Trekking the Altai Mountains

Rock art

Today we were supposed to drive to the basecamp of Malchin and sleep overnight before trekking and summitting Malchin Peak. However, due to the heavy snowfalls, our camels and horses were unable to bring us there hence we have to resort to plan B. We were driven to Khai Ayrag instead and our first activity was to look at the rock art. It was drawn during the period of 600 before masihi and the rock was drawn using bronze hence they call it the bronze age (it was before iron age). 

 Deer drawing using bronze found on one of the rock at this area

 Pantang jumpa snow

Khai Ayrag

We then continued with what we planned to do ie trek Khai Ayrag. 

Although it was in the planned itinerary that we would summit a snow capped mountain, we failed to prepare our clothing/attire adequately. We should have brought over thicker jackets and high cut boots and better still gaiters as well. Having said that, we still proceeded to trek and climbed Khar Ahreg. The original plan was for us to ride horse or camel to the base and then start climbing but as the condition was bad, we rode the 4wd instead. 

We were accompanied by Mr Ekhee and Bek and it was in a bad condition i.e. it was still snowing and at times we the snow was as thick as our knee and in blistering winds. I am amazed and also proud to see how the ladies were strong and kept going on, eventhough condition was less then desirable. I guess Pzah was trying to impress Bek 😜 whilst Noli was crazy as usual hence such conditions doesn't bother her. The temperature at that time was circa -25C.

Horrendous condition

 Trying to raise Perak flag but it was so difficult due to the blistering condition

 Another valuable life experience gained

Fun is always the name

of the game

 Us with our trekking guide, Mr Ekhee

Total trekking time was about 3 hours and when we arrived at our vehicle, all parts were frozen..the engine can't be started  and we can't even push the car as the brakes etc were also frozen. We were stranded in the middle of nowhere and in minus degrees temperatures. 

Everyone played their part and tried to help where can. When the engine finally can be started, 3 wheels spin but the left rear was still stucked. The car spun and as its location is near a cliff, everyone got scared as were worried it will fall into the ravine below. It was later discovered that the handbrake is stucked and whilst Ekhee and Bek tried to release it, I have to grab the shovel and clear the thick snow to help create a proper path for the 4wd. I must admit I do not have much energy and it was too cold for me to do so but my inner strength kept me going..we finally can move on after being stuck for about half an hour in such a challenging but memorable experience.

 Tikus membaiki labu

Earlier - From Malaysia with snow

Next - Our first experience as herders