Our horse's (What we would refer to as a Pony is definitely called a horse in China, however they are very small) arrived with the obligatory leaders. This time each leader had there own horse, which meant our caravan was made from 11 horse's in all ( I think). Our horses were the type ridden on the ancient tea trail and from the outset it was clear the rules for riding were very different from what we had experienced in the past.Who would have thought to break into a trot one puts the reigns in front of the horses ears. On the occasions I did, my horse swiftly got the message and hurtle off up the track, leaving me hanging on for dear life.
I've tried to compile a selection of images that give a fair representation of our journey but as we experienced in Leaping Tiger gorge, the light was so bright it was almost impossible to take a decent shot.
This is the view overlooking Lashihai lake from the trail to Yangju Chang.
The small villages we past on the way were often very simple and exceptionally poor.
I'm told ,that in this region the pines trees do not grow straight but grow with a twist or curl .
Strange but true.
Once we reached the woods the atmosphere changed dramatically . The trees were covered with lichen, hanging from the branches like scruffy green witches hair. Chinese Oaks started to dominated the landscape and the world around us felt more intimate and special.
What's odd is the tree line in this area is exceptionally high. I was told snow rarely occurs at the height we were traveling.!!!!!!! In the next few days we were to prove the exception to the rule.
This shot was taken at the crest of the hill overlooking the next valley, looking down on Yangyu Chang.
At last we found our first Yaks and in what's more they were waring black.
We had at last reached our destination for the next two days. An amazing place and we had no idea what was install for us .
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