Yamdroktse Lake

The next day, we encountered our first high pass, which our fearless leader "A" didn't even consider a high pass. It was a climb of 1,000 m to Ganbala, at 4,700m. The ascent was about 24 km and we managed about 7 km. For kicks, we cycled the last km or so when we were close to the top...so that was me cycling at 4,700 m above sea level. No AMS. Yay!

Breathtaking scenery. I focus on the scenery so that I'd "forget" how out-of-breath I am. The air is so fresh and it was so peaceful & quiet (till some vehicle comes along).

Purple blooms... no idea what they are.

Spot the cyclist! It doesn't look like a difficult climb, but when you're constantly cycling on an gentle incline, you'd still feel it.

Ride towards the vehicles. Sometimes, they're like optical illusions. They seem so near yet it takes forever to reach them. (At low gears, you'd be peddling a lot at relative ease, but you don't get the distance.)

Mini break.

Our reward when we reached the top. A breathtaking view of Yamdroktse Lake with its turquoise water, which probably isn't apparent due to my limited photography skills. You have to be there to appreciate the serenity and grandeur of the sight. (Being slightly out of breath helps too. It makes you feel as though you've worked hard to get there.)

We spotted a settlement in the mountain. I wonder how anyone could live in such harsh conditions. And what did they do for a living...really?!

Sheep is probably part of the answer.

A Tibetan Mastiff...these are expensive breeds. The choice pet for the rich. Managed to sneak a photo...there was a guy there who "collected fees" from those who wanted a photo.

That's part of the group. Leftmost is our amicable guide. Next to him is J, our fauna and flora expert (and all things nature actually). And the man in yellow is our fearless leader, A.

Why did the sheep cross the road? No idea. We stopped for them on the descent.