Established in 1959, covering an area of 23,868 hectares, it includes unique nut forests and mountainous landscapes with picturesque lakes. Sary-Chelek Reserve is characterized by rich biodiversity. First of all, it is worth noting about 1,000 species of herbaceous plants (which make up 73% of the species of the entire Western Tien Shan), 40 species of mammals, 157 species of birds, and 7 species of reptiles. 30 species of plants and 4 species of animals residing in the reserve: the Tien Shan brown bear, snow leopard, lynx, and manul are listed in the Red Book of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The heart of the reserve is the beautiful Sary-Chelek Lake, located at an altitude of 1,873 meters above sea level. It was formed as a result of the collapse of two ridges. The landslide blocked the river, creating a high natural dam that supports the lake. A unique mountain corridor filled with shimmering azure water stretches from the southeast to the northwest for almost 7 km. The width varies from 350 m in the middle part to 1.5 km in the southwest. The lake is surrounded by a necklace of mountain peaks gleaming with snowy whiteness. The shores of Sary-Chelek are extraordinarily picturesque. Steep and almost vertical, they plunge into the depths of the lake, reaching 234 m.
The northern slopes of the lake are covered with large forested areas of slender spruces and firs, dense juniper thickets. In summer, it is almost impossible to see animals in the forest - the dense foliage hides them from prying eyes. But when fresh snow falls, the forest reveals all its secrets to you.
A thin bell-like sound rings from the stream, attracting the inhabitants of the Royal Forest. Approaching it are: a timid deer and a cautious wild boar, while lynxes and wolves are seen less frequently, many foxes and badgers, and closer to the rocks, a porcupine resides. Pheasants and chukars feel calm and confident, while eagles and golden eagles soar above the mountains, searching for prey.
Dozens of streams and springs from each gorge flow into the lake, while only one clear and transparent Khoja-Ata flows out. In addition to Sary-Chelek Lake, there are six more small lakes within the reserve, located in the central part of the reserve. Scattered among the forested valleys, stone cliffs give the landscape an attractive appearance, over which the dramatic peak Castle of Tales (4,200 m) looms like a rocky horn.
The administrative building of the reserve is located in the village of Arkyt. Three routes have been developed in the reserve: a car route to Lake Syry-Chelek (13 km), as well as horseback and hiking routes. The fee for foreign tourists for visiting is 10 dollars per person, and for entry with one vehicle - 10 dollars.
