Our flight out to Western Mongolia (and the tri-corner border with China and Russia, just short of Kazakhstan) leaves in a few hours, so I’ve run out of time to post a real description of all our experiences over the last couple weeks: singing sand dunes, camel milk, horse cheese, climbing a volcano, galloping across a valley of wildflowers, and several more intimate experiences with the countryside and culture. For now, I’ll post a few pictures highlighting some of our time in the Gobi, and fill in the details… soon. [Click on the pictures for larger versions]
Our fist sighting of two-humped camels, just after crossing into the Gobi
The Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered
We chose the campsite this night
Scrambling around a mountain pass, waiting for lunch to cook
The shorter end of the 12 km long sand dunes
Ethan having breakfast a few km away from the higher (1000 foot tall) dunes
Hiking along a canyon
The view after chasing and ibex into the hills
Yolyn Am Canyon
Flowers in Yolyn Am
One of the many side canyons. The darker green patches are juniper.
Looking back from the bottom end of the Yolyn Am
For some reason, this area is called “The White Stupa”
Suzie and Ethan at the White Stupa
Beautiful pictures, keep them coming. Enjoy, and be careful.
Regards, alex
If Dan recalls correctly, you are supposed to circle stupas clockwise so that your right hand is nearest the structure. Doesn’t look doable where you were. Also there didn’t appear to be any monks around to disapprove of your lack of proper observance, so you’re good. Actually the colors and shapes remind me of the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon. Nice photos!
Yes, he’s right. But at least here, you are also supposed to add 3 rocks to the top first, brought from as far away as possible. It’s OK to skip the ritual, as long as you don’t walk around one counterclockwise.
Also, there are many “ovoos”,which look like big cairns with sashes tied to them, but are like stupas, on hilltops in the middle of the dirt roads. The driver often crossed to the left side of the road so he could pass with the ovoo on his right. It was a little scary since we couldn’t see the other side of the hill. We also joked that he was going to drive around the ovoos three times before continuing, but he never did that.
Hmmm. I might need to paint some of those.
Josh,
Amazing pics and experiences so far!
Although I couldn’t help but feel your pain, your description of your “guided travels” left me rolling on the floor laughing, and in tears! Sounds like you may have been better off on your own with a map and compass.
We were traveling on our own today, out in the West, and saw a couple of guys in local dress doing something strange. “See, if we had a guide here, we could ask him what they are doing… And he could say ‘I don’t know'”
Bought some good maps last week and gave compass — I think we’re going to be just fine.
I love your photos! The landscape is extraordinary. So good to hear about your travels and fun to live vicariously from your adventures. Sending love from Ridgewood.
Thanks Jo, that’s especially nice coming from a professional! And it’s definitely fun knowing that everyone is following along.
Josh, Suzie, Ethan, Aaron – Thanks for sharing your adventure thus far. While I don’t think I ever have such an expedition in my future, it’s fascinating to follow along and live through it vicariously. I hope you guys stay safe, and don’t stray TOO far off the path.
We’ve missed you guys at Graydon this summer, but know we’ll have so much to catch up on upon your return!
Amazing pix, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed following your adventures, from the decision-making process all through your treks. I’m not completely up to date yet, so didn’t realize some of your tours are guided. Looks like there’s not a soul in sight. Chasing Ibex? Whoa! Please stay safe! I guess the fact that you’re responding to posts means your on the grid!
Love to all,
Jane
Josh – the scenery looks a lot like the National Parks in Utah and Arizona, except for the camels! VR, Ron H
Just looked at the pictures. Beauty and grandeur – hard to beat.
Love from Texas
Wishing all of you a l’Shanah Tovah from NJ!
Christine & David
Thanks for sharing your amazing trip with us.
Shanah Tovah
Stephanie and Bob