TRAVERSE 222
Russia and Britain vying for control of Asia , the remnants of which remain to this day .
Irrespective of Przhevalsky ’ s racist beliefs and thoughts of “ civilising ” Asia he did leave a legacy of exploration that demonstrated to European scholars that Central Asia was a vast land of diverse cultures , environments of fauna and flora , and riches beyond belief . To many people in the region of Karakol Przhevalsky is seen as a hero and worthy of a monument to his life and legacy .
Riding the alluring roads of Kyrgyzstan , many that form part of the boundless Silk Route , it quickly became apparent that the many roadside monuments were a remnant of a Soviet past , an era of displaying testament to the politically and socially elite . An age of displays outlining achievements of science , engineering , and construction . The nods to the more ancient past are subtly yet there and seem to be making somewhat of a reappearance as the ethnic Kyrgyz people reclaim their heritage .
A passing glance from atop a motorcycle , the high mountain passes hide secrets that often go unnoticed . Step off and wander about the landscape where petroglyphs present , and nomadic people mark traditional stays and environments that provide . None is more obvious than Sulayman-Too .
This sacred mountain is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site solely in Kyrgyzstan and rises abruptly from the planes of Fergana Valley near the city of Osh . Predating Islam , Sulayman-Too is thought to be the burial place of the prophet Solomon mentioned in the Qur ’ an and is now a spiritual monument for the local Muslim populous , many making the pilgrimage to the monument mosque that sits atop the mountain .
Historians know of the mountain being a place of spirituality for at
least three thousand years with many relics being discovered in the region , many of which are now on display in the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex Sulayman constructed by the Soviets and therefore seemingly out of place on the side of the mountain . With such importance it ’ s not surprising that the city that rose around the mountain soon became a centre of religion and more importantly trade as the midway point of the Silk Route .
Kyrgyzstan is a country that resides within a living museum , a patch work of cultures , documented through monuments to those of antiquity and a complex past .
Travelling this unique country within Central Asia is an experience that provides for the rider as well as they curious as long as you are prepared to stop on the roadsides and witness the reminders of the past .
Invited to Kyrgyzstan by RusMotoTravel , we were treated to a unique experience of riding this fabulous country . With full support , RusMotoTravel provide Russian speaking guides adding to the experience . Kyrgyzstan is a country that should be on every travellers list and offers some of the vest roads for two wheels . Contact Alex , and his team at RusMotoTravel for more information .
TRAVERSE 222