a mountain pass offering an abundance of views of Chatyr Kul Lake. The trail to Panda Pass can be done in a day for strong hikers, or on horseback.
The trail starts at Tash Rabat Caravanserai. Follow the dirt road into the valley until the first river. This is your first river crossing of two.
Next, pass by a small clay house which should be on your right. You will still be in valley territory (think green meadows). Continue until you see a third river, and go into the first valley on your right.
You will have done around two hours of hiking at this point. Then continue to the path on the right. If you don’t take this route, you will have to cross a third river which is not ideal!
Continue walking – the trail remains visible. You’ll see multiple animal trails (and their poo!) but they will all head in the same direction so follow them. You’ll be in the heart of a rocky-green/yellow valley (colors depend on the month!). Keep walking for another hour until you see a valley opening up to your left. The trail goes that way too.
Head down the hill and up again. You’ll notice the path gradually ascends and the landscape around you starts changing: less vegetation as it becomes more arid and rocky. Take some time to check out the strata in the layers of rock while you pass – it’s beautiful!
Next, follow the path until the end of the valley and the route will take you left into another valley. Now the challenging part begins!
Head up the steep path – it’s not marked but you’ll be able to spot routes trod by shepherds. Like any good mountain, the final part is the biggest haul… it’s a steep incline on loose scree for around 45 minutes before you reach Panda Pass.
If you’re not too knackered from gasping at the view, you can continue further to another viewpoint. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Return the same way back. Tip: this trail is also marked on the maps.me app, which can be used offline! Find the GPS coordinates here.
Side note: I organize tours to Tash Rabat (and other beautiful places in the region), that include a (horse) trek to Panda Pass.
4. Hike to Chatyr Kul lake (3500m/ 11482m)
- Distance: 22km (one-way)
- Hiking time: 2 days
- Elevation: +1338 / -703 meters
- Difficulty: Medium
Chatyr Kul Lake, translated in Kyrgyz as “heavenly lake”, is an alpine wonder which sits between the At Bashy and Torugart-Too mountain ranges. It is the third largest lake in the country, following Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul.
Chatyr Kul at an altitude of 3,500 meters so during winter, the water freezes over and it becomes an ice rink for its wildlife. Jokes aside, snow leopards do roam here but they are shy creatures so the chances that you’ll see them are very (verrrry) low.
To hike from Tash-Rabat to Chatyr Kul Lake, you’ll first have to hike to Panda Pass (read above). Once you’ve reached the peak, go right to the next ridge and follow the trail down to the lake shore.
You can wild camp by the waters or stay at one of the few yurt camps on the lake’s shore.
To return to Tash-Rabat, take the same route back through Panda Pass. You could also make a rounded-loop back, just download the free app maps.me and check out the trail on there. You can also find the GPS coordinates here.
Important note: You need a border permit to get to Chatyr Kul. You can apply for it at least two weeks in advance by emailing the CBT (tourist information centre) in Naryn. Permits cost between 1,000 and 2,000 KGS and you will need a clear photo of your passport. You do not need a border permit if you are just going up to Panda Pass and returning back down.
5. Horse riding in Tash Rabat
You can explore the above two routes on horseback, however, most yurt camps will only offer the trek from Panda Pass from Tash-Rabat as a special permit is required to access Chatyr Kul (read above).
I’ve only done this trip already 7 times on horseback, as I offer it on my adventure tours. It’s such a cool day trip and far easier while horse riding – especially on the way back as you’ll be zapped on energy and it’s a long way to come.
You don’t need any riding experience to go on horseback to Panda Pass. The stallions are well-trained and you’ll have a guide with great knowledge with you. Do wear some cycling pants though to stop your bum from getting sore on the 7-hour journey.
To arrange a two-day horse trip from Tash-Rabat to Chatyr Kul, you’ll need to book it with a local company. The price for a horse trip from Tash-Rabat to Panda Pass depends on which yurt camp you decide to book it with.
The average price for this horse trip is 1,000 KGS + 1,500 KGS for the horseman who will guide you. You cannot book a horse trip without a horseman. Costs for a horseman can be split if you’re travelling with two or more people.
Dreaming of hiking through wild mountain landscapes, horseback riding across alpine pastures, sleeping in yurts, and exploring remote valleys by 4×4 with a small group of adventurous travelers?
What to bring when visiting Tash Rabat
- If you’re only visiting the stone fortress, you don’t need to wear any fancy gear. Just ensure you are dressed respectfully for Muslim culture.
- While traveling through Naryn, pick up some snacks to keep you going over your trip. You can order breakfast, lunch or dinner at the yurt camps.
- Bring plenty of water for the journey to Tash Rabat and for while you’re there. I wouldn’t recommend drinking from the river due to animals being in close proximity. You should also always use a water filter or steripen when drinking spring water in Kyrgyzstan.
- Keep in mind that this is a peaceful, remote spot so there are no shops or restaurants. Being in the shadow of the mountain ranges also means there’ll be little to no phone signal nor wifi.
- If you plan to backpack or hike here during summer, prepare for all-season weather. In the valley, the temperatures can hit highs averaging around 27 degrees in the day, but at night, frost blankets the ground. For during the day, consider packing sunscreen, sandals, t-shirts and LOTS of water.
- Many of the hiking routes around Tash-Rabat involve high altitudes so the sun is very strong – bring sunglasses and good sun cream. If you venture to Panda Pass, wind chill is very strong there so layer up! Prepare for cooler temperatures and I’d suggest bringing thermals, base layers, down/fleece jacket, waterproofs, gloves, hiking poles, warm hat and boots.
- When on horseback, wear similar gear to when hiking. I’d recommend you wear long leggings or trousers and high walking boots for the stirrups. For those with a sensitive bum, bring padded cycling shorts to stop you getting sore. If you want to get some photos mid-horse trek, ensure your camera or phone has a strap so they don’t go walking…
Where to go after Tash Rabat
So, you’ve had a little taste of Tash Rabat and you want more. What else can you do? You may as well combine some hiking or horse riding to some other serene spots.
Here are my top takes:
1. Kel Suu Lake
This lake is like something from Lord of the Rings! Its jagged rock ridges plummet into turquoise water. This basin was formed in the 1980s following an earthquake. It’s so unique that in some years – it completely disappears! The water is held by the crevices like a natural dam – but occasionally it leaks through and the water is gone.
Nevertheless, it’s not a spot to miss. You are completely surrounded by mountains and the route there from Kel Suu base is equally as breathtaking.
Important note: you’ll need a border permit to access Kel Suu Lake. It’s the same process as for Chatyr Kul so read in the ‘Hike to Chatyr Kul’ section how to apply for a permit.
To get to Kel Suu by public transport, use the same marshrutka route from Bishkek to Naryn. From Naryn you can rent a 4×4 car and continue through the valleys. Another way is to hire a private driver but you would have to consider the cost of them driving from Naryn – Tash-Rabat – Kel Suu. Enquire for further information.
I offer combined trips to Kel Suu and Tash-Rabat in my adventure tours. All the transport and planning of border passes is taken care of 😉
2. Koshoy Korgon, At-Bashy
The Koshoy is the last remnant of a settlement which is said to have been in use in the 12th century. You can freely roam its former walls and fortress and put your mind back to that time. There is a museum just by the entrance – but like with Tash-Rabat – you’ll need to check in with the attendant as it could be closed on certain days. Head to Kara-Suu village to find out more information.
To get to Koshoy Korgon independently from Tash-Rabat, you’ll have to organise a taxi. The fortress is 51km away and is located below At-Bashy.
3. Shaar Waterfall
This is one of Central Asia’s largest waterfalls: around 300 meters of water plummets down around lush greenery (in summer!). If you’re a fan of flora and fauna, be sure to watch where you step as rare plants unique to Kyrgyzstan grow here.
The waterfall sits in the gorge of the Bash-Kaindy River which is only accessible on foot or on horseback from the village of Bash-Kaindy. You’ll have to organise a private taxi or rent a car to get to this small village. From there, it is a 20km hike (one-way) from the entrance of the Bash-Kaindy gorge. You can find the GPS coordinates for this hike here.
4. Kol Tor Lake, At BAshy
All of Kyrgyzstan’s lakes shine with their own character and this water is no exception. For the reluctant walkers – this is one for you. It’s a 2km round trip from an open jailoo (summer pasture for farmers) at the northern bank of the At-Bashi River.
The hike to the lake is pretty special! You’ll pass a tiny glacier on your right in a gorge but you’ll also be in the shadow of the mountain peaks. It is very humbling.
This place is only accessible by a 4×4 vehicle and you’ll need a driver with excellent experience of off-roading!
5. Eki-Naryn Valley
Every valley in Kyrgyzstan bursts with its own color and identity. The Eki-Naryn Valley is luscious and cloaked with orange clay at the cliffs of the riverside.
Eki-Naryn translates as ‘two-Naryn’ in Kyrgyz. This is because two tributaries of the river Naryn join together in force. If you’re craving some calm and want to experience Kyrgrystan’s jailoo offerings, this is a wonderful place.
Eki-Naryn is located about an hour’s drive away from Naryn. You can get a bus here from Naryn or organise a private taxi hire.
I hope this travel guide to Tash Rabat provided you with all the info you were looking for. I’m wishing you a great trip to Tash Rabat and Kyrgyzstan!
If you have any questions or remarks, let them know in the comments below – they could be useful to other travelers, or send me an email.
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