Kochkor Guesthouse Campground — Tian Shan Gateway Basecamp

Kochkor is the last proper town before the Moldo-Ashuu Pass climb toward Son-Kul, and several guesthouses here operate established camping areas in their yards — flattened gravel or grass spots with access to squat toilets, a cold water tap, and home-cooked laghman if you ask nicely. The CBT (Community Based Tourism) network coordinates most of these, so quality is consistent. Expect maybe 4–8 vehicle spots depending on the property. Busy mid-July through late August when Son-Kul fills with trekkers and horseback tourists.

Fuel up here — it’s the last reliable diesel/petrol before the high plateau. Kochkor sits on the A365 highway roughly 100 km northwest of Naryn. Roads into town are paved; everything beyond toward the pass turns to gravel and dirt fast. Cell signal is partial in town, gone once you climb. CBT Kochkor office can book you in advance — worth doing in peak season.

Last real basecamp before the Son-Kul climb.