In the morning we were picked up by our new driver and agency. We had a long drive ahead of us as we drove out to Sayram Lake. Covid tests and police checks continued to be a dampener on the enjoyment. We travelled a road that used to be closed in the depths of winter due to snow drifts and storms. It now has a new elevated bridge that to my eyes was more exposed to the weather but we were told keeps the highway open most of the year. The highway leads to Pakistan. It was a huge structure. The views from the vehicle do not really show the perspective.
Sayram Lake was our destination. The day was sunny, the weather hot, a cloudless blue sky and clear air allowed us to see the amazing, spectacular, mountains and valleys through which the road passed. Once again my photos do not do this justice.
Arriving at the lake our first stop was a large car park with room for buses and walkways to the lake if you wanted. Here Lake cruises were on offer and we could purchase nibbles and snacks. By this time we had
worked out that meals could be few and far between or even non existent. By snacking on the way we could sample local foods and ensure that hunger was kept at bay. I wondered off from the main group and once again was asked for selfies and greeted by various people. I explored the boat moorings area looking for some nice perspectives for pictures.
There was a shingle island just of the shore and we attempted to walk over a floating pontoon to visit it. We were turned back, apparently the boat tour operators had exclusive access to this and a fee was required to cross. We declined. Instead we took a walk around the nearer part of the shore. As I said before it was a glorious day, we were also quite tired and we chose different parts of the shore to sit or lie and just chillax for an hour. This is an area that one could easily spend several days, maybe staying overnight close by, camping - if it is allowed. In winter this will be covered in snow but at the height of summer it is simply gorgeous.
various other locations for pictures and to appreciate the view. By mid afternoon we had basically circled the lake by road. If you ever go here do not be in a rush.
More police checks on the way back. We ended up at the Lavender Fields. Apparently these are featured on a Windows Screen Saver. When we were there the screen saver gave a better view.
We arrived at our hotel for the night in the early evening. It became obvious to us that the Tour Agency was out to impress us. This was a luxury hotel not a chain Hotel like a Hilton or Marriot but a much more private style where serious business could be conducted in privacy. The grounds were awesome, I took a walk the next day. Checking in was handled professionally and quietly the Hotel had an atmosphere of muted privilege. Our rooms clean and well appointed. Our evening meal was superbly cooked and delicious. Breakfast was excellent by Chinese standards but lacked some western style and flavours.
