If you visit the Fann mountains and Pamir mountains once, you will look back and say “I wish I had stayed longer.” This enormous mountain range, which sweeps across the northwestern part of Tajikistan, combines picture postcard scenes of snowy peaks, roaring rivers fed by the meltwater, turquoise blue lakes, and pockets of jade green farmland, irrigated with river water. Situated on the Silk Road and a vital battleground in antiquity, including for Alexander the Great.
Our treks diverge across the mountains, with several of the most popular routes in Fann mountains leading to Kuli Kalon, the Alauddin and Mutnoe Lakes, and Big Alo. The passes may be steep, and the mid-day sun searing, but each bend in the path brings with it another extraordinary vista of the likes of Chimtarga (5,489m) and Bodkhona (5,183m), and perhaps an encounter with shepherds and their flocks, and the opportunity to share a cup of tea with shepherds. Our expert trekking guides have years of experience exploring these mountains, and many of them started trekking here when they were kid, so their personal touch will enrich your experience, ensuring it is safe, informative and fun.
This trekking is designed for those who have limited time for trekking. This trekking can be started either from Artuch or from Alauddin lakes. This is a well-worn route in Fann mountains that cover visiting most of the turquoise blue lakes of the region. This trek does not require a special physical preparation. The highest point of our trekking program: 3860m.
Day 1: Dushanbe (900m)
Welcome to Tajikistan! On arrival at Dushanbe airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to the hotel. For the rest of the day you can rest or explore Dushanbe.
Day 2: Artuch camp (2200m, 2hours)
After the breakfast at the hotel, we depart from Dushanbe/Khujand and drive towards Artuch Alp camp (2200m). You can do a short trek to Chukurak lake which is located 2 hours from the base camp, if you feel you have enough power. Accommodation in Artuch camp, a comfortable base where you can take a sauna and enjoy night.
Day 3: Bibijanat lake (7km, 6hours, +695m)
After a breakfast in Artuch Alp camp we load our luggage to donkeys and start one of the active part of a trekking program. Ascend to Kulikalon lake takes about 6 hours. Camping on the shore of Bibijanat lake. Trekking distance 7km. Altitude difference: +695m
Day 4: Alauddin lake (2770m, 10km, ~6hours, +960m )
In the morning, we start ascend to Alauddin pass (3860 m) to Alauddin Lakes. The beautiful panorama of the surrounding peaks and lakes will be seen from the top of pass. Dinner at the tea house Camping on the shore of the Alauddin lake (2770m).
Day 5: Alp camp Vertical (2770m, 10km, 7hours, +750m/-750m )
After breakfast in the teahouse in Alaudin lake and visiting shrine Alauddin, we make a long day-hike up to Mutinye (Muddy) Lake and back. On the way, we enjoy the view to the peaks and small but very beautiful lake – Piala where we stop for the lunch. Accommodation at Alp camp Vertical where you can enjoy soft bed and hot shower.
Day 6: Dushanbe/Khujand (6hours ride)
Departure day. Early morning the way back to Dushanbe/Khujand, after 6 hours ride and you are at your hotel.
This trekking trip include all highlights of Fann mountains designed for trekkers of all levels of ability, some of whom want a serious challenge. The most challenging and fascinating targets are Chimtarga mountains pass (4750m), giving an incredible high-altitude experience without the need for specialist climbing skills and Big Alo lakes visit which is in our opinion considered as one of the most beautiful lake in Fann mountains. Each of our high-altitude treks is led by a professional alpinist and begins with an acclimatisation period in lower altitude mountains, and thorough training sessions on how to use safety equipment. Donkeys and porters will carry your baggage, leaving you free to enjoy the journey, but you will still have to be physically fit in order to make it to the top.
Day 1: Dushanbe (900m)
On arrival at Dushanbe airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. For the rest of the day you can rest or explore Dushanbe. Altitude: 900m
Day 2: Artuch alpine camp (2160m, 6-7hours drive )
We drive to the start point of the trek – Artuch alpine camp. 6-7 hours drive through Anzob pass, 270 km. Lunch in Sarvoda, dinner and accommodation at Artuch alpine camp cottage. Altitude: 2160m
Day 3: Kulikalon (2800m, 3-4hours)
The donkeys arrive in the morning to carry the luggage. After having a breakfast and short instruction by the mountain guide, we start 3-4 hours trekking. Overnight in Kulikalon area in the 2 persons tent. Altitude: 2800m
Day 4:Bibijanat lake(2800m)
Today we are acclimatizing to the high altitude and walk around the area. Explore every lake and maybe swim in some of them. Overnight near Bibijanat lake. Lunch in the tea house. Altitude: 2880m
Day 5: Alauddin lake (2770m, 10km, 6hours, +960m)
In the morning, we start ascend to Alaudin pass (3860 m). The beautiful panorama of the surrounding peaks and lakes will be seen from the top of pass. Descend to a campsite by the Alaudin lakes. Dinner at local tea house. Altitude: 2770m
Day 6: Mutnoe lake (3620m, 4hours)
After breakfast in the teahouse in Alaudin lake and visiting shrine Alauddin, we slowly start ascend to the Mutnoe lake (3520m) which takes about 4 hours. On the way, we enjoy the view to the peaks and small but very beautiful lake – Piala where we stop for the lunch. Porter with donkeys unload our luggage in Mutnoe Lake.
Day 7: Chimtarga (4560m)
The most challenging day starts early in the morning. We start moving toward Chimtarga pass (4750m). The path goes along glacier. We set our camp before the top of the pass, on the altitude 4560 m.
Day 8: Big Alo (3200m, )
After the breakfast we cross over the 4750 m high Chimtarga pass, which lies between the peaks Energia (5120 m) and Chimtarga (5489m). On the top of the pass, we can see the highest summits in Fann mountains such as Energia, 5120m, Zamok, 5150m, Chimtarga, 5489m. After the lunch we descend towards Big Alo, perhaps the most beautiful lake in Fann mountains. The camp sets up on the lake’s shore. Altitude: 3200m.
Day 9: Archamaydan river(1780m)
We continue descend along the Amshut river passing by small Alo lake (2340m). Overnight in Archmaydan river valley. Altitude: 1780m
Day 10: Dushanbe (7hours drive)
Early the morning we meet our driver and move to Dushanbe (approx. 7 hours).
This extraordinary trekking adventure is designed for those who are looking for a longer, moderate trek through the Fann Mountains and a chance to see the area’s most picturesque lakes. The trek will start from the Alaudin Lakes and end in the Iskanderkul Lake area, home to the largest and possibly the most beautiful lake in the region.
The trek leads along a well-worn route in the Fann Mountains and visits most of the turquoise blue lakes of the region. It does not require any special trekking experience but prepare to climb four mountain passes, the highest point of which is an impressive 3860 meters. All luggage is transported by donkey.
Day 1 Dushanbe (900m)
After breakfast, you will meet your guide who 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, the parliament buildings, the historic Hissar Fort, and the Navruz Hall. In the evening, we will have dinner at a luxury Tajik restaurant with live music and a dance show.
Accommodation: 4 * Atlas Hotel
Day 2 Alauddin Lake (2750m, 5hours drive, )
We start off early in the morning and make our way to the Alaudin Lakes region in the Fann Mountains where will start our trekking adventure. This bright turquoise lake is absolutely stunning so don’t forget to pack your camera! For those in need of sustenance, we will stop along the way and have lunch at a guest house in Marguzor village.
Altitude: 2750m
Distance: 5 hours (by car)
Accommodation: Tent
Day 3 Bibijanat Lake (2800m, 12km, ~6-7 hrs, +1110/ - 1060 m )
In the morning, we will start our ascent up the spectacular Alaudin Pass. From the top of the pass (approximately 3860m), we will be rewarded for our efforts with an extraordinary panorama of the surrounding peaks and lakes spread out below. When we have had our fill of the view, we will descend to a campsite located beside the Alaudin Lake for the night.
Altitude: 2800m
Distance: 12 km, ~6-7 hrs, +1110/ – 1060 m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 4 Artuch Alp Camp (2200m, 12 km, ~4 hrs, +60/ - 600 m)
Today, we are in no hurry. The hike leads almost exclusively downhill to the Artuch Camp where you can settle into your double room with a private bathroom. After hours of grueling hiking, this will feel like absolute bliss.
Altitude: 2200m
Distance: 12 km, ~4 hrs, +60/ – 600 m
Accommodation: Artuch Alp Camp
Day 5 Zimtud (1900m, 10km, 6 hrs, +550/-1100m )
It is time to hike uphill again as we cross the Ghuytan Pass (3000m) and the Chukurak Lake, one of three beautiful lakes (2450m). After a morning of trekking, we will reach Zimtud village by the afternoon. We will have the rest of the day to relax at the guest house or walk around and explore the scenic village.
Altitude: 1900m
Distance: 10km, 6 hrs, +550/-1100m
Accommodation: Guest house
Day 6 Zindon (2380m, 16km, 4 hours, +860/-20m)
Early in the morning, we will continue our descent down the Zindon Gorge, known for its rocky and grassy terrain. The route leads along the Amshut River and has some sensational views. After a short morning hike, we will stop and set up our camp in the Zindon Gorge.
Altitude: 2380m
Distance: 16km, 4 hours, +860/-20m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 7 Zindon (2380m, 11km, 7-8 hours, +790m/-790m)
Today, we will have a radical hike towards the Big Alo Lake (3150m) – one of the most beautiful lakes in the Fann Mountains. On the way, we will see the Small Alo Lake (2400m) and enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery of the Zindon Gorge. The gorge is surrounded by high mountain on either side and there are two high rockfalls that are safe and simple to trek, while still being challenging.
Altitude: 2380m
Distance: 11km, 7-8 hours, +790m/-790m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 8 Archmaydan (2290m, 13km, 8 hours, +1140m/-1230m)
This morning, we will hike along one of the wooded slopes of the Archmaydan Gorge. Following ancient shepherd’s paths, we will trek across alpine meadows and alongside small rivers in a picturesque landscape. We will cross the Agmat Pass (3400m) and set up our campsite at the cross-section of the Arma and Archmaydan rivers.
Altitude: 2290m
Distance: 13km, 8 hours, +1140m/-1230m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 9 Obi Borik (2980m, 13km, 7-8 hours, +830m/-140m)
After breakfast, we will trek along the Archmaydan Gorge until we reach the gorgeous Pushtikul Lake (2500m). Here, we will have a short break to rest, admire the view and take photos. Then, we will continue our trek to the Saryhodang Gorge for a picnic and a view of mountains and glaciers.
Altitude: 2980m
Distance: 13km, 7-8 hours, +830m/-140m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 10 Sughurkhona Meadow (3300m, 6-7 hours, +840m/-520m)
We gradually ascend the Dukdon Pass (3800m) along the length of the glacier. The paths are fair, leading along grassy and scree slopes. This part of the route passes through deep canyons covered in a tangle of Juniper trees and low bushes of dog rose and iris. Sughurkhona means “Marmot house” and you are sure to see many marmots here. There are many other small mammals, birds and medicinal herbs and plants to be seen along the way.
Altitude: 3300m
Distance: 6-7 hours, +840m/-520m
Accommodation: Tent
Day 11 Saratog Village (2380, 11km, 6-7 hours, +30m/-950m)
After breakfast, we start our last trekking day towards Saratog village, passing along the Dukdon River. The path is steep but relatively easy and safe. We will stop for a picnic in the forest near the bridge that crosses the Zombar River. At the end of the day, you will be glad to relax in the guest house in Saratog village.
Altitude: 2380m
Distance: 11km, 6-7 hours, +30m/-950m
Accommodation: Guest house
Day 12 Iskanderkul to Penjikent
In the morning, we will be picked up by our driver and driven to Penjikent. On the way, we will stop at the lake of Alexander (Isaknderkul) and have a chance to hike the waterfall. We will reach Penjikent at lunchtime just in time to enjoy a famous local plov in the local Plov house. After lunch, we will head to Samarqand and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site – Sarazm – on the way to the border where our adventure ends.
Trip Date & Price
Season of the Trip
Late June – September
Easy Trekking Trip
on request
Moderate Trekking Trip
on request
Advanced Trekking Trip
on request
Included
- Mountain guide
- Donkey handlers with donkeys
- Cook
- All transport
- All specialist and safety equipment
- Accommodation noted in itinerary (incl. camping gears)
- All meals noted in itinerary (breakfast, lunch dinners, snacks)
- All permits and taxes
- Airport pick up/drop off
Excluded
- Accommodation in Dushanbe/Khujand
- All meals in Dushanbe/Khujand
- Porter
- International Flights
- Visa fee
- Personal kit and equipment
- Alcoholic beverage
- Travel Insurance
- International Phone calls
- Gratuities to porters, guides and drivers
Suggested Items
• Backpack (+50L)
• sleeping bag
• trekking sticks
• trekking shoes
• warm and windproof clothes
• rain jacket and pants
• stock of clothes
• Hat/cap
• sunglasses
• sunscreen
• flashlight
• personal care products
• other personal items
Food and Drinks
A typical Tajikistan meal is a sumptuous affair with appetizers and soups, exquisite preparations of meat and specially cooked rice. Many indigenous soups are also prepared in Tajikistan. Tea is the most common drink among the inhabitants of Tajikistan, although many restaurants also serve wine, beer and vodka.
A large group will be accompanied by a cook while trekking who will prepare freshly cooked, high-energy food with a blend of Tajik and Western flavours.
Cultural and Social etiquette
- Men typically salute each other with handshakes and women typically salute women with hugs. With opposite sex the greeting is made only by putting the right hand on the heart.
- In the countryside, people wear in traditional clothes. We do not recommend bringing, shorts, tank tops/singlets and any types of clothes with bare shoulders, above the knee and backs
- Make sure that you ask permission for visiting mosques and shrines from locals if the guide is not near
- Ask permission to take photo of someone. Usually, people do not mind if you take the photo of them, but respect their wishes if they refuse. Offer to send hard copy them, Paramount Journey will assist you to keep your promise.
- Bargaining is expected in the bazaars but not in places like department stores.
