The idea of a day at the spa evokes images of pampered luxury; one certainly doesn’t think of lounging around inside of dank concrete sheds… unless one is thinking of the Altyn Arashan hot springs “spa” located just outside of Karakol, Kyrgyzstan.
Altyn Arashan (Golden Spa in Kyrgyz) is a hot-springs hotel located in a high mountain valley above Karakol. Don't let the term "hot-springs hotel" fool you - this isn't your typical spa.
Located in the center of the small village of Kochkor, CBT Kochkor will arrange homestays, horse-trekking, hikes and more for those interested. Additionally, they work in cooperation with the Altyn Kol group, which provides a place for local women to sell their handmade traditional felt goods, specifically shyrdaks, traditional Kyrgyz rugs.