Nurata

We had an early start heading east from Bukhara. We were gifted with bright blue skies and a cool breeze as we once again ventured into the Kyzylkhum desert (alias, irrigated and fertile farmland).

Wheat fields became foothills of scrub and rock as we neared the mountains. Climbing higher scrub turned to multicolored grasses and red poppies. The Nurata mountains now in full view.

Our destination today was Nurata, home to the Nurata mountains and famous for it's old circle patterned Suzani (embroidery) which sell for thousands at auctions.

Dating back to The Bronze Age we discovered a town full of tenth century mosques and the place where the Chashma Springs are formed.

We arrived in Nurata andase lunch below the mosque, spring, and fortress of Alexander the Great. Another two hours into the dunes found is at our yurt camp. We unloaded and headed to the lake for a "Frenchy" dip. It was amazingly cool and the swim was grand!

We enjoyed a traditional dinner in the yurts and a small concert by a local musician. A small kitty joined us for dessert.