Stage 114: From Kemin to Balykchy

The next morning we started our (for now) last stage together. There were still a few meters of altitude to overcome as Lake Issyk-Kul is located at 1600 meters above sea level. During the ascent, our water became scarce, but unexpectedly we found a closed down restaurant with a working well. Later, we were able to enjoy our ride through the Kök-Moynok Canyon. We also had to rescue a small snake from the road before we could already see the huge lake from a distance. After Lake Titicaca, it is the second largest mountain lake in the world! We reached the town of Balykchy in the early afternoon and decided to celebrate the day by visiting a Caykhana (small roadside restaurant) again. Afterwards, we did some shopping and a few kilometers east we found a nice beach to spend the night. After cycling together for two weeks, it was of course clear that Aman had to stick the flag of Kyrgyzstan!

Later in the evening, a thunderstorm passed us and created a great atmosphere of light. However, we remained virtually dry as the clouds intensified and rained over the northern mountains and the lake. We cooked our favorite dish again (improvised, slightly burnt stew) and sat by the lake until it got dark.