FULL DOCUMENTARY about my 6 months in Iraqi Kurdistan
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Choman is a small town, just a few kilometers from the Iranian border, surrounded by the tallest mountains in the area, including the highest peak of Iraq, Cheekha Dar. Here it is, with its typical, pyramide shape. As Cheekha Dar lies on the Iran-Iraq border, climbing there is not advisable and safe. On the other hand, nearby Mount Halgurd, a majestic peak about the same size, can be reached easily and once I saw the mountain and it’s impressive rock formation, guarding the town of Choman, I knew I have to reach its top during my time in Kurdistan.
However, climbing Halgurd is best in the summer, because of the weather and snow conditions, so I decided I will wait a few months. During the spring, there is still so many things to do, especially for people who enjoy spending time in mountains and nature.
I was just amazed by local flora, mainly by these red, reverse tulips. They are more than just a beautiful sight —an important part of Kurdish mythology. Legends say, these tulips grew where the blood of martyrs and heroes was spilled. Their bottom blooms, with accumulated water, reminds tears. Some believe the tears of Zen from the tragic tale of Mem and Zen. Mem, a noble hero who loved Zen, was betrayed and killed, and the flowers are said to have grown from his blood. The tears of the tulips are believed to mirror Zen’s endless sorrow over her lost love.
Apart of the tulips, a mountain plant called Rewaz was interesting insight to the local culture. Rewaz grows only in the spring, shortly after the snow melts. First, it needs to be dug out of the ground and then peeled. Its sour stems are a favorite delicacy, and the whole of Kurdistan loves them!
Local hills are also home to fascinating wildlife - bears, many snakes, lizards, turtles and even endangered leopards.
In the summer, Choman is known as one of the few places offering an escape from heat, which can reach over 50 degrees Celsius inside Erbil. Snow and glaciers are here throughout whole year, including the famous Prža Glacier. Of course, shisa, board games and fun must not be missed out!
I was persuaded to try snow sliding, just with one rule – braking is forbidden!
Seeing Halgurd Mountain on every move reminded me my goal I set back in the winter. I felt it in my bones, the time for me to climb its peak has come. However, the mountain is marked by Iran Iraq war, still hiding many unexploded landmines - certain areas can be very dangerous. Movement without the knowledge of locals is not recommended here. Luckily, I met with Dlshad, a local experienced guide and my friend. We did some trips before and it was fun! What I truly appreciate is Dilshad’s lifestyle, which is close to nature and focuses on living in harmony with the environment.
Together/Together with Dlshad/ we decided to try our luck and reach the top of Halgurd. All the way up to 3 607 m above sea level. The way can be partially shortened by car but still poses a significant climb.
Along the way, we encountered many shepherds with their animals, bought fresh yoghurt and spent the night under bright starts in the heart of the mountains. Once above 3,000 meters, the climb became more challenging with every step, due to thinning air with less oxygen and also, the constant reminders of past conflicts.
chapters:
0:00 Gomi Felaw
0:42 Choman
3:00 Przha Glacier
3:39 Climbing Halgurd
7:07 Hamilton road
similar video:
The beauty of Choman Kurdistan (جانیا کوردستانێ - جمال کوردستان)
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