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Tajikistan is truly an epic destination, and our co-founder Jay Tindall is continually amazed by the spectacular Pamir Highway and the potential for incredible road trips.
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These lakes are a very rare sight to behold in the ruggedness of the Pamir mountains. The snowcapped peaks reflected in the glass-like surface of the lakes make for breathtaking natural scenery. A whole spectrum of colors visible here awakens the senses, from the pearl-white mountain tops to the pure-blue surface of the lakes. These waters are so fresh that effervescent wildlife can be observed here. An abundance of aquatic life, along with many species of ducks and geese make their home amidst the lakes' smooth waters. They form part of the Bulunkul and Yashilkul Lakes and Mountains Important Bird Area, a destination visited by hundreds each year.
These lakes are a very rare sight to behold in the ruggedness of the Pamir mountains. The snowcapped peaks reflected in the glass-like surface of the lakes make for breathtaking natural scenery. A whole spectrum of colors visible here awakens the senses, from the pearl-white mountain tops to the pure-blue surface of the lakes. These waters are so fresh that effervescent wildlife can be observed here. An abundance of aquatic life, along with many species of ducks and geese make their home amidst the lakes' smooth waters. They form part of the Bulunkul and Yashilkul Lakes and Mountains Important Bird Area, a destination visited by hundreds each year.
Bulunkul Lake is the smaller of the two lakes, with depths of up to 19 feet. This region has the lowest recorded temperatures in Tajikistan and waters of the lake have known to drop to below -60 degrees celsius. Stunning scenes of the icy blues of the lake against the sun-kissed peaks makes an idyllic picture.
Located near the lakes is a hot hydrogen sulphide spring that locals consider sacred. Hot streams of up to 71 degrees celsius bubble up from four geysers located at the bottom of the granite mountain. A number of ruins are present here, thought to be tombs and there is a clay pool that collects the spring water.
The lakes and surrounding wetlands, slopes and broad highland valleys are home to a huge number of diverse bird species from those who come just to breed to passing migrants. These include Saker Falcons, Himalayan Vultures and Eastern Imperial Eagles and form an impressive bird population within the lake’s dramatic landscape.
Trekking in this region provides awe-inspiring views as well as the chance to witness the effervescent wildlife that inhabit the lakes. Hike around the lake on foot to experience the lake’s full glory or opt for a trek on horseback, where these sure-footed animals will provide a relaxing ride to enjoy the beautiful scenes that surround the lakes.
Lake Yashilkul has clear, fresh waters which stretch to 12 miles in length. Schools of fish live in its pure, deep waters which drop down to 164 feet in some areas. The lake offers warm waters of up to 14 degrees celsius, a stark contrast against Bulunkul Lake, that are clear enough to observe aquatic life and try to catch a glimpse of ‘Tuya Suu’ - a water camel that local Kyrgyz believe lives in the lake.
by Virtuoso Insights 
by AFAR 
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