10 Oct 2008, Hargus pass, Tajikistan, 8807km(46km/day)

alt.3940m~4120m~3850m~4125m


West wind was blowing from the morning. I started running against it, up on the main route. I wanted to enjoy the desert scenery more, rather than going to the valley.
The wind was blowing hard against me, as if to say "think it over". I went up the hill slowly and patiently.
Finally I came up to the top, and saw white steap mountains over a wide vallay. It was great.
My wrist watch indicates the altitude as 4120m. There was a higher pass across the valley. But somehow, I was contented. I've seen enough of the desert, I thought. I looked at the view once again, then turn around and went back to the junction, to Vahan valley. The ride on the way back was so easy and fast.

The way to the valley was dirt road from the beginning. Bumpy, or sandy. I soon regreted why I didn't go on the other way. But it was too late. I had to push up my bicycle on sandy slopes sometimes. Pushing up the heavy bike on sand wasn't any easier than riding.
There was a stream on the way, and a lake. But the ground around those was fully covered with salt. And shit was all over. I scooped up the lake water with a bottle. There were many small creatures in vivid red color swimming with their multipul fins in it. I didn't feel like using the water.
I couldn't go over the pass by the sunset. I camped near the top. The last camp in such hight. I couldn't cook because I didn't have much water left. But I enjoyed the night. I slept well.