1. Shavlinsky lakes, Altai mountains, Russia
We had spent 13 hours in a horse saddle till a late night to reach this camp near Shavlinsky lakes. The next day had rewarded us for trials by this idyllic lake view.
The "Belovodie land" (White water land) is a mystery land of Russian old-believer Christian sect in 18-19 century. Belovodie in their dreams was a paradise ruled by Goodness and Justice. Many of the old-believers escapes to the Altai and probably find here the land from the dreams .
2. The Lake of mountains spirits, Altai
On return way from the lakes we passed over "Thousand lakes" plateau where we was caught by storm. A sudden rain with a wind turn into a snow storm. That terrible day and cold night I never forget, but on the morning we found the landscape around us absolutely different. Under bright blue sky everything was covered by white snow and steam above the water was slowly disappearing.
In couple hours the hot sun did not leave a bit of snow except mountains heights which remains white.
Altai people believe that in each local place live a spirit who require their tribute.