536 BOGDO-OLA 



character of its own, leaving an impression rarely given 

 by even higher summits. 



This mountain first became known to geographers as 

 a volcano, and for some years it appeared as such on 

 the maps ; this report was, however, soon proved to 

 have originated from the Chinese myth, that fire and 

 smoke issued from it when the gods visited it once a 

 year ! There is, no doubt, an uncanny atmosphere 

 about the Bogdo-ola, for, when other ranges lie basking 

 in the sun, the summits of these peaks are certain to be 

 enveloped in mists and hidden in clouds. 



Dull weather is very common, and this conserves 

 the snow which perpetually covers the summits of the 

 Bogdo ranges. Sudden storms of great violence fre- 

 quently occur, rain falls at intervals throughout the 

 summer months, and the weather is far more changeable 

 than in other localities in Central Asia. Strong winds, 

 blowing to a hurricane, are a feature of the region ; the 

 route leading southwards to Turfan being well known 

 for the violence of the gales which blow through the gap 

 in the mountains. Travelling by this route was said 

 to be dangerous, even carts being occasionally blown 

 over ; our Chinese informer added, however, that it was 

 ** only Treasury carts that were blown over," one of 

 these, carrying bullion, having vanished altogether, the 

 wheels only being found ; its disappearance was attributed 

 to the wind, aptly named the " Ghost Wind " ! 



The uncertain climate is caused, it is said, by the 

 position of the high peaks towering above the low, hot 

 depression of Turfan. Whatever the reason may be, 

 these highlands are the scene of violent climatic changes 

 which overawe the natives and cause them to consider 

 it a suitable abode for " spirits," and therefore holy. 



