The Alay Range lies on the divide between the mountainous countries of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Its highest point - Peak Lenin / Ibn Sina Peak, rising to 7,134m, is a giant, glaciated behemoth, rising almost four kilometres above the colourful valley floor below.
We arrived at the trailhead just as a storm was brewing, however, the forecast promised a clearing right before sunset. We persevered through wind and sleet, about two hours' walk from our yurt camps. The gamble paid off - the storm started to dissipate, and the first, lower faces of Lenin Peak began to emerge. The very summit lingered for a while longer, revealing itself only briefly, before the clouds enveloped it again for the night.
Lenin Peak, 7,134m, Lower North Face
Lenin Peak, 7,134m, Lower North Face
Looking back towards the Alay Valley
Lower faces of Lenin Peak, Traveller's Pass is just to the right of this scene.
Kaleidoscopic valleys in front of Lenin Peak
Gora Kurumdy, 6,614m, on the tri-border point of Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China
Upper ridges leading towards the 7,134m summit of Lenin Peak
Lenin Peak's summit briefly emerging from the tempest.
Steep, kilometres-long ridges on Gora Kurumdy.
