Unveiling Russia’s Altai: A Motorcycle Journey on the Chuysky Tract

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary adventure through one of Russia’s most captivating and, at times, peculiar landscapes. The Altai Republic, a land of stunning natural beauty, served as the backdrop for a truly unique leg of WildLens by Abrar’s epic motorcycle journey from Pakistan to Japan. Along the legendary Chuysky Tract, Abrar discovered a place unlike any he had ever encountered.

Riding into the Heart of Altai: The Majestic Chuysky Tract

Leaving Bernaul behind, the traveler covered approximately 450 kilometers, pushing deeper into the Altai Republic. This region instantly captivated him with its dramatic scenery, a stark contrast to previous landscapes.

The day’s route promised further enchantment along the Chuysky Tract, renowned as one of Russia’s most breathtaking scenic roads. Abrar planned to cover another 250 to 275 kilometers, reaching a specific scenic area to spend the night before continuing his journey towards Mongolia.

Morning Chill and a Quest for Breakfast

After a peaceful night’s rest in a local hotel, Abrar woke to a crisp, cold morning. The air was still and the wind sharp, remnants of an overnight snowfall visible on the distant mountains. Despite the chill, the weather showed signs of improvement, promising a day of incredible riding.

A moment of apprehension passed as his motorcycle, affectionately named Rangeeli, roared to life without hesitation, a relief given the frosty 6.5-degree Celsius temperature. His first priority was to find a warm breakfast.

A short ride led him to the main highway in search of a cafe. After a brief search, he found a cozy spot, where he decided to try a local Russian salad. Expecting something similar to the version found in Pakistan, he discovered a distinctly different, yet enjoyable, flavor.

His breakfast spread included this intriguing salad, a surprisingly sweet apple juice, brown bread for later, and the essential cappuccino – a daily ritual. He also indulged in yogurt and a slice of cake, opting for lighter fare over the meat-heavy breakfast favored by many locals. The meal cost around $10, reflecting the area’s popular tourist status.

Conquering Passes and Reflecting on the Journey

Back on the road, the wind intensified, its icy bite cutting through even well-covered clothing. Abrar anticipated colder conditions for the next two weeks, especially during his upcoming ride through Mongolia. He reflected on how visa delays had pushed his trip into a colder season, a challenge that, while difficult, added to the adventure’s memorability.

The Altai landscape unfolded dramatically, a dense tapestry of forests unlike the sprawling agricultural fields of Kazakhstan. Villages appeared regularly, each equipped with essential services like reliable SIM reception and comfortable hotels offering electricity and heating, crucial for surviving the region’s harsh climate, even in summer.

Along the way, a small river flowed, surprisingly abundant with water and dotted with people fishing. Despite this, Abrar noted a curious lack of fresh fish options on local menus. The scenery grew increasingly captivating, with mountains rising majestically and a turquoise river winding below a beautiful, curvy road.

Soon, Abrar found himself atop a small pass, a place of stunning vistas that energized him. Though he couldn’t stop for long, the views of the landscape, with its unique blend of water and towering peaks, were truly inspiring.

A Hearty Lunch: Fueling Up for the Road Ahead

As midday approached, it was time for lunch. Finding another welcoming spot, Abrar chose a meal of fish accompanied by beans, sauce, and mashed potatoes, a welcome change from the recurring coffee and cake. A cup of tea completed the caloric-rich meal, perfect for sustaining him through the cold.

This satisfying lunch cost approximately $6.5 to $7, a reasonable price for a hot meal in such a remote region.

Aktash and the Intriguing ‘Weird Place’

Finally, Abrar reached Aktash, marking a temporary departure from the Chuysky Tract. He refueled Rangeeli, ensuring enough petrol for the journey to Mongolia, just 45 kilometers away. His immediate goal was to find a guesthouse or hotel for the night.

Before settling, a detour beckoned to a truly bizarre and captivating location he had seen in pictures. Here, cars, motorcycles, and bicycles were ingeniously displayed, seemingly parked in mid-air on wooden structures. The owner, a fascinating individual who spoke a little German, explained that many travelers stop here, leaving donations for their stay.

Despite the unique charm and beautiful nearby lakes, Abrar decided against spending the night there. The altitude and constant wind made it an extremely frigid spot, even with accommodation options available.

Seeking Shelter in Aktash: A Night’s Accommodation

Back in Aktash, the search for a comfortable and affordable room began. One initial option quoted $50 for the night, a price Abrar found too steep. With time on his side, he explored further.

His persistence paid off. After some friendly bargaining, he secured a room for a much more reasonable $24 to $25. The only remaining challenge was his dwindling supply of Russian rubles. Most banks were closed by then, and credit cards were not accepted everywhere.

Fortunately, the hotel owner directed him to a Kyrgyz restaurant nearby, suggesting they might be able to exchange dollars for rubles. This was a common traveler’s trick in areas without readily available banking services, especially with Abrar carrying various currencies from his extensive travels.

Halal Dinner and Mongolian Preparations

The Kyrgyz cafe proved to be a lifesaver. Not only did they exchange some dollars, but they also offered delicious halal food. Abrar enjoyed a dinner of mashed potatoes and beef, costing a modest 320 rubles. This left him with approximately 700 rubles for breakfast and any necessities on the road tomorrow.

With a full stomach and enough local currency, he settled in for the evening, ready for an early departure. The stage was set for the next chapter of his incredible journey: entering Mongolia.

Abrar’s expedition through Russia’s Altai Republic and along the Chuysky Tract was a testament to the unpredictable joys and challenges of overland travel. From breathtaking scenery and unique cultural encounters to the simple struggle for warmth and a good meal, every moment added another layer to his unforgettable adventure.