Into the Mountains – Part Two

The rain never came. In fact, most of the clouds disappeared and we were left with a sunny ascent up the decidedly flatter part of the trek. We passed some farmers loading hay onto a truck. We said “Salam,” they stared back incredulously. Further along, some shepherds passed us on horseback. Each one carried a leather sack of kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) and never hesitated to offer us some. As “delicious” as the stuff is, it is not particularly difficult to decline an invitation for it. Unfortunately, this is often seen as insulting.

We setup camp next to a partially constructed stone dwelling before dark. By all accounts the construction had been stopped long ago. Animals were more likely to call this place home than humans. Dinner consisted of canned corn, sardines, and some pre-packaged trekking concoction. Eating well is a lot more difficult when you have to carry your food in an already full backpack. Imagine that.

The weather was pristine the next morning. Perfect for a 6:30 AM wakeup and 5 hour trek up a mountain. We broke camp and started up the decidedly steeper part of the climb. Switchbacks were the order of the day as we winded our way from ridge to ridge. Near the apex, the wind started to pick up.  Nothing like almost getting blown off the side of a cliff you are skirting. It was a long way down.

Eventually we got all the way to the top, only to find out that it was at least another hour down to the lake. Couldn’t beat the view, though. Standing at 3000 metres, looking down at a flawless mountain lake. Perfect.