The plan: A day walk from the observatory; down to the lake, and up this valley, threading between some major peaks, and towards Kyrgyzstan. A picnic. Then return. The reality: A good hike down from the observatory, around the lake on the eastern (high) side, and walked about half way along the river to the centre of the shot above. Followed by two AK-47 carrying border guards, who then demanded our passports, and asked many many questions. Lots of phonecalls (by them). Passports returned. Escorted back to the lake. Asked for cigarettes (refused). Asked for money (refused). Waved goodbye. They were just doing their job, and unbeknownst to us, this area is now a restricted military zone - such a pity, as it's also a National Park, and has amazing scenery. According to colleagues back at the office, there are ways to avoid the border guards, so next time, we'll return with a local :)