JEEP ADVENTURE

Tajikistan is a country that could have been made for off-road driving. Though the main transport arteries are reasonable, getting beyond the larger cities requires determination, advanced driving skills, and nerves of steel. The extraordinary vistas and the incredible experiences that await you beyond the roads and tracks more than compensate for any discomfort.

With a Paramount Journey jeep tour you can cover great deal of ground, chauffeured by an experienced and knowledgeable driver. The pressures of navigation, road etiquette, fatigue and vehicle repairs are taken from your shoulders, so you can settle in and enjoy the ride. You will travel by 4WD jeep or van, depending on the size of the group, and as you cruise along the Pamir Highway and Zarafshan valley, steep ravines and crystalline, glacier-fed rivers to your side, it is exhilarating to know you’re on the Silk Road, one of the oldest and most famous international roadways in the world.

Tajikistan is expansive, and whether you’re looking up at the sky and the mountain peaks, or at the rivers, everything seems to be on a larger scale than you’d usually expect. This land is the gateway to the Himalayas, an intercontinental crossroads of people and trade, and just as the tectonic plates have thrust up the mountains where they meet, so too has the meeting of peoples and cultures created unforgettable sights. Overlanding by jeep you will have the opportunity to stay with local families along the way, including in their traditional Pamiri houses and in the yurts of the nomadic Kyrgyz. They will welcome you into their homes with open arms, feed you amply with delicious Tajik food, and remind you constantly that in Tajikistan, a guest is king.

Reach out to Paramount Journey today to plan your jeep tour in Tajikistan!

• Pamir Highway Jeep Tour
• Silk Road Jeep Safari
• Tajikistan Culture Tour

• Perhaps the most popular of all the jeep routes in Tajikistan is the Pamir Highway M41, equally be loved of cyclists (at least on the downhill stretches). Two branches of the road snake south and east from Dushanbe, one considerably more developed than the other, before meeting again at Darvaz, where lively riverside cafes hang out across the water. For much of the journey, the road hugs the Panj – the mighty River Oxus of antiquity – and Afghanistan is just a stone’s throw away, yet always out of reach. Your fellow road users – the Chinese truck drivers bringing in imported goods, and shepherds on foot driving their flocks of sheep and goats – reveal two very different sides of modern Tajikistan that nevertheless exist in parallel.

  Highlights of the road, which demands ten days of your time to see it in full, include the cosmopolitan town of Khorog with its suspension bridges, Afghan market, botanical garden and parks; ruby mines and naturally hot spring baths; groves of fruit trees amidst a patchwork of irrigated fields; and the stark and isolated, yet unforgettably beautiful, Murghab Plateau, where only nomads roam. The Pamir Highway grants visitors access to the Tajkistan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the wildlife and ancient archaeological remains of the Wakhan Corridor, and ultimately to neighbouring Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan. In a single day you can wind your way through high-altitude deserts, empty plains, and lush green meadows, frequently scattered with wildflowers. Rare birds of prey circle high above the road, and now and then a marmot, mountain fox or deer strays into view.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  • Day 1: Osh

    Fly from Bishkek to Osh. Arriving at Osh Airport you will be met by your guide and and transfer to a charming local guesthouse. You will have the remaining part of the day to rest at the guesthouse or to take a walk around the city, which has 3,000 years of history. Accommodation: 3* Hotel

  • Day 2: Sary Mogol (240km, 6 hours)

    From Osh you will drive to Sary Mogol and stay in nomads’ yurts on the shore of Tulparkol Lake. This is an unrivalled opportunity to experience nomadic lifestyle, and across the water you can see Lenin Peak (7,134m). Accommodation: Yurt stay

  • Day 3: Murghab (270km, 7 hours)

    Today you will cross the border from Kyrgyzstan into Tajikistan at the Kyzyl Art checkpoint. The landscapes on the Murghab Plateau are stark, quite barren, but you’ll stop along the way at picturesque Karakul (the saltiest lake in Tajikistan) and will drive over the Ak Baital mountain pass, the second highest motorable pass in the world. Accomodation: 2* Hotel

  • Day 4 Bulunkul (90km, 3 hours)

    After breakfast you will take a short walk Murghab’s local bazaar, where all manner of goods are on sale in Murghab. You’ll then continue your journey towards Bulunkul (the sixth coldest place one earth), on the way visiting Ak-Balik (Holy Lake) and Yashikul and Bulunkul Lakes. Accommodation: Guesthouse.

  • Day 5: Langar (190km, 6 hours)

    This morning you’ll start early and will head into the Wakhan Corridor by crossing the Khargush Pass. In Langar, where you will overnight, you can walk around the village, stopping to see ancient shrines which reflect the local fusion of Islamic and Zoroastrian beliefs. You might also want to hike uphill to view the impressive collection of over 6,000 petroglyphs and to gaze in awe at the panorama of the Hindu Kush mountain range. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 6: Ishkashim (150km, 6 hours)

    Today you will drive through the Wakhan Corridor to Ishkahsim, a small town which is divided between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. En route you will visit Vrang to see a Buddhist Stupa (a reminder that Buddhism once flourished in the Wakhan), the museum of Sufi mystic, astronomer, and musician Mubarak Kadamm and his solar calendar in Yamg. There will be two additional stops, one at the Yamchun Fortress (all which is left of the Kushan Empire) and the other at the Bibi Fatima hot spring, which is very famous amongst the locals. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 7: Khorog (140km, 5 hours)

    Drive along the banks of the Amu Darya (Oxus River), the physical border between Afghanistan and Tajikistan, to Khorog, the capital of Gorno-Badakhshan (GBAO). Khorog is a lively town with a young, engaging population. You can visit the bustling bazaar or the botanical gardens, which are the second highest in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight: 2* Hotel.

  • Day 8 Jisev (100km, 4 hours)

    To experience the real tradition of the Pamiri people you will drive into the Bartang Valley where one of the most remote and wild villages in the Pamir is located. It will be a shaky but very scenic ride along Bartang River, with plenty of chances for photo stops along the way. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 9: Kalai Khumb (180km, 6 hours)

    Kalai Khumb — also known as Darvaz, “the gateway” — is the last destination in the Pamir. Afghanistan is remarkably close as you drive along, and you’ll be able to see quite clearly the Afghan villages across the river. Accomodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 10: Dushanbe (370km, 8-9 hours)

    The final drive is a long but generally fairly comfortable 370 km to Dushanbe. There will be plenty of stops to stretch your legs. You will take the southern road via Kulob (where you’ll stop for lunch) and will pass the impressive Nurek Reservoir and dam. Your reward for the challenging journey is good accommodation —  the Atlas Hotel — which is decorated in traditional Tajik style. Your farewell dinner will be at a delicious Tajik restaurant.  Accommodation: 4* Hotel

  • Day 11: Dushanbe

    After breakfast, you will transfer to Dushanbe Airport. Bon voyage!

  Note: Driving times are approximate. They can fluctuate according to road and weather conditions, plus the amount of time spent at sites.

  A journey through Pamir Mountains

• The northwest of Tajikistan boasts some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in Central Asia, and they’re remarkably accessible for jeep adventure. Join Paramount Journey to explore the ancient ruins of Sarazm and Penjikent, the passes and gorges of the Zerafshan and Yagnob Valleys, and the glittering natural jewel which is Iskanderkul and the 7 lakes of Shing valley. Our passionate, experienced local guide will give you a taste of Tajik culture and nature at its finest.
  Few if any drives on earth rival the dramatic landscapes — or the adrenalin rush — of Tajikistan’s highlands. Join Paramount Journey on an adventure like no other across the Roof of the World, shadowing the breathtaking landscapes of the Tajikistan mountains, meeting with decedents of Sogdians, and following in the footsteps of Alexander Great and his warriors, and merchants of Silk Road.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  • Day 1: Dushanbe

    Arriving in Dushanbe you will be met by your guide and transfer to the Sheraton Hotel.  After breakfast and a short briefing your guide will take you on a fascinating city tour of Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s leafy capital. Highlights of the city include the magnificent gold Somoni Monument, the world’s second-tallest flag pole, Rudaki Park, parliament, Hissar Fort, and the Navruz Hall. Accomodation: 5* Hotel

  • Day 2: Dushanbe – Penjikent

    Today you will cross the border from Kyrgyzstan into Tajikistan at the Kyzyl Art checkpoint. The landscapes on the Murghab Plateau are stark, quite barren, but you’ll stop along the way at picturesque Karakul (the saltiest lake in Tajikistan) and will drive over the Ak Baital mountain pass, the second highest motorable pass in the world. Accomodation: 2* Hotel

  • Day 3: Penjikent – Noffin

    After breakfast, you will head into the Shing Valley to see seven lakes, the turquoise gemstones which decorate these mountains. Leaving the vehicle behind, you will hike for the last hour to the seventh lake and overnight in Noffin village. The mountains here seep a natural mineral called Shilajit , which is used in Ayurvedic medicine. Accommodation: Traditional guesthouse.

  • Day 4: Noffin – Marghib

    Early this morning you will transfer to Marghib village. It is located in a dramatic location surrounded by jagged peaks, with the giant Zamin-Karor rock wall looming over it from behind. After lunch, you will have opportunity to walk around village, to see traditional dairy processing methods, and hopefully to meet local shepherds with their flocks. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 5: Marghib – Pskan (Yagnob Valley)

    Continuing by road to the Yagnob village of Noumetkan, you will then begin your trek towards Pskan (3 km). You will pass through the famous Yagnob Gorge en route, and reach Pskan in time for lunch. You’ll have some time to explore the village or to have a short hike hike around. Accommodation: Homestay

  • Day 6: Pskan – Saratog (Iskanderkul)

    After breakfast with your homestay hosts you will start trekking back down to Noumetkan where a car will be waiting for you. On the drive to Saratog village you will stop to see the magnificent Iskanderkul (Alexander’s Lake) and a picturesque waterfall. At the guesthouse this evening you will have the opportunity to take a traditional Russian sauna. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 7: Saratog – Dushanbe

    On the final day you will transfer by road to Dushanbe and check in to the luxurious 5 star Sheraton Hotel. Your farewell dinner will be served at an authentic Tajk restaurant, accompanied by live music and dance. Accommodation: 5* Hotel

  • Day 8: Dushanbe

    After breakfast, you will transfer to Dushanbe Airport. Have a safe flight!

• Tajikistan Culture Tour will introduce you to the most mountainous and the only Persian-speaking country in Central Asia with unique culture and traditions. During five-day tour you will discover ancient cities of Khujand, Panjakent and Istaravshan. You will see the most beautiful lake of Tajikistan named after Alexander Great, explore the ancient ruins of Sarazm, visit the noisy bazaars and crafting workshops, museums and mosques, taste the cuisine in a very Tajik teahouse.

  Discover ancient Silk Road destinations with private tailor-made tours by local travel experts!

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  • Day 1: Dushanbe

    Arriving in Dushanbe you will be met by your guide and transfer to the 5 star Hotel.  After breakfast and a short briefing your guide will take you on a fascinating city tour of Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s leafy capital. Highlights of the city include the magnificent gold Somoni Monument, the world’s second-tallest flag pole, Rudaki Park, parliament, Hissar Fort, and the Navruz Hall. Accommodation: Sheraton Hotel

  • Day 2: Dushanbe – Penjikent (240km, 4 hours)

    Leaving Dushanbe in the morning towards Penjikent (name translates as “the city of five villages”) dating from the 5^th century, Penjikent was a thriving regional hub, a city as cosmopolitan as they came.. In Penjikent you will have traditional plov for a lunch which is considered as best place to have plov in Tajikistan. Afterwards we will visit a museum in Penjikent and Sarazm  settlement UNESCO world Heritage dated 5-6 BC and local bazaar. Accommodation: 2* Hotel

  • Day 3: Penjikent – Khujand (250km, 5 hours)

    From Penjikent we drive up to Khujand through Istaravshan. On the way to Istaravshan you will cross through Shahriston pass which is very scenery where you will have for a lunch a famous smocked meat.  Afterwards you drive to Istarafshan which is was founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BC and recently celebrated its 2500th anniversary. Today, Istarafshan is well known in Tajikistan for its blacksmiths, hand-crafting knives of high quality. We will visit the workshops of the blacksmiths near the entrance of the market. We will also meet a famous wood carving master, who will tell you more about his work and passion. We will also visit the Hazrati Shoh Mosque and Mugtepa fortress. Finally, we will arrive to Khujand in the evening. Accommodation:  3* Khujand Grand Hotel

  • Day 4: Khujand

    It is another ancient city with a history dating back to Cyrus the Great of Persia and Alexander the Great. Today it is the second largest city in Tajikistan with Tajikistan’s biggest market – Panjshanbe Bazaar. City tour of Khujand includes the bazaar and the adjacent Maslihaddin Mosque, the historical Museum of Khujand, and Arbob palace. In the evening, we will have a walk around Kmaoli Khujand park and see the Lenin statue. Accommodation: 3* Khujand Grand Hotel

  • Day 5: Khujand – Iskanderkul (220km, 4 hours)

    Today you drive all the way back to Saratog village. It is a long and scenic ride on the same road that we took before. Along the way, you will stop to see the magnificent Iskanderkul (Alexander’s Lake) and a picturesque waterfall. At the guesthouse this evening you will have the opportunity to take a traditional Russian sauna. Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 6: Iskanderkul – Dushanbe (150km, 4 hours)

    On the final day you will transfer by road to Dushanbe and check in to the luxurious 5 star Hotel. Your farewell dinner will be served at an authentic Tajk restaurant, accompanied by live music and dance. Accommodation: Sheraton Hotel

  • Day 7: Dushanbe

    You will be transferred by our staff or hotel shuttle as you wish. Have a safe trip!