The glorious Varzob Gorge, with its snow-capped mountains, goat-grazing pastures, cascading waterfalls, sweeping meadows, and thermal springs, is a popular spot for adventure tourism in Tajikistan. Locals and tourists from far and wide flock to the valley to embrace the outdoors, particularly for hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing. Located less than an hour’s drive from Dushanbe, the Varzob Gorge makes a great day trip or weekend break from the leafy Tajik capital.
Located at a low altitude, the Varzob Gorge gets pretty warm in the summer months so you will be glad to be hiking along the pretty blue Varzob River where you can stop for a swim and a picnic at your leisure. Unlike the more rural parts of Tajikistan, the Varzob Gorge is tailored to tourists, trekkers, and adventurers – albeit with pretty basic facilities. There are wooden huts scattered along the riverfront where you can stop and have a bite to eat. Many of them also have swimming pools; an alluring treat at the end of an action-packed morning of trekking, hiking, river rafting, mountain biking, or mountain climbing.
Due to its location within easy reach of the Tajik capital of Dushanbe, the Varzob Gorge is more commonly used as a day hike destination. The Seven Bridges hiking trail that begins in Varzob Village is a popular choice, leading across a series of bridges with a spin-off to the beautiful Guzgarf Falls. You can stock up on hiking supplies from the Vodanasos bazaar or the town mini market where you will find everything from bread and fruit to bottled water.
However, if you would prefer to make a weekend trip out of it, you can stay in one of the local homestays in Varzob village or a base camp along the gorge when you book a trek with Paramount Journey. The Varzob Gorge is exactly what you would expect from a rural getaway. Embrace the laidback way of life up here in the mountains where there is plenty of fresh mountain air, spectacular views of the Gissar Mountain Range, and friendly mountain-dwelling locals.
Whether you opt for a day hike or a several-day trek, the Varzob Gorge is easy enough for all hiking levels but it is tiring. So, there is no better way to end off a day of hiking than with a relaxing soak in a therapeutic hot spring.
Hidden throughout the Varzob Gorge are various mineral hot springs where you can soak your tired muscles and take advantage of the healing power of the radon-rich waters. Visiting the famous Khodja Obi Garm high mountain health resort that is celebrated for its hot radon springs is a real highlight both for locals and tourists. So, even if you are looking for more of a leisurely day trip or weekend away, the Varzob Gorge is still the perfect choice.
A tour with Paramount Journey will include a short trekking adventure through the Varzob Valley, stopping at overnight campsites along the way. It can also be combined with any other Tajikistan tour, such as a city tour of Dushanbe or an adventurous trekking trip into the Yagnob Valley.
