Example Itinerary

Epic Tajikistan Trek: Lakes, Mountains & Valleys

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Trekking
Destinations
Tajikistan

Welcome to Tajikistan – one of the least-touristed parts of the world. This thrilling journey is certainly not for the faint of heart, with average daily treks of around five to six hours, and nights spent camping high up in the mountains of Tajikistan. Starting in the capital of Dushanbe, you’ll begin your intrepid 16-day trip through the Fann mountains and many lofty passes, stopping along the way at the Karakul river, Sarikhodang gorge, Lake Koulikalon, among others. Don’t forget your camera – this is a journey that simply must be captured through a lens, if not just committed to memory. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

• Iskanderkul Lake: Tajikistan's Fann Mountains are filled with natural beauty, but the turquoise waters of Iskanderkul may just be the jewel in the crown.

• Sleep Under the Stars: Camp under star-blanketed skies, nestled into the foothills of Tajikistan’s majestic mountains.

• Al Fresco Dining: The great outdoors is your dining room as travelers picnic with views of glaciers, waterfalls, and forest-covered peaks, then warm up with drinks by the campfire.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Dushanbe

Arrive in the Tajik capital of Dushanbe, situated at the confluence of two rivers, in the afternoon. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your private Tajik home. Once you settle in, you are free to explore the city, or relax in your quarters for the adventures ahead.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Within walking distance of a number of popular local attractions, and just a 15-minute drive from Dushanbe International Airport, the Hyatt Regency has a much sought after location in this Tajik city.

Services: The service here is first-class with a personalized touch and guests’ needs are met on every request.

History: The capital city of Dushanbe has a historical past that dates back over 3,000 years. A number of archaeological finds highlight the city’s unsettled history, including Greek-Bactrian ruins and a settlement from the Kushan period, dating back to the 7th century.

Read More
Hyatt Regency Dushanbe Preferred Hotel
About

This luxury hotel in the center of Dushanbe is one of the city's more modern options. As soon as you step inside the grand lobby with its traditional Tajik features, it's clear that plenty of time and effort have gone into the hotel's design.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Map

Dushanbe

Enjoy a pleasant breakfast in your private residence before stepping out into Dushanbe’s historic streets. Today you’ll visit the Botanical Gardens, the Place of Ismoil Samoni, and a bustling local market. Markets are important in this city - the name “Dushanbe” translates as Monday, which was when the major local market was held. You’ll dine at local restaurants for both lunch and dinner, and return to your private home in the evening.

Dushanbe
Dushanbe

Day 3

Map

Saritag Village

After breakfast this morning, you’ll say goodbye to your private residence, and hit the road as your adventure truly begins. The route will take you through the stunning Varzob Gorge, complete with majestic mountains and sparkling waterfalls. Lunch will be served on the road today, as you continue through a tunnel that leads to the Zerafchan valley and the stunning Iskanderkul Lake nestled into the picturesque Fann mountains, over 7,000 feet above sea level. Enjoy a stroll around the lake and visit a waterfall. Next you’re headed to Sarytag village and the Karakul river, where you’ll be greeted by a team of local guides and their donkeys. Tonight, you’ll stay at a local homestay. 

Hotel Options
About

A homestay offers a fascinating window into Tajik culture where guests will feel an immediate connection with the culture and locals that can’t be found in hotels. In this humble but comfortable homestay with the basic facilities covered, guests will have a chance to live how the locals live, while having a base from which to explore remote Tajikistan.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

Map

Dugdone Stream

Wake up this morning on the stunning Karakul river, nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. Enjoy breakfast amidst the fresh mountain air – you’ll need a good amount of sustenance today for the exciting trek that lies ahead. After breakfast and packing up, you’ll begin your trek through a forest valley, eventually tracing the Dugdone stream. The entire trek will take about four hours, before you reach your camping spot for the evening at 9,500 feet above sea level.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Map

Sarikhodang Gorge

Wake up to another al fresco breakfast, savoring your food as you enjoy the exquisite natural views that Tajikistan’s countryside has to offer. You’ll hike over a mountain pass to the foot of Dugdone glacier, 17,000 feet above sea level. From here, you’ll descend into the beautiful Sarikhodang gorge. Here, the views of the glaciers are jaw-dropping, with flocks of sheep scattered across the mountainsides. Set up camp once again and enjoy a restful sleep in the great outdoors.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Map

Archa Maidan Valley

After breakfast this morning, you’ll begin your four-hour trek to lake Ptchikoul, located 8,000 feet above sea level. Sit down to a picnic and rest your legs before you continue down to the Archa Maidan Valley, 7,200 feet above sea level. Here, you’ll set up camp and enjoy a peaceful sleep.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Archa Maidan Valley
Archa Maidan Valley

Day 7

Map

Gaza Gointan

A long hike today will take you from the Archa Maidan valley to the town of Gaza Gointan, passing some of the best Tajik nature has to offer along the way. Seven hours in total, the trek will also take you through small villages dotted along the way, where you can meet and greet locals and learn about their ways of life. Tonight, you’ll trade in your tent for a proper bed at a local homestay.

Hotel Options
About

A homestay offers a fascinating window into Tajik culture where guests will feel an immediate connection with the culture and locals that can’t be found in hotels. In this humble but comfortable homestay with the basic facilities covered, guests will have a chance to live how the locals live, while having a base from which to explore remote Tajikistan.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Map

Artuch Base

The eighth day of your thrilling Tajikistan adventure begins with breakfast, followed by a climb to the Gointan pass, over 8,500 feet above sea level. Next, you’ll descend to the mountain-framed Tchoukourak lake, where you’ll enjoy a picturesque picnic. The final leg of your five- to six-hour trek today will take you down to the base of Artoutch mountain, where you’ll stay in a comfortable homestay for the night.

Hotel Options
About

A homestay offers a fascinating window into Tajik culture where guests will feel an immediate connection with the culture and locals that can’t be found in hotels. In this humble but comfortable homestay with the basic facilities covered, guests will have a chance to live how the locals live, while having a base from which to explore remote Tajikistan.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 9

Map

Koulikalon Lake

This morning your trek continues – but begin first with a hardy breakfast to prepare you for the five to six hours of hiking ahead. You’ll head back to Tchoukourak Lake, and continue on to a village of shepherds. Your trek will next take you to a beautiful view of the Chimtarga mountains, before descending to Koulikalon lake, on the final leg of your five- to six-hour trek, where you’ll enjoy another picnic lunch while admiring the exquisite mountain scenery. If you feel like it, now is a great time to a swim – the water here is warmer than other lakes. You’ll set up camp here and enjoy an overnight stay under the stars.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Koulikalon Lake
Koulikalon Lake

Day 10

Map

Douchokha Lake

Breakfast today is followed by a trek along the stunning lake Koulikalon, with its sparkling turquoise-hued waters. The final destination today, after three to four hours of hiking, will be Douchokha Lake, 9,500 feet above sea level. Set up camp once again and fall asleep to the sounds of nature.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 11

Map

Alaudin Lake

After breakfast this morning, you’ll climb to Alaoutdine pass, 12,500 feet above sea level. From here, you’ll be at the perfect vantage point to capture both Zamok and Chapdara peaks, soaring high in the sky. Once you catch your breath, pause and enjoy the incredible scenery, it’s time to descend to Lake Alaudine, where you’ll enjoy a restful sleep tonight.

Hotel Options
About

A homestay offers a fascinating window into Tajik culture where guests will feel an immediate connection with the culture and locals that can’t be found in hotels. In this humble but comfortable homestay with the basic facilities covered, guests will have a chance to live how the locals live, while having a base from which to explore remote Tajikistan.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 12

Map

Moutnoye Lake

Get ready for another five to six hours of trekking today, taking you past breathtaking views of Zamok, Paygamber, and Energiya peaks, as well as the Kaznok pass. You’ll eventually come to a small lake named Piala, before climbing up to the stunning glacial lake Moutnoye, at the foot of Mount Chimtarga – the highest peak to the Fanskiye Mountains. Here, at the base alone, you’ll be nearly 11,500 feet above sea level. Relax here for the rest of the day, enjoying a picnic lunch and al fresco dinner, alongside the epic views.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 13

Map

Alaudin Lake

This morning you’ll climb to Kaznok, over 13,000 feet above sea level. From here, you’ll take in unforgettable panoramas of the surrounding peaks. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst these beautiful views, before descending to Lake Alaudin. Your total hiking time today will be five to six hours once again.

Hotel Options
About

A homestay offers a fascinating window into Tajik culture where guests will feel an immediate connection with the culture and locals that can’t be found in hotels. In this humble but comfortable homestay with the basic facilities covered, guests will have a chance to live how the locals live, while having a base from which to explore remote Tajikistan.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Alaudin Lake
Alaudin Lake

Day 14

Map

Pasruddaria Valley

After breakfast this morning, you’ll prepare for another five- to six-hour hike that will take you across Tchapdara pass, descending into Bodkhona Gorge, to the Pasruddaria river, 7,500 feet above sea level. Once in the Pasruddaria valley, you’ll be dazzled by its sparkling streams, verdant pastures, and flocks of sheep. Camp here this evening, resting up for your final full day in Tajikistan.

Hotel Options
About

Traveling through the Fann Mountains is an unforgettable experience, a unique opportunity to become immersed in the glorious scenery - from soaring peaks dusted with icy glaciers to forests and meadows packed with flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of these adventurous trails are the glittering lakes, lying like turquoise crystals in the the foothills of the Fann Mountains.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 15

Map

Dushanbe

It’s back to Dushanbe today, starting with breakfast, followed by a one-hour trek down to the motorway (it is also possible to be transported by vehicle). From here, you’ll depart for Dushanbe, where you’ll sit down to a traditional Tajik lunch in town. In the afternoon, visit famous Dushanbe sites, including the Tajikistan History Museum – complete with 40-foot-tall Buddha statue, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and a local bazaar. You’ll dine at a restaurant in town, before bedding down in a private local home.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Within walking distance of a number of popular local attractions, and just a 15-minute drive from Dushanbe International Airport, the Hyatt Regency has a much sought after location in this Tajik city.

Services: The service here is first-class with a personalized touch and guests’ needs are met on every request.

History: The capital city of Dushanbe has a historical past that dates back over 3,000 years. A number of archaeological finds highlight the city’s unsettled history, including Greek-Bactrian ruins and a settlement from the Kushan period, dating back to the 7th century.

Read More
Hyatt Regency Dushanbe Preferred Hotel
About

This luxury hotel in the center of Dushanbe is one of the city's more modern options. As soon as you step inside the grand lobby with its traditional Tajik features, it's clear that plenty of time and effort have gone into the hotel's design.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 16

Map

Departure

Say goodbye to Dushanbe and beautiful, exotic Tajikistan today, as you’re transferred to the airport for your onwards journey. Reflect back on your wonderful time in Tajikistan on the plane ride to your next exciting destination.

Why Remote Lands?

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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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