Chilpik, The Zoroastrian Tower of Silence

Sounds ominous. Looks ominous. And inviting, let's climb up and see what's what.

Chilpik is located about 45 minutes east of Nukus and is thought to be a place of ritual funerals, dated around 1st century BC. Or AD, pick which side of the Roman calendar you like. The Zoroastrians believed dead bodies needed to be purified in order to avoid demon possession. The process? Leave the body on a high mound and let birds munch away.

Base camp. The climb takes about 15 minutes.

The old way up, a cursory identification sign, fuzzy path and an opening sliver to the top.

Summit arrival. Plenty of room for fresh bodies.

Tibetan-like, flag wrapped pole. Some sort of telecom tower, now collapsed. Sarah, giving it a wide berth.

The site is impressive, especially during a perimeter walk around. Circular, good from all angles.

Some Sights In Nukus

Some random highlights from exploring Nukus. 

School children, all dressed up for Navruz holiday celebrations. Navruz marks the arrival of spring and is observed in Uzbekistan around the vernal equinox. For all you astronomy buffs. And party fans.

Wear the uniform like you mean it. How-to marching, saluting, gunning guides for new security recruits. Measure your step height!

A life, represented by a lot of stuff. A view of the house museum for Amet and Ayimkhan Shamuratov, a writer and his actress wife.

Details from the museum. Get yourself on a picture disc. A telegram cover, not so subtle reminder of the glory of the revolution.

More bric-a-brac. The collection looks a lot like a typical table at a Tashkent flea market. Iconic junk.