Qal'ai Khumb

Surrounded by the vast Pamir Mountain range, Qal'ai Khumb (or Kalai Khumb) is a remote stop-off, popular with travelers making the spectacular overland trip between Kulob and Khorugh (100 miles from Kulob and 150 miles from Khorugh). The isolated and sparsely populated town does offer a few homestays and guesthouses, although amenities in this undeveloped settlement remain very basic.

Translating to "fortress on the banks of the river of Khumb" in Arabic, Qal'ai Khumb sits at the meeting point between the Pamir Pass and the Panj River right in the very south of Tajikistan; you can even see across the river, which acts as a border, into Afghanistan from the town, and many points along the way in and out.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Homestay Guesthouses

Qal’ai Khumb is one of the most popular places to take a nights’ rest along the breathtaking mountain pass that follows the panj River, and one of the more common places to stay the night in this tiny town is in a local’s home, who often rent out makeshift guestrooms to passing travelers. Although amenities are sparse, a homestay offers a glimpse into local life, as well as an opportunity to sample traditional Tajik food and drink.

Khaburabad Mountain Pass

The mountainous route to Qal’ai Khumb takes you over the stunning Khaburabad Mountain Pass, a stunning road that hits heights of over 10,000 feet. You’ll witness some stunning views across the Pamir Mountains, in this incredibly isolated region, often going for long periods of time without seeing another car. In places, the long and winding road is tricky to negotiate, and a 4X4 vehicle is best to tackle this kind of terrain.

Panj River

The gushing Panj River is at the heart of Qual’ai Khumb, and the stretch of water also acts as a land border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. Many of the guesthouses in the town are located near the river, offering stunning views across to the mountains of Afghanistan.

Tajikistan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Pamir Highway

Northeast

Dushanbe

Dushanbe

Qal'ai Khumb Itineraries

All Itineraries

Intrepid

Pamir Highway: Tajikistan Loop

Roadtrippers with a sense of adventure and a love of culture are enchanted by the sights and delights along the M41, the highway that cuts right through the Pamir Mountains. One of Tajikistan’s most beloved destinations, explorers on the Pamir highway will be delighted by the local lifestyle, the pretty mountain towns and the breathtaking scenery.

This itinerary takes you along the Pamir Highway within Tajikistan, starting from Dushanbe and reaching Murghab before looping back to Dushanbe.

Interests Off the Grid, Open Spaces

Destinations Tajikistan

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person: From $5,900

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The Hidden World of Tajikistan

Over 13 days, this tour will take you on a historic journey through the culture-rich country of Tajikistan. From ancient rock carvings to historic monuments that have stood for centuries, this itinerary guarantees to give you a glimpse of a rare and unseen lifestyle, untouched by the outside world.

Destinations Tajikistan

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person: From $5,400

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Trekking Over the Roof of the World in Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains

Explore a hidden and untouched beauty and connect with the natural elements which dominate Central Asia with this 19-day trekking tour of Tajikistan’s Pamir mountains. After passing over high peaks and crossing rocky terrain, you’ll discover natural springs, ancient villages and historic sites for an unforgettable experience.

Interests Trekking, UNESCO

Destinations Tajikistan

Duration: 19 days / 18 nights
Price Per Person: From $7,600

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Karon Palace Hotel

Qal'ai Khumb, Tajikistan

Surrounded by the Pamir Mountains and on the border with Afghanistan, Qalai-Khumb is a gateway to many exciting destinations. The hotel's 22 spacious, inviting rooms combine local and modern design elements with such amenities as complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite televisions, air conditioning, modern bathrooms, high-quality linens, and essential toiletries. Both smoking and non-smoking rooms are available. The hotel's front desk is operated 24-hours a day by a knowledgeable staff and guests can enjoy the hotel’s bar or room services. Breakfast is included with the room and other meals are available on-site. The hotel also offers free parking, laundry, and meeting facilities.

Multi-Country Specialists

Tajikistan Goes Well With

Uzbekistan

Kyrgyzstan

Turkmenistan

Kazakhstan

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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, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

Truly remote: Tajikistan’s Bartang Valley

Author: Dave Stamboulis

This highlight of the Pamir Highway features jagged peaks, a rushing river, and timeless Tajik culture

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Fann Mountains: Hiking Tajikistan’s Glacial Lake Loop

Author: John McMahon

If you dream of hiking the Haft Kul, or Lake Loop, of the Fann Mountains for the crystal blue waters and lonely trails, this piece will get you started.

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Faces of the Wakhan Valley

Author: Jay Tindall

The history of the Wakhi people and the Wakhan Valley is complex, and the journey across the Pamir Highway can be unpredictable, barren, and cold. In the faces of the Wakhi people, there is warmth.

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