Feeling inspired in the Fann Mountains, Tajikistan | Lachlan Gardiner
Feeling inspired in the Fann Mountains, Tajikistan  | Lachlan Gardiner
The alpine lakes in Tajikistan's Fann Mountains are a welcome sight in this more arid Central Asian landscape  | Lachlan Gardiner
Trekking in the Fann Mountains, Tajikistan  | Lachlan Gardiner
Camping in Tajikistan's Fann Mountains, a real wilderness experience  | Lachlan Gardiner
Trekking in Tajikistan's Fann Mountains  | Lachlan Gardiner
Samarkand's Registan Square at night  | Lachlan Gardiner

Fann Mountains Trek & Silk Road Cities

High passes, hidden lakes and the heart of the Silk Road.

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 36 reviews

13 Days from

$3560 USD

Trip Code: PTR
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Fann Mountains & Silk Road Cities - Single Supplement
$250 USD

Duration

  • 13 Days

Activities

  • 6 day trek

Accommodation

  • 5 nights hotel
  • 7 nights camping

Meals

  • 12 Dinners
  • 12 Lunches
  • 12 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

35kg of CO2-e PP per day

(454kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Trek through dramatic alpine valleys and cross high mountain passes in Tajikistan
  • Camp beside remote rivers, lakes and forest clearings
  • Discover the striking contrasts of Central Asia - from the stark, glacial beauty of Tajikistan to the Silk Road elegance of Uzbekistan
  • Explore Samarkand’s Registan Square and Bukhara’s ancient lanes

Overview

This extraordinary journey combines a fully supported alpine trek in Tajikistan’s remote Fann Mountains with an immersive exploration of Uzbekistan’s legendary Silk Road cities. From crossing high passes beneath snow-dusted peaks to standing in the shadow of tiled madrassas and bustling bazaars, this two-country adventure offers the best of Central Asia’s natural and cultural riches.

The trip begins in Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital, with a day of cultural touring including a visit to Hissar Fortress and a ceramics masterclass. From here, you travel north to Lake Iskanderkul and begin a six-day trek supported by a full camp crew. The route weaves through birch forests, remote valleys and wildflower meadows, crossing dramatic mountain passes including Dugdon (3812m / 12,507ft) and Munora (3500m / 11,483ft). Nights are spent under the stars beside alpine rivers and glacial lakes.

After the trek, continue onto Uzbekistan, crossing into Samarkand, once a glittering jewel of the Silk Road, before wandering the ancient lanes of Bukhara, where intricate tilework, domes and courtyards reflect centuries of Silk Road culture.

This is a trip of contrasts - from mountain silence to imperial cities – tracing the wild and wondrous spine of Central Asia.

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival into Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, you will be met with a private transfer to the group hotel. There will be a sightseeing tour exploring the cultural and historical highlights around Dushanbe, including lunch - the tour start time will depend on arrival time of the participants. Today’s excursion includes a drive to the impressive Hissar Fortress (located 30km west of the city), followed by a hands-on ceramics masterclass in the Hissar district. Returning to Dushanbe, visits include Ismaili Somoni Square, Rudaki Park, the Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, Navruzgoh Palace and the vibrant Mekhrigon Bazaar. Return to the hotel for overnight. Overnight: Shumon Hotel or similar Note the hotel check-in time is 14:00 (2pm). Should you require an earlier check-in before 7:00am - you can book a pre-tour hotel night. Or you can book for the day room rate from 7:00-14:00 which is 50% of the room cost.

Meals: L,D

Depart Dushanbe and travel north along the scenic Varzob Gorge. Pass through the Anzob Tunnel and descend into the fertile Zeravshan Valley. Continue toward the turquoise waters of Lake Iskanderkul (2200m / 7218ft), a glacial lake named after Alexander the Great. Lunch is taken en route. On arrival, enjoy a short walk to a spectacular 24-metre waterfall, where the Iskander-Darya River plunges from a high rock ledge. There's also time for an optional walk to Lake Zmeinoye (Snake Lake), set in alpine forest. From here, drive through the mountain village of Sarytag and continue to the Karakul River (2450m / 8038ft), where your first campsite will be established near the river. Driving distance: Approx. 165km / 102mi Drive time: ~5 hours Short trek: Final 11km / 6.8mi by vehicle to camp Overnight: Camping (2450m / 8038ft)

Meals: B,L,D

Begin your first day of trekking along a scenic trail following the Karakul River. The route weaves through a peaceful forest of towering Turkestan birch trees, with ample opportunities to pause for photos. The striking beauty of the Karakul Gorge, framed by alpine ridgelines and wildflower-strewn meadows, makes for an inspiring start to the trek. A steady ascent continues along the Dugdon River, leading to a high glade known as Shepherd’s Rock. Here, your camp will be set beside the river in a tranquil alpine setting, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Dinner is prepared by the trek crew. Trekking distance: 8km / 5mi Elevation gain: +450m / 1476ft Walking time: 4 - 4.5 hours Overnight: Camping (2900m / 9514ft)

Meals: B,L,D

Continue the gradual ascent along the Dugdon River, following a trail that climbs steadily into high alpine terrain. The slow, consistent pace allows for full appreciation of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with sweeping views of the Fann Mountains throughout the day. Along the route, keep an eye out for marmot colonies – these curious, burrowing creatures are a common sight in the highlands, and some can weigh up to 10kg. Camp is established at Green Glade (3400m / 11,155ft), nestled in a grassy meadow just below the base of Dugdon Pass. This peaceful riverside site provides a perfect location to rest and prepare for the following day’s high crossing. Trekking distance: 8km / 5mi Elevation gain: +500m / 1640ft Walking time: 4 - 4.5 hours Overnight: Camping (3400m / 11,155ft)

Meals: B,L,D

An early start is essential today, with departure no later than 7:00am. The upper section of the route involves a snow-covered ascent to Dugdon Pass, and the snow begins to soften around 10:00am – making it critical for both trekkers and pack animals to reach the pass in firm conditions. The climb follows a well-defined trail with regular pauses for breath and views. At the top of Dugdon Pass (3812m / 12,507ft), you’ll be rewarded with a dramatic panorama of the Fann Mountains – a perfect spot for a rest and photographs. From the pass, descend gradually at first over snow and then along a moraine slope before picking up a trail that follows the upper reaches of the Archamaidan River. The descent passes through pockets of juniper forest before entering the wide and scenic Sarykhodang Gorge. Camp is set in a sheltered clearing beside the river. Trekking distance: 12km / 7.5mi Elevation gain/loss: +412m / 1352ft, -1212m / 3976ft Walking time: 6 - 7 hours Overnight: Camping (2600m / 8530ft)

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, enjoy a short acclimatisation hike to the Sarykhodang Glacier. This scenic side trip takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round-trip (4km / 2.5mi), with a gentle elevation gain and loss of ±50m / 164ft. Back at camp, the main route begins by passing through summer grazing settlements before traversing along a beautiful ridge trail toward Lake Pushtikul. This high-altitude lake offers incredible views across the Archamaidan Gorge and makes for a tranquil rest stop. From the lake, climb steeply (+200m / 656ft) along a rugged mountain trail, then traverse across a sloping ridge to reach the Obi-Safed River valley. Camp is set up near the river, in a sheltered alpine clearing. Trekking distance: 12km / 7.5mi (plus 4km / 2.5mi glacier walk) Elevation gain/loss: -150m / 492ft, +200m / 656ft Walking time: 4 - 5 hours (main trail) + 1 to 1.5 hours round-trip (glacier walk) Overnight: Camping (2650m / 8694ft)

Meals: B,L,D

Continue the trek with a sustained ascent to Munora Pass (3500m / 11,483ft). The climb winds through rugged alpine terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and remote valleys below. After reaching the pass, enjoy a well-earned break before beginning the descent toward the West Obi-Safed River spring. From here, the trail continues down into the broad and scenic Sarymat Gorge. Cross the Sarymat River and follow the trail to a nearby footbridge leading to the final campsite of the trek. Camp is set beside the river in a forested glade. Dinner is prepared by the trek crew. Trekking distance: 14km / 8.7mi Elevation gain/loss: +850m / 2789ft, -900m / 2953ft Walking time: 6 - 7 hours Overnight: Camping (2600m / 8530ft)

Meals: B,L,D

This final day of trekking begins with a gradual but steady ascent to Tavasang Pass (3307m / 10,850ft). As you reach the top, you're rewarded with one of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Fann Mountains. From the pass, take in sweeping views of some of the range’s most striking peaks, including Talbak (4631m / 15,190ft), Chimtarga (5489m / 18,009ft), Energiya (5120m / 16,798ft), Sakharnaya Golova (4190m / 13,747ft), and Dugdon (4882m / 16,017ft). The descent follows rocky and forested terrain into the lake basin, where you’ll arrive at Hazorchashma – the seventh lake in the Shing Lakes chain. Camp is set beside the lake in an idyllic alpine setting. Trekking distance: 18km / 11.2mi Elevation gain/loss: +707m / 2320ft, -907m / 2976ft Walking time: 6 - 7 hours Overnight: Camping (2400m / 7874ft)

Meals: B,L,D

Depart camp by 4WD vehicle, travelling along a remote dirt road through the dramatic Shing Gorge. Along the way, pause to admire and photograph the famous Marguzor Lakes – six turquoise gems strung along the valley floor, each with its own character and colour. Continue to the town of Penjikent, where you'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, collect our main luggage, and visit the Rudaki Museum of Local History. Time permitting, you’ll also explore the archaeological ruins of ancient Sogdiana – a once-thriving city of the Silk Road. From Penjikent, travel to the Jartepa border crossing and complete border formalities to enter Uzbekistan. Once across, continue by private vehicle to Samarkand – the legendary city of blue domes and tiled madrassas. Travel time: Approx. 3 hours to Penjikent (100km / 62mi) Border to Samarkand: 40km / 25mi (~1 hour) Overnight: City Samarkand Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today we enjoy a full days sightseeing in and around Samarkand. First we visit the impressive "heart" of Samarkand, Registan Square enclosed by three spectacular madrasah. These huge buildings with domes and minarets covered in a mosaic of azure tiles were built from the 1400s. Registan Square is truly one of the wonders of the ancient world. We will also visit the beautiful 15th centrury Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siyob Bazaar and Ulugh Beg Observatory which dates back to the 1420s. Overnight: City Samarkand Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, travel across the Kyzylkum Desert by private vehicle to the historic city of Bukhara – one of Central Asia’s most intact Silk Road centres, rich in Islamic architecture and cultural heritage. Bukhara City was founded in the 13th Century BC during the reign of Siyavushids who ascended to power 980 years before the arrival of Alexander the Great. The city's name originates from the word "vihara" which is Sanskrit for monastery. The city was once a large and important commercial centre on the Great Silk Road. Bukhara boasts more than 140 architectural monuments dating back to the middle Ages. The city consists of atmospheric narrow streets, open green parks and gardens, and superb historical and architectural monuments. In the afternoon, begin exploring Bukhara’s old city. Highlights include: Chashma Ayub Mausoleum – A revered burial-vault dating from the 14th to 19th centuries, associated with the prophet Job; Poi-Kalan Complex – an iconic architectural ensemble centred around the towering Kalan Minaret (11th–16th centuries); Miri-Arab Madrasa – a still-active Islamic seminary built in the 16th century; and Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble – a tranquil courtyard complex dating from the 16th–17th centuries, built around one of the few remaining historic pools in the city. Return to your hotel for the evening. Overnight: Sultan Bukhara Hotel or similar Drive distance/time: 270km / 168mi / ~4.5 hours

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s guided excursion continues through the rich architectural and cultural legacy of Bukhara and its surrounds. Highlights include: Samanid Mausoleum – one of the most important monuments in Central Asian history, dating from the 9th–10th centuries and noted for its exquisite brickwork; Nadir Divanbegi Madrasa – a 16th-century seminary originally built as a caravanserai, now famous for its facade featuring mythical birds; The Ark Citadel – Bukhara’s oldest structure, dating back to the 6th–7th centuries, which served as the Emir’s palace and administrative centre; Chor-Minor – a charming and unusual four-minaret gatehouse built in the 18th century; and Sitorai Mokhi Khosa – known as the “Palace of Moon and Stars,” this 19th-century summer palace blends Russian and Islamic architectural styles and was once the retreat of Bukhara’s last Emir. In the evening, transfer to Bukhara Airport for a short domestic flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for the final night and celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner. Overnight: Milan Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

The trip will conclude after breakfast today, with private transfers to the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 12 dinners
  • Arrival airport transfer in Dushanbe and departure airport transfer in Tashkent
  • 5 nights in comfortable hotels on a twinshare basis
  • 7 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
  • Private transportation as indicated in the itinerary
  • One-way flight from Bukhara to Tashkent
  • Local sightseeing guide (touring section) & mountain guide (trekking section)
  • 50l kit bag for personal items provided during trek with 12kg allowance
  • Group camping equipment
  • Porter and cook services on trek
  • Pack animals for porterage
  • Trekking permits in Tajikistan
  • Paramedic on trek
  • Entrance fees to museums and monuments in Uzbekistan
  • Luggage transfer (1 piece) from Dushanbe to Penjikent

Not included

  • Sleeping bags are not provided but can be hired
  • International airfares
  • Visas
  • Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry, etc
  • Tips and gratuities

Adventure Highlighted Video

Pamirs Fann Mountains Trek with World Expeditions

Pamirs Fann Mountains Trek with World Expeditions
Joanna Lumley's Silk Road Adventure | The Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand | ITV
David Baddiel On the Silk Road: Episode 3 - The Best Smile in Bukhara

Reviews (36)

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