Trekking distance/time: 20 km, 8 hours
Descent: 868 meters Ascent: 1749 meters
The second day is relatively strenuous and uphill. We fuel ourselves with a generous breakfast before setting off. The trail becomes steep and ascends approximately 400 meters through grass meadows, and pastures to Koshmoinok Pass at 3,210 m (1 hour). After the steep sloops, the trail winds its way down through evergreen trees and continues to the edge of the valley until it reaches Kyzyl Shoro village (2 hr). Break for lunch in the village at a homestay. Enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal, charge your devices, and take a quick hot shower. After lunch, almost flat walk until you get to the next village. At this point, the trail turns away to the south, and from the trailhead begins the steep 9 km climb along the well-trodden path through fields filled with grazing cows and shepherd’s yurts inviting you for tea. As the trek progresses through the valley, the trail cuts back and forth across the river several times. With the increase in elevation, the terrain begins to change from mid-mountain green forest to high alpine rocky and dry landscapes. Finally, the Campsite! After 4-5 hours of intensive trekking, we reach our yurt camp. Dinner and overnight in a family-run yurt at 3,600 meters.
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Facilities: No Wi-fi, no electricity, no hot shower, outdoor toilets
*Wi-fi, electricity, and hot shower available during lunch in Kyzyl Shoro village