We had decided the night before that we won't go to Tajikistan as we talked to their embassy and they indicated the mountain passes we intended to take to reach the pamir highway (one of the highest roads in the world (with a pass at 4,600m) would be closed. We wanted to try it to see for ourselves but the issue was we only have a 1 entry Uzbek visa so couldn't try Tajikistan and go back if not feasible...we were quite sad, but hey, we'll stay longer in Kyrgistan.
Another quick story one for Tashkent. We have a bike to bike system and since the start I am having trouble with a button that lets me speak. I shouted at the company that sold them to me and they sent me a replacement. I got the replacement (thanks Maddy) only to find out that it didn't work either! I can't believe they didn't check it before sending it out...Anyhow, the cool story is that I tried to find one in Tashkent and nobody had a similar button until I found a guy on the street, that said he might have one but in metal (I don't care as long as it works), so I go with him to his old GAS car (old Russian model) and he points to a button on his dashboard. As I say yes, he quickly dismount it from his car and gives it to me! Good old (30yrs+) button still works perfectly. One thing the soviet did well, do things that last forever.
(Russian and UK style of bike to bike buttons)We stayed overnight in the Chimgan valley next to a farm house. We had good fun with the farmers and their childrens. After staying in the Chimgan valley we headed back towards Tashkent to reach the Fergana valley where we are now.
In order to reach the Fergana valley we had to climb a mountain pass of 2,178m, the highest on our journey so far. It was an incredible sight, but we couldn't take any pictures as the entire area was a military area...sorry.
We staying in Kokand yesterday night. Kokand was the centre of a Khanate in the 18 century. Nothing major remains from that period apart from busy streets and part of the old Khan palace which we will visit today. In addition, there are 2 further sights, some nice Soviet buildings that were built before they turned ugly (I kid you not!) and the bathrooms in the hotel Kokand where we slept.
(Prime camping spot in the Chimgan valley)
(Amazing scenery in the Chimgan valley)
(Family we stayed with in the Chimgan valley)
(Leaving Tashkent with Michel and his tricycle - Good Luck!)
(Kokand hotel bathrooms)
1 comment:
that toilet is so gross niccolo.
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