Kyrgyzstan and the Jailoo: Four Rides in the Mountains of Heaven

Sue Bathurst went to Kyrgyzstan in 2013 to ride a horse in the jailoo, fell in love with the country, and wrote this book about her experiences. It describes Kyrgyzstan, as it was and is, and tells of four horse rides in the Tien Shan and Talas Mountains, covering 500 miles and crossing 20 passes. In 2017, they rode for over 150 miles down the no-go zone, the Kyrgyz/Chinese border, and were welcomed by the shepherds and their families.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

In 2013, Sue Bathurst embarked on a remarkable journey to Kyrgyzstan, where she had the privilege of riding a horse in the breathtaking jailoo, the nomads' mountain pastures. Impelled by her deep affection for the country, often hailed as the epitome of beauty on Earth, she delved into its captivating culture and endearing people. This captivating book not only provides a vivid portrayal of Kyrgyzstan as it existed and continues to thrive but also weaves the tale of four extraordinary horse rides through the majestic Tien Shan and Talas Mountains. Accompanied by English and Kyrgyz friends, they embarked on a remarkable adventure that spanned 500 miles, traversing 20 breathtaking passes, many reaching elevations between 9,000 feet and 13,000 feet. Their journey took them through treacherous gorges and rivers adorned with cascading snowmelt, showcasing the raw beauty of nature.

In 2017, they pushed the boundaries further, embarking on a daring expedition that traversed the no-go zone, once the frontier between the USSR and China. Despite its historical significance and the ongoing Kyrgyz/Chinese border, they were warmly welcomed by the shepherds and their families throughout their journey. This book goes beyond mere aesthetics, offering a captivating exploration of challenging terrain, far removed from the convenience of helicopter rescues. It delves into the resilience and determination of the Kyrgyz people as they rebuild their nation after enduring 115 years of Russian rule.

Over 200 vibrant color photographs, 4 insightful graphs, and a detailed color map accompany the narrative, enhancing the reader's visual experience and deepening their understanding of this remarkable country. The author's firsthand accounts and intimate connections with the Kyrgyz people bring the story to life, offering a profound insight into their customs, traditions, and unwavering spirit.

This book is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of nature. It serves as a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that resilience and determination can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Sue Bathurst's journey to Kyrgyzstan is a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation and the boundless potential of the human soul.

Weight: 940g
Dimension: 225 x 287 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805140757