Arrival day. Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek

During the day: meet at the International airport and transfer to the hotel.

Accommodation to hotel

In case to have a free time - Bishkek sightseeing

KYRGYZ STATE PHILHARMONIC HALL

Next, we visit the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic Hall, a striking white-marble building with stained glass and copper details. As you pass the Mayor's Office and International University, your guide will share stories about Kyrgyz culture and Soviet-era influences

ALA-TOO SQUARE

The White House, Kyrgyzstan’s seat of government, has witnessed pivotal moments in the country’s history, including the 2005 and 2010 revolutions. Your guide will bring these events to life before leading you to Ala-Too Square, the city’s main square. Here, you’ll see the State Historical Museum, the towering flagpole with an honor guard, and the iconic equestrian statue of Manas.

NATIONAL OPERA AND BALLET

The Opera and Ballet Theatre stands as a testament to Kyrgyzstan’s classical arts. Inside, its ornate frescoes and grand facades reflect the Soviet-era dedication to opera and ballet.

VICTORY SQUARE

At Victory Square, you’ll see three granite arches forming a yurt shape and the statue of a grieving woman, honoring Kyrgyz soldiers who fought in WWII. Your guide will share emotional stories of sacrifice and resilience.

CENTRAL MOSQUE

The Bishkek Central Mosque, one of Central Asia’s largest mosques, impresses with its Ottoman-style architecture and towering minarets. Your guide will provide insights into Islamic traditions and Kyrgyz spirituality.

BISHKEK (PASS BY)

After a day of exploration, your guide and driver will drop you off at your hotel, ensuring you end the tour with a deeper understanding of Bishkek’s history, culture, and vibrant city life. Perfect for solo travelers, families, and groups, this tour offers an unforgettable introduction to the heart of Kyrgyzstan!

18:00 – Accommodation at hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 800 m.
• Hiking distance: 0 km

Bishkek – Chunkurchak valley – Bishkek (35 km, 1 h. drive)

09:00 – After lunch we will visit Chunkurchak Valley including the stunning 30-meter Pigeon Waterfall, Sky Bridge, and free time at Supara Chunkurchak. Try fun activities like horseback riding, archery, zip lining, or take a cable car to a scenic mountain viewpoint.

13:00 – Lunch the same time

CHUNKURCHAK VALLEY

This valley award you with a nice green landscape in summer. There you can enjoy with Snowcapped mountains and small rivers. We can visit Supara ethno complex, and Lunch we can make at Supara or we can make nice picnic and you will have time to chilling.

SKY BRIDGE

The Sky Bridge is a unique and exciting place to visit, which causes visitors a lot of emotions and impressions. The Sky bridge is located just 40 km from Bishkek, in the Chunkurchak Gorge. The bridge was built in 2021. The altitude above sea level is 2,400 meters, and 700 meters will be below you.

16:00 – Return to Bishkek

17:00 – Arrival at Bishkek and accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 2400 m.
• Elevation: +1600 m
• Hiking distance: 1,2 km (walking)

Bishkek - Son-kol lake (330 km, 6 h. drive)    

09:00 – Breakfast and departure to Son-kol lake

BURANA TOWER

The Burana Tower is a historic minaret located in the Chuy Valley of Kyrgyzstan. It was built in the 11th century and is one of the few remaining structures from the ancient city of Balasagyn. The tower features unique carvings and inscriptions from the era of the Karakhanids.

KOK-MOYNOK CANYONS

The Kok-Moynok canyons are picturesque canyons in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan, which are part of the Boomsky Gorge. anyons are water-washed rock formations of mountains.

13:00 – Lunch the same time

SON-KOL LAKE

A large high-altitude lake, squeezed in a hollow between the inner spurs of the Tien Shan. It is located between the Sonkel-To and Moldo-Too ridges, at an altitude of 3016 m above sea level in the northwestern part of the Naryn region (Kyrgyzstan)

18:00 – Overnight at Yurt Camp Azamat

At Yurt Camp Azamat, guests can enjoy a range of entertainment facilities that are perfect for relaxation and unwinding.

• Altitude above sea level: 3016 m.
• Elevation: +416 m.
• Hiking distance: 2 km (walking)

Son-kol - Issyk-Kul - Bokonbaev vill. (240 km, 5 h. drive)

09:00 – Breakfast and departure to Issyk-kul lake region

ISSYK-KUL

This sizable mountain lake is situated in Kyrgyzstan, a country in Central Asia. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking beauty, and cultural significance. It is the second-largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca.

13:00 – Lunch on way

BOKONBAEV VILLAGE, EAGLE HUNTING SHOW

On the road in close Issyk-Kul, we will visit Bokonbayev village, where we will participate eagle-hunting show. Eagle’s owner will share all his knowledge with you about eagles and hunting. He will introduce you to his own eagle and you will have an opportunity to ask him questions and take pictures with the Golden Eagle itself. It will be followed by a live Eagle Hunting Show: Flying, catching prey, and hunting .

19:00 – Overnight at guesthouse

• Altitude above sea level: 2000 m.
• Elevation: -1000 m.
• Hiking distance: 0 m.

Bokonbaev Village – Karakol (339 km, 6 h. drive)

09:00 – Breakfast and departure to Karakol side

FAIRYTALE CANYON

The Skazka canyon (or the Fairytale canyon) is about 1,5-2 km long reddish geological formation at the south side of Issyk-kul in Kyrgyzstan. The peculiar forms of the sand stone have been slowly created by the erosion of wind and rain resulting in imaginative forms.

BARSKOON GORGE, WATERFALL

Barskoon is a picturesque gorge located on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. It is famous for its stunning waterfalls, each of which has its own unique name and history. This place attracts tourists from all over the world with its beauty and the opportunity to enjoy unity with nature. The Barskoon Gorge stretches for 30 kilometers along the river of the same name. Here you will find dense spruce forests, alpine meadows, mountain peaks covered with snow, and, of course, magnificent waterfalls.

JETY-OGUZ GORGE

A picturesque mountain gorge in Kyrgyzstan, located 28 km west of the city of Karakol along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. The gorge is 37 km long. It is covered with lush vegetation and got its name from the monumental ridge of red rocks "Seven Bulls".

13:00 – Lunch on way

KOK JAIYK VALLEY

Kok Jaiyk valley is a valley in the Jeti—Oguz gorge, 25 km from the city of Karakol, in Kyrgyzstan. This is one of the main summer pastures in the south of Issyk-Kul.

KARAKOL

Karakol is a city located on the eastern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage and is home to several important landmarks, including the Dungan mosque and the museum of Prjevalsky

18:00 – Arrival at Karakol and accommodation at hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 2800 m.
• Elevation: +800 m.
• Hiking distance: 3 km (walking)

Karakol - Altyn Arashan (28 km, 1 h. drive)

09:00 – After breakfast departure to Altyn Arashan valley, hot spring (for reaching valley we will rent special transport, SUV)

ALTYN ARASHAN 

Altyn Arashan (Golden Spa) is a valley and mountain resort near Karakol and Issyk Kul Lake, northeastern Kyrgyzstan. It lies along the trekking route from Teploklyuchenka (Ak-Suu). It is famous for its hot springs, high-altitude lakes and magnificent views of the snow-capped Palatka Peak. The proximity of the Jailoo summer camps makes it possible to hike the mountains light, sleep in a real yurt and taste real Kyrgyz cuisine.

13:00 – Lunch at valley

14:00 – Hike to Ak Suu village and return to Altyn Arashan at evening  

18:00 – Accommodation to Guesthouse

• Altitude above sea level: 2600 m.
• Elevation: -200 m.
• Hiking distance: 15 km

Karakol – Cholpon-Ata – Bishkek (431 km, 7 h. drive)

09:00 – After breakfast departure to Karakol

10:00 – Arrival at Karakol and visit to museum of Prjevalsky

MUSEUM OF PRJEVALSKY

The museum of Prjevalsky is a museum located in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan. It is dedicated to the life and expeditions of the renowned Russian explorer Nikolay Prjevalsky, who extensively traveled the region in the 19th century.

DUNGAN MOSQUE

The Dungan mosque is a historic mosque located in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan. It was built by the Dungan people in the 19th century and features a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architecture.

13:00 – Lunch at valley

CHOLPON-ATA

Cholpon-Ata is a resort town located on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its white sandy beaches and natural hot springs and is a popular destination for tourists.

19:00 – Arrival at Bishkek, accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 1600 m.
• Elevation: -1000 m.
• Hiking distance: 0 km

Bishkek (flight  to Osh) – Osh

09:00 – Breakfast in hotel and forward to Ala-Archa National park

ALA ARCHA NATIONAL PARK

Ala-Archa National park is in the Kyrgyz Ala-Too range of the Tian Shan mountains. There are more than 20 glaciers and 50 mountains. The park entrance is at 5,000’ (1,500 m) and the highest peak is 16,000’ (4,895 m), higher than most well-known mountains in region.

11:00 – Back to Bishkek

12:30 – Lunch

14:00 – Check in to the flight K9-117

15:45 – Flight to Osh (flight time 50 minutes)

16:50 – Arriving Osh  

18:00 – Accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 1000 m.
• Elevation: -400 m.
• Hiking distance: 0 km

PAMIR HIGHWAY, Osh (Kyrgyzstan) – Murgab, Karakul lake (Tajikistan) (282 km, 5 h. drive)

09:00 – Breakfast in hotel and sightseeing Osh

OSH

Osh is a city located in southern Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its vibrant markets and bazaars. Osh is home to several important landmarks, including the Sulayman Mountain and the mosque of Babur.

THE MOSQUE OF BABUR

The mosque of Babur is a historic mosque located in Osh, Kyrgyzstan. It was built in the 16th century and is named after the famous Central Asian conqueror Babur. The mosque features intricate tilework and architectural details.

12:00 – Lunch

13:00 – Departure to Murgab, Tajikistan

17:00 – Crossing Kyzyl-Art border

18:00 - Arrival Karakul Lake and accommodation to hostel

 KARAKUL LAKE

Karakul, Qarokul (replacing the older Tajik name Siyohob) - is a 25 km diameter lake within a rather large 52 km (32 mi) impact crater. It is located in the Tajik National Park in the Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan.

• Altitude above sea level: 3900 m.
• Elevation: +2900 m.
• Hiking distance: 3 km

PAMIR HIGHWAY, Karakul lake – Bulunkul lake (262 km, 4 h. drive)

07:00 - Breakfast at hostel, sightseeing over lake and departure to Murgab

10:00 - On the way, Murgab sightseeing and continue trip

MURGHAB 

Murghab is district in Mountains of Badakhshan, Tajikistan, with a population of just under 7,500. It is the highest town in Tajikistan at 3,650 meters above sea level. It is where the Pamir Highway crosses the Bartang river. The Pamir Highway goes north to Sary-Tash and on to Osh in Kyrgyzstan. Another road goes east over the Kulma Pass to the Karakoram Highway in China connecting to Tashkurgan to the south and Kashgar to the north.

13:00 - Lunch on the way

18:00 - Arrival and sightseeing of Bulunkul village and lake

BULUNKUL 

Bulunkul is alpine lake of Badakhshan located at the altitude of 3734 m above sea level. Bulunkul lake is connected with Yashilkul lake by narrow channel. The water is fresh and has rich flora and fauna. A flock of ducks, geese and sea gulls are always can be seen over the lake. Bulunkul lake is the first basin at Pamirs were fishing was introduced to locals and now from May thru October the fishermen set their nets near the rivers mouths flow in to the lake catching osman and marinka. The lake's area is also known for being one of the coldest places in Central Asia, the lowest temperature here in winter was registered here at -63 Centigrade

19:00 – Accommodation to hostel

• Altitude above sea level: 3700 m.
• Elevation: -200 m.
• Hiking distance: 3 km

PAMIR HIGHWAY, Bulunkul lake – Khorog (190 km, 4 h. drive)

07:00 - Breakfast at hostel and departure to Khorug

13:00 - Arrival Khorug and lunch 

14:00 - Khorug sightseeing

KHOROG 

Khorog (taj. Khorug) is a city in Tajikistan, the administrative center of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) - Pamir. The city is located at an altitude of 2600 m above sea level. By highway, Khorog is connected with the capital of the country - the city of Dushanbe and the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan. Khorog is an important regional center for trade, transport and education. The city has such educational institutions as: Khorog State University, affiliate of the International University of Central Asia (UCA) etc. Khorog is the main tourist center of the Pamirs, and is also one of the starting points for tourists to the main attractions of the Pamirs. Every year, thousands of tourists from around the world travel to the Pamirs to see the beautiful nature, majestic mountains covered with eternal snow, Lake Sarez and many other amazing corners of the Pamirs.

BOTANICAL GARDEN

At the eastern end of the city is the Pamir Botanical Garden - the highest mountain in the CIS and the second highest above sea level in the world (2320 m), after the Botanical Garden of Nepal. The garden was founded in 1940. The collection of the botanical garden includes more than 4 thousand species of plants from all regions of the world. During the period of independence of Tajikistan, the garden continues to function successfully, scientific work is being carried out

19:00 - Accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 2100 m.
• Elevation: -1600 m.
• Hiking distance: 2 km (walking)

PAMIR HIGHWAY, Khorog – Kal’ai Khumb (244 km, 7 h. drive)

08:00 - Breakfast at hotel and departure

13:00 - Lunch on the way

16:00 - Arrival Kalai Khumb and sightseeing ancient city Karon

Notes: in case of reconstruction of the road perhaps we will transfer from Khorug to Kalai Khumb at night time

ANCIENT CITY KARON

Tajik and Russian archaeologists in 2012 found the ancient city of Karon on the territory of the Darvaz region of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region. Temples, fragments of a five-domed church, a temple of fire, water, two temples of the wind, a windmill, a fragment of the sacred book of the Zoroastrians "Avesta", the remains of a large polo ground, halls, administrative and residential premises were found. building. The ruins were found in the ancient city, which is supposedly one of the largest mountain "residences" of local kings

19:00 - Accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 1200 m.
• Elevation: -900 m.
• Hiking distance: 0,5 km (walking)

PAMIR HIGHWAY, Kal’ai Khumb - Dushanbe (420 km, 6 h. drive)

08:00 - Breakfast at hostel and departure to Kulob

11:00 - Arrival Kulob and sightseeing of the city, Mir Said Ali Hamadoni complex and Hulbuk fortress

COMPLEX OF MIR SAID ALI HAMADONI

In the center of the city of Kulyab, in the park area, there is a memorial complex of Mir Said Ali Hamadoni - a poet, philosopher and thinker of the 14th century. His son Muhammad, relatives, as well as Sheikh Shokhi Tolikoni from the Afghan city of Tolukan, a former inspector of the mausoleum and mosque, are also buried there. The complex includes the local history museum of the 2700th anniversary of Kulyab, the museum of the literary heritage of the writer Mirsaeed Ali Hamadoni and the house-museum of the national poet Saydali Valizod. Every year the museum is visited by more than two million visitors, both local and foreign guests.

13:00 - Lunch on the way

HULBUK FORTRESS

On the way to Kulyab we will visit the Hulbuk Fortress (165 km from Dushanbe). From the 9th to the 11th centuries, the Hulbuk Fortress was located in the center of one of the four largest cities in Central Asia, it was the residence of Shah (King) Khatlon. The citadel was guarded by a giant salt hill, which at that time was of great importance as the source of one of the three precious resources (along with gold and horses) traded on the Silk Roads

19:00 - Arrival Dushanbe and accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 800 m.
• Elevation: -400 m.
• Hiking distance: 0,5 km (walking)

DUSHANBE SIGHTSEEING

10:00 – After breakfast, Dushanbe sightseeing

ISMOILI SOMONI MONUMENT

The Ismoili Somoni Monument is a tribute to the founder of the Tajik nation, Ismoili Somoni. This monument stands at an impressive 11.5 meters tall, with a golden arch surrounding it that reaches a height of 40 meters. This arch symbolizes the glory of the Samanid Empire. Located in Dusti Square, the monument is one of the most iconic landmarks of Dushanbe, celebrating the country's rich history.

NATIONAL LIBRARY

The National Library of Tajikistan is a significant cultural institution, housing over 6 million volumes. Opened in 2012, its architecture reflects Tajik heritage, and it features 15 reading halls and numerous departments, making it an intellectual cornerstone and a testament to the nation's commitment to knowledge and learning.

NATION PALACE (OUTSIDE)

The Palace is the official residence of the President of Tajikistan. Construction on the palace began in 2000. It serves as the venue for all significant political events, including the reception of high-ranking political figures such as heads of states, presidents, heads of international organizations, and ambassadors.

FLAGPOLE AND RUDAKI PARK

The Flagpole in Dushanbe is the tallest in the world, standing at 165 meters. Strategically located adjacent to Rudaki Park, it provides a scenic setting for visitors to admire the symbol of national pride while strolling through the beautifully landscaped park.

NATIONAL MUSEUM

The National Museum of Tajikistan boasts 22 exhibition halls, offering insights into the country's nature, history, and culture. Highlights include ancient artifacts, modern art, and a dedicated section on the Middle Ages, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

13:00 – Lunch at local restaurant

KOKHI (PALACE) NAVRUZ

This palace is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring intricately decorated halls that showcase traditional Tajik art. With its luxurious interiors and grand architecture, it often hosts significant cultural and political events, making it a symbol of modern Tajik elegance.

ISTIQLOL (INDEPENDENCE) MONUMENT AND SQUARE

And now, we come to the magnificent Istiqlol-Independence Monument, a shining example of the Tajik Nation's pride and glory! The magnificent 121-metre height of the Istiqlol complex is a truly symbolic structure. The lower part of the 30-metre complex represents the 30th anniversary of State independence, while the upper part, soaring to an impressive 91 metres, celebrates the independence of the last centuries. The magnificent symbolic complex "Istiqlol" boasts an impressive total area of 11,900 square metres, with the area of the object under construction standing at 4,761 square metres. And there's more! At the top of the complex, you'll find an impressive 8-metre crown made of titanium. The magnificent crown on the symbol of Independence represents the symbol of statehood, independence, state property and civilisation, knowledge of the history of the ancient Tajik people. The base of the complex is an impressive octagonal pyramid with seven entrances. When creating the project with the symbol "Crown", the designer drew inspiration from the symbol "Tree of Life", which represents and embodies broad ideas.

MEHRGAN BAZAR, shopping (option)

At the end of the tour, if we have enough time, we have the amazing opportunity to explore a traditional Tajik market, Mehrgon Bazaar! It is an incredible new and modern grocery market in Dushanbe, which opened in September 2014. The market covers an impressive 30,000 square metres! And now for something really special! The market is located on the eastern outskirts of the city of Dushanbe. The total area of the market building is an impressive 10 thousand square metres! The building is made up of three floors, each with their own unique offerings. On the ground floor, you'll find an amazing selection of fresh fruits, tortillas, legumes, meat, chaka, spices, and dried fruits. The second and third floors are home to a vibrant array of clothing stores, cafes, and service salons, including financial and communication services.

18:00 – Accommodation at hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 800 m.
• Elevation: 0 m.
• Hiking distance: 2,5 km (walking)

Dushanbe – Nurek Dam (100 km, 2 h. drive)

08:00 - Breakfast at hostel and departure

10:00 - Arrival Nurek and sightseeing Hydroelectric Power Plant Museum - Hydroelectric Dam - Hydroelectric Reservoir (you can swim and boating)

NUREK DAM

The Nurek Dam is an enormous earth-fill dam located in a deep gorge on the Vakhsh River in the Central Asia. At 304 m (984 ft), it is the tallest dam in the world. Currently, the dam makes up 75% of the country's total electricity production (3.0 of 4.0 Gigawatts), and provides for more than 90% of its power needs.

13:00 - Lunch

MOUNTAIN SEA

The Nurek Reservoir is the largest in Tajikistan, with a capacity of 10.5 km2. The reservoir is over 70 km (40 mi) in length, and has a surface area of 98 km2 (38 sq.mi). The reservoir is very popular with boaters, as its creation opened up vast areas for easy exploration by boat. The middle of the lake is also a great place to simply admire the vast gorges and snowcapped peaks on all sides. Many houseboats are moored in rocky niches throughout the many valleys of the reservoir, from which we can swimming.

Anorbogh, pomegranate garden, Nurek is one of the cities that is famous for growing a special type of pomegranates.

17:00 - Return to Dushanbe

18:00 - Arrival Dushanbe and accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 880 m.
• Elevation: +80 m.
• Hiking distance: 1,5 km (walking)

Dushanbe – Hisar (260 km, 3 h. drive)

09:00 – After breakfast and head off to Hisar city.

10:00 - we will arrive in Hisar. We will visit the incredible Hisar Fortress and its museum.

The incredible Hissar Fortress was once the magnificent palace of one of the Bukhara Emirate's most powerful beys! Inside, you'll find a stunning pool and a gorgeous garden. Across from the fortress, there's a lively market square with a caravanserai and a fantastic variety of shops. Hisar Fortress and the town have been settled since the 6th century BC and up until the mid-19th century! It was the beating heart of the Hisar valley, the main administrative, political, and economic centre.

11:00 – Time to relax! You can even enjoy horse riding at Forbidden Square.

12:00 – A trip to the amazing teahouse "Kharbuza" (it is currently under construction, but you can still admire it from the outside).

The incredible teahouse "Kharbuza" is truly one of a kind. It was crafted in the shape of a melon, making it a truly unique and awe-inspiring sight to behold. This incredible teahouse is 43 meters tall, 100 meters long, and 55 meters wide. It can accommodate up to 2,300 visitors at a time!

12:30 – Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the best of the national cuisine!

13:30 – Trip to Qaratag Valley, Tursunzade city to explore a lovely Farhad Tunnel

14:30 - Arrival at Qaratag Valley, Gulkhas village and hike to Farhad Tunnel, it is 1,5 km (one way)

Farhad and Shirin Tunnel is an incredible natural wonder, a cave into a rocky hill in Gulkhas village, Qaratag Valley, eastern Tajikistan. It is dedicated to the story of the tragic romance between Farhad and Shirin, a tale as old as time. The legend of Ferhat and Shirin is one of the most famous tragic love stories out there. The tale recounts the story of Farhad, a young muralist who paints magnificent frescoes on the walls of grand mansions. He falls in love with the beautiful princess Shirin... (for more details, see above).

16:00 – Return, hike to village

16:30 – We will be back in Dushanbe

18:00 – We've arrived in Dushanbe, accommodation at hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 820 m.
• Elevation: -60 m.
• Hiking distance: 4 km

Dushanbe – Childukhtaron Valley (500 km, 8 h. drive)

08:00 – Breakfast in hostel

09:00 – Departure to Childukhtaron Valley via Baljuvon and Khovaling

11:00 – On the way visit Hazrati Sulton Uvaysi Qarany mausoleum 

13:00 – Arriving Hazrati Sulton Uvaysi and lunch in national restaurant

UVAYS-I KARANI

Uvays-i Karani is a cult complex in the district center of Khovaling (Khatlon region, Republic of Tajikistan), associated with the name of the legendary Yaman ascetic from among the “followers” (tabi’un) of the Prophet Muhammad, "God's saint" (valiy) Uvais al-Karani (probably killed in 37/657), who became famous for his special piety and respectful attitude towards the Messenger. The earliest written references to him are in al-Musnad Ahmad b. Khanbala (780-855) and at-Tabaqat al-Kubra Ibn Sada. 

14:00 – Continue trip to Childukhtaron Valley

15:00 – Arrival at Childukhtaron, hiking about 2 hours  

CHILDUKHTARON Valley

Childukhtaron is translate as the valley of the Forty Girls, which is associated with an interesting legend. According to this legend, 40 stone blocks towering over the valley were once beautiful and charming girls. When enemies came to the valley and decided to make them their concubines, the inhabitants of the mountains prayed and asked Allah to turn themselves into silent stones.

Among the locals, there is also another legend, according to which the rocks grew on this place after a fierce battle with Genghis Khan. Defending their land, 40 young women blocked the path of Cinghizkhan himself. However, the forces were unequal and the riders died in battle. At this very place, huge boulders have grown, decorating the valley.

Every spring, in memory of the dead sisters, local women decorate the area with wreaths and beautiful ribbons. This tradition arose independently and it is heading every spring when the valley wakes up from its sleep and covered with greenery and flowers.

16:00 – Return to Dushanbe

19:30 – Arrival at Dushanbe, accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 2650 m.
• Elevation: +1800 m.
• Hiking distance: 5 km

Dushanbe – Iskanderkul Lake – Dushanbe (280 km, 6 h. drive)

08:00 – Breakfast in hostel

09:00 – Pick up tourists from the hotel and departure to Fann Mountains side

On way we will drive via Varzob gorge, Anzob pass (3,600 meter above sea level) and Fann Mountains

Fann Mountains offer a unique destination experience, with turquoise lakes, high peaks, and ancient legends. There are over 30 stunning mountain lakes and a dozen peaks soaring over 5,000 meters in a relatively small area of 650 km².

12:00 – Arrival at Iskanderkul

ISKANDERKUL LAKE

The lake is located in the north, approximately 180 km (3-hour drive) from Dushanbe along a well-maintained highway at a high altitude. It is named after Alexander the Great, who visited the region during his campaign to India from Central Asia. The Lake is located in the Fan Mountains, a region renowned for its natural beauty, and has a rich and significant history. Several notable peaks surround it, including Bodhona, Chapdara, Maria, Mirali and Zindon, with the highest being Chimtarga, which reaches an impressive 5,487 meters.

During this tour, participants will have the opportunity to visit five remarkable locations, each with its own unique history and natural beauty.

BUCEPHALUS CAVE. Legend has it that the Macedonian horse, Bucephalus, drank water from the lake during a rest stop after a long journey and fell ill. The commander himself went further to India, leaving his faithful horse here. However, even at such a great distance, he felt the death of his master and threw himself into the lake, remaining in it forever.

13:00 – Time for lunch

FANN NIAGARA WATERFALL. In the vicinity of Lake Iskanderkul is an aged juniper bush, adorned with vibrant ribbons. This unique tree is a popular destination for visitors to the area, who often leave personal tokens as a gesture of their return. The nearby 43-meter waterfall, known as "Fan Niagara," is another notable attraction.

KULI MORON. In the vicinity of Iskanderkul is another lake known as Kuli Moron (Snake Lake). Local folklore speaks of a significant snake population inhabiting the lake. Local folklore asserts that there are two instances when these reptiles are known to refrain from attacking: when they are in the water and when people are drinking water.

PANJ-CHASHMA. The location known as "Panj-chashma" – meaning "Five Springs" in English – is home to an extraordinary natural phenomenon, where pure spring water flows from five highlands into Lake Iskandarkul.

17:00 – Continue trip to Panjakent

20:00 – Arrival at Panjakent and accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 900 m.
• Elevation: -1750 m.
• Hiking distance: 4 km

Panjakent – Seven Lakes – Dushanbe (320 km, 6 h. drive)

09:00 – After breakfast drive to the Seven Lakes.

10:30 – Our hike will start from the 1^st Lake Mijgon.

SEVEN LAKES

Welcome to MIJGON Lake! It's nestled at an altitude of 1,640 meters above sea level. Its name has a lovely origin in the Tajik language, where it comes from the word "eyelashes."

Lake SOYA. In the Tajik language, "shadow" is the word for this lake, and it's easy to see why! It's nestled between tall rocks, basking in the shade for most of the day.

Lake HUSHOR. Just 400 meters away, Hushor awaits. As you approach, you'll spot a lively stream connecting the two.

Lake NOFIN. Lake Nofin and Hushor are just 500 meters apart, but the route along the winding path is a full kilometer.

13:00 – Lunch at Nofin lake, picnic

14:00 – Return trip to Dushanbe

15:30 – On way visit Old Panjakent / Sanjarshah Castle

SANJARSHAH CASTLE

The Sanjarshah fortress was one of the eastern settlements of the medieval Sogd from the 5th to 8th and 9th centuries. It covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and its main parts—Shahristan, Kohandiz, and the watchtower—have been thoroughly explored. It is located in the city of Penjikent, in the village of Sujina, and is also known as the old Penjikent.

16:00 – Toward Dushanbe

20:00 – Arrival at Dushanbe, accommodation to hotel

• Altitude above sea level: 1700 m. (at Seven Lakes)
• Elevation: +800 m.
• Hiking distance: 7 km

Departure day

During the day escorting travelers from Dushanbe International Airport