Elaman, our guide, meets the horsemen who were there to show us how Kok Buru is played (in Afghanistan it is called "Buzkashi"). It is played throughout Central Asia and is a part of the Central Asian World Games this year. It is not a game meant for meek-hearted people.  

 

The game starts and the teams of three horsemen each (this number is not fixed) charge in to collect a carcass of a goat or calf as shown below.

The carcass of a decapitated goat with its paws removed is the item they fight for. This is deposited into a bin on both ends of the field to represent a goal. Oftentimes, the carcass is cooked and shared by the players at the end of the game believing it to be more succulent from the tugging of wrenching for it.

In addition to Kok Boru, the horsemen also showed us some of their other skills like wrestling on a horse. While the man tries to wrench the carcass from the opponent, the horse acts in unison with him to block the opposing team.

After the show, it was time for lunch at a villager's residence. Elaman and our driver are about to tuck in. 

Burana Tower is a famous landmark in the Silk Road.

One of the ruins of the Silk Road is clearly visible here. It's the base of what was a Nestorian church.

When we arrived at the youth yurt camp, we found out that it belongs to the Kyrgyz company operating our tour. There was an opening ceremony in which we took part. Here a representative from a Japanese group is starting the planting of a Sakura tree. Later I was asked to help in cutting the ribbon.

Yurts of the newly-opened youth yurt camp belonging to our agent in Krygystan. Behind is the Tian Shan range and in front is the Issyk-kul (Issuk Lake aka the Pearl of the Tian Shan).

Yurts for guests are set in a cluster of three.

For the opening ceremony a family of local entertainers performed for us, followed by dinner.

This is called Tunduk, which when opened permits air to circulate in the yurt.

The bedroom is not normally featured in a traditional yurt but then this is luxury complete with air-con cum heater

Striking colours of the Shazka Canyon aka Fairy Tale Canyon. 

Skazka Canyon with a peek of Issyk-kul in the background.

The canyon is spread over a huge area and makes for interesting hikes.