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My favorite a part of the journey is deep within the Sary-Chelek Reserve, the place we trip by means of walnut forests to the campsite set beside the pristine turquoise waters of Iri-Kel Lake. Surrounded by mountains, the meadows are awash with aromatic yellow fennel flower heads in June, and simply yards from the campsite, there’s a clear spring, ice-cold and mineral-rich. We circumnavigate 5 lakes, surrounded all day by probably the most magnificent surroundings, earlier than ascending Kotorma Go in direction of Kara-Suu Lake.
The climax, not that one is required on this surroundings, is watching one of many aforementioned video games of ulak tartysh. This can be a variation on polo with rugby-style tackles to achieve the “play” – a useless goat that will likely be feasted on by the victors. Tents are set on the plateau beside the shores of Kara-Suu Lake, full with bonfire and star-speckled skies. It’s impossible to not romanticise this land. Carpets of herbs are crushed underfoot, releasing a relentless scent as meadow flowers brush in opposition to our stirrups. There aren’t any brambles or nettles, as a result of the bottom has by no means been ploughed, only a sea of tulips, hollyhocks, alpine irises, peonies and plenty of different species beloved in English nation gardens, cultivated by botanists throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The continuity of nature permeates the whole lot and sustains me lengthy after returning house.
As informed to Sarah Siese
How you can do it
Alexandra Tolstoy’s journeys provide unrivalled entry to this traditionally, culturally and geographically fascinating area. Scheduled rides are run along with True Journey to Sary-Chelek, Kyrgyzstan, in Could and September, however bespoke journeys may also be organized. Costs begin at £4,485pp. See alexandratolstoy.co.uk for additional info. Flights with Turkish Airways (turkishairlines.com) from London to Bishkek by way of Istanbul value from £438.
What to pack
Pack garments for each scorching climate throughout the day and chilly evenings in camp. Every rider additionally must take their very own pillow, sleeping bag and liner, inflatable sleeping mat, using hat, jodhpurs (I like to recommend Goode Rider and Hyland and a few mild bombachos by Brora), using boots and quick chaps, waterproofs, headtorch, towel and water bottle.
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