Murghab town is the capital of the Murghob District. Perched at 3,650 meters above sea level in the Pamir Mountains of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, it is the highest mountain village in Tajikistan. And as is likely evident by this title, there is not much to this high-altitude town in terms of vegetation, natural scenery or even industry. More than four thousand permanent residents call this remote mountain town home, and it is one of the most important stops along the Pamir Highway.
Tucked between the Pamir Highway and the Murghab River, visiting Murghab town in Tajikistan is not as easy as you might think. Due to its elevation, breathing can be a challenge which makes hiking and trekking here even more so. Unprepared visitors are prone to altitude sickness and being affected by the elements – the Murghab Tajikistan weather consists of harsh, dry summers and freezing cold winters with constant cold winds throughout the year.
Despite its unlikely location and dramatic rocky terrain, Murghab town was once a strategic Russian territory. It was the furthest reach of the Soviet empire and an important base because of its proximity to China and Afghanistan. The village was formed as a military post back in the early 1890s and initially consisted of several small clay houses to provide shelter.
Several years later, the Russians created a similar frontier post in Khorog and the former military post in Murghab took a backseat. It was only many years later when Murghab village became one of the main landmarks along the Pamir Highway that it grew to its current size. While no remains of the original post can be seen, the modern-day village is one of the most famous attractions in Tajikistan. In fact, you will find anything from 50 to 100 tourists traveling along the Pamir Highway in the peak season.
Today, the infrastructure of Murghab town is minimal, but probably still impressive considering its isolation. Amongst whitewashed mountain houses – some of which are abandoned and crumbling to dust – you will find a small hospital, a marketplace, a hotel, and even a few guesthouses, mostly in the form of local homestays. Water is scarce and electricity is regulated, provided only at certain times of the day in order to save on costs.
That being said, you may be wondering what there is to do in Murghab town. Well, one of the most famous attractions is the Vladimir Lenin statue from the Soviet era and a World War II monument. Other things to do in Murghab village include bartering for fruit and vegetables at the local bazaar and visiting a community football field to watch the kids play – a popular local pastime.
For those who wish to use Murghab village Tajikistan as a base – it can easily be explored in a day – there are several hiking and trekking routes to enjoy in the surroundings. However, due to the level of altitude and the changeable Murghab climate, it is best to be prepared and book with an experienced Paramount Journey guide. Take a look at our website for more information.
