Akshirak, the "White Foot Mountains", remain amongst the most mysterious peaks of the Tien-Shan Range. They were first explored in 1857 but have rarely been visited since because of their complicated relief. The area was closed to travellers during most of the 20th century. Remoteness, lack of habitation and a harsh climate have proved an almost insurmountable barrier.

The grandiose, vertically-cut Saryjaz gorge, bordering this unspoilt wilderness, slashes through the mountains to loose itself in far away deserts beyond. Amongst the few animals surviving here are ibex, Marco Polo sheep and the most e;elusive snow leopard.

Infrequent Soviet expeditions, no longer secret these days, have on occasion come across human-like footprints. The traveller Yurin Senkevitch attempted to organise research into these mysterious yeti tracks. However, he did not find sufficient support.

Many glacier-covered peaks, some of them still unclimbed and a few over 5000m in height, await their exploration. Routes of any standard exist close to base or several days into the range. The outlying valleys and mountains offer adventurous path-less walks to those not afraid of crossing rivers without a bridge.

"Asia Mountains" therefore proposes to dispatch a 24-day expedition into this poorly investigated corner of Kyrgyzstan during August 2002 starting and finishing in our Bishkek Guest House.

Participants will find an almost unknown wilderness, virgin summits, delightful landscapes, rare animals and, with some luck, the Tien-Shan yeti.
All other conditions, services and responsibilities as Korumdie.

Further details and prices by prior arrangement.