Expedition to Fann Mountains

★ Trace Back Trading Days of Ancient Silk Road

After breakfast, we’ll first have an excursion to the 2,500-year-old Hisor Fortress, which was once a flourishing settlement on the ancient Silk Road that connected the East and the West. It had undergone numerous regime changes, and finally declined along with the Silk Road in the early 20th century. After a one-hour drive, arrive at the architectural complex and admire the huge arched gateway, red brick fortified walls, and ancient Islamic schools, as well as the neat caravanserai, which was built in the early 19th century for the Silk Road traders and their camels.

In its horse riding field, you may spot young people’s equestrian skills winning them rapturous applause. The fortress also boasts of being a wedding center, adding a touch of romance. If you're lucky enough to encounter a wedding, seize your chance to learn about exotic wedding customs, such as the unveiling ceremony: the bride wears her veil for the first two days of the wedding, and on the third day, the veil will be unveiled by the groom or an elder, symbolizing the official start of a new life.

After the historic exploration, soak up the relaxed ambience and fresh air mingled with a faint fragrance of flowers in Rudaki Park, which was built to commemorate the medieval poet Rudaki, revered as the “father of Persian poetry.” Then, tick off a series of Soviet-style buildings from the exterior: the magnificent National Library, the Palace of Nations, the Stele with the Emblem of Tajikistan, the Parliament, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Dushanbe Flagpole, which is the world’s second-tallest flagpole, 165 meters (541 feet) in height! We’ll also admire the Statue of Ismoil Somoni, which is in memory of the "Father of the Tajik Nation."

Afterward, visit the National Museum, showing an overall history of the country with more than 50,000 artifacts spanning from the Bronze Age (2,000 BC-2,900 BC) to the 20th century, including cultural relics related to Zoroastrianism (the religion of the ancient Persian Empire) and Buddhism, as well as medieval statues and Islamic-style pottery. Next, head to the opulent Navruz Palace, decorated with magnificent wood carvings, mosaics, murals, crystals, etc. It was originally planned to be the world’s largest tea house and now boasts 12 halls with diverse functions, such as restaurants, galleries, and conference rooms. Please note that we’ll only admire it from the exterior if there’s an ongoing national meeting or an international summit.

Finally, experience the rich local market life in the bustling Asian Bazaar. Browse the neat stalls teeming with fruits, dried goods, colorful spices, and daily necessities, and feast your eyes on the exquisite Suzani fabrics in vibrant colors, embroidered with elaborate patterns like the sun, flowers and geometric designs!

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Atlas Dushanbe (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll drive for around 1.5 hours to Nurek City and admire the Nurek Dam, the world's second-highest dam, around 300 meters (984 feet) high. After leaving Dushanbe, enjoy a moment of escape from the city’s hustle and bustle when the urban landscape is replaced by layers of mountains and plain fields. You may also encounter passionate bikers and villagers herding cattle or selling watermelons on the roadsides. We’ll stop by a viewing platform for panoramic views of the grand dam nestled on the Vakhsh River, one of the main rivers in Tajikistan, and the Nurek Reservoir, whose vast green waters stretch far away, surrounded by red mountains. On hot summer days, with temperatures sometimes reaching above 35℃ (95℉), the water evaporates, which creates a misty fairyland. The Nurek Reservoir also provides a variety of entertainment, including hiking and fishing, and you can bring some food to enjoy a picnic if you wish! After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to Dushanbe, and the rest of the day is at your command.

► Recommended Activities in Dushanbe (at your own expense)
After a short rest, head to 58 Shodmoni Street to visit Haji Yaqub Mosque, the main mosque in Dushanbe, where locals regularly gather to pray on Fridays. Admire the grand building adorned with blue domes, magnificent chandeliers, and carved columns, which all highlight the classic aesthetics of Islamic architecture. It closes at 23:00 and is free of charge. Afterward, enjoy some Turkish cuisine at the nearby Merve Cafe. Try the grilled meat, pita bread, a nut cake, and Turkish tea. The average cost per person is TJS 50-100 (USD 5-10).

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Atlas Dushanbe (4 stars) or similar

★ Explore Stunning Iskanderkul Lake in the Fann Mountains

Today, say farewell to Dushanbe and explore Iskanderkul Lake, the largest and most beautiful lake in the Fann Mountains. We’ll head north along the M34 Highway, along with spectacular scenery of mountains and waters, and drive through the Anzob Pass at an altitude of 3,372 meters (11,063 feet). After about 3 hours, arrive at the triangle-shaped Iskanderkul Lake, whose clear and green water is in sharp contrast to the red rocks on the surrounding slopes. In local folklore, even Alexander the Great was deeply fascinated by the lake, and made his eastward expedition here. However, it’s just a legend, which lacks historical evidence. Nevertheless, the part of its name, Iskander, does indeed refer to “Alexander” in Persian.

Later, enjoy a 40-minute hike along the riverbank until you reach the Iskanderkul Waterfall, which cascades down from a height of around 40 meters (131 feet). Ascend to the observation deck, closely immerse yourself in the roars of the water hitting rocks, and take in the breathtaking scenery, including nearby mud-brown mountains and snow-clad peaks far away. Please be cautious about the deck floor with gaps, and hold onto your belongings to prevent them from falling. We’ll also cross a small hill overlooking Iskanderkul Lake to admire the Snake Lake, locally known as Kulimoron, where the reflections of the aquatic plants deceive you into mistaking them for snakes.

At noon, return to Iskanderkul Lake, and we’ll leave the rest of the day for you to explore the area at your own pace. You can bask in the sun on the pebble beach, rent a boat on your own to cruise the lake, or ask your guide to accompany you to view the surrounding scenery. If you’re a swimmer, please be aware that the lake water is usually frigid, and the temperature doesn't exceed 10°C (50℉) even in summer! At last, enjoy an overnight stay in a guesthouse near the lake. Appreciating the starry night sky on the plateau must be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Zumrad Guesthouse, Iskanderkul Lake or similar

Today, we’ll drive through Zarafshan Valley and Alauddin Lakes, which feature unrealistically highly saturated hues, and arrive at Panjakent in 5 hours, a prosperous settlement on the ancient Silk Road. First, visit the ancient city of Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sarazm literally means "the beginning of the earth", as the site bears testimony to the settled populations in Central Asia from 4,000 BC to 3,000 BC. A villager accidentally discovered a bronze axe in 1976; since then, the vanished city has been able to reemerge with its ruins, including metallurgical and pottery workshops, palaces and altars. Among so many exhibits, the "Lady of Sarazm," a female skeleton surrounded by jewelry, shells from the nearby ocean, and bracelets from ancient India, and a cylindrical bull-shaped seal with distinct Mesopotamian characteristics, both deserve your attention.

Then, learn more about Sogdians in the Republican Museum of History and Local Lore of Rudaki, which displays exhibits unearthed from the ancient city, including pottery, wood carvings, elaborate traditional jewelry, and murals, as well as the diverse domestic and foreign coins, which are evidence that the Sogdian merchants once conducted prosperous trade here. You’ll also be impressed by the Sogdian ossuaries. Although Buddhism was widely spread in the Sogdian region, the majority of people in Panjakent believed in Zoroastrianism, holding the belief that fire could purify everything. They rejected burial in the ground or cremation to protect the earth and fire, while they would place the deceased's body on an open platform for birds to peck, and then collect the bones in the baked clay container.

Afterward, head to the outskirts to visit the Ancient Town of Panjakent, one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in Central Asia. Its former urban outline can still be vaguely discerned: the western citadel was the rulers’ residence; the eastern inner city boasts intersecting streets, with main roads measuring 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) wide, lined with houses, workshops, and even two temples. Standing on the city wall, catch a panoramic view of the modern Panjakent.

Today’s tour ends at a less commercialized but authentic bazaar. Mingle with the locals and browse the shelves teeming with daily necessities and snacks, racks of traditional clothing and fabrics, and grids loaded with colorful spices, candies and pickles piled like small mountains, as well as large bags neatly placed on the ground, containing fresh vegetables and fruits like potatoes, pomegranates and oranges. At last, you’ll be transferred back to the hotel.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Panjakent Plaza Hotel (3 stars) or similar

Today, your private guide will accompany you 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Panjakent to explore Seven Lakes, a chain of high-altitude glacial lakes taking on varied hues of emerald, turquoise and dark blue. According to local lore, an old man got lost in the valley, and his seven daughters, who failed to find him, cried oceans of tears, which finally formed the lakes. As we enter the mountains, scenic views resembling a pastoral painting unfold: the dirt road becomes winding and rough with stones and sparse vegetation; mud huts and temporary shelters made of wood and stones are scattered on the slopes; clear lakes adorned with green trees lie in the valley peacefully; and where the utility poles extend, there are simple villages.

Our first stop will be the 4th lake, Nofin, where we’ll enjoy a short hike. Walking along the turquoise water, you’ll see clusters of green plants scattered along the drab mountain slope on the opposite side, with red- and blue-tiled houses nestled among them. After the hike, hop in the car and pass by the 5th lake, Khurdak, the smallest of the seven. Continue driving until we reach the 6th lake, Marguzor, regarded as the largest and most impressive, from which we’ll hike to the 7th lake, Hazorchasma. En route, cross a small gravel hill, atop which you won’t miss marvelous bird’s-eye views of the lakes and the valley. Beside Hazorchasma lies a flat grassland which beckons campers. Why not have a picnic here, with the light blue lake, snow-capped mountains and blue sky as a dramatic backdrop? During the hikes, you may encounter lazy grazing donkeys, innocent shepherds and local people carrying firewood, who live simple yet happy lives. The locals greet people by placing their left hand on the chest with a sincere smile, and you can greet back in the same way. Finally, we’ll drive back to Panjakent.

► Tip: As the altitudes of the lakes gradually increase, ranging from over 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) to 2,400 meters (7,874 feet), the temperature decreases, so it’s advisable to bring a coat. A dust-proof mask and sunglasses are also necessary.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Panjakent Plaza Hotel (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we will drive back to Dushanbe along the M34 Highway, which connects the capital and Khujand. About 3 hours later, we’ll pass through the 5,000-meter (16,404-foot) long Anzob Tunnel, also called the "Tunnel of Death," for its lack of lighting and ventilation facilities and numerous hidden pits. Even after the reconstruction in 2017, the tunnel remains dimly lit, especially with the erratic electricity supply. However, have faith in our skilled local driver who is so familiar with the road conditions, and fully immerse yourself in the excitement and stunning scenery! Out of the tunnel, keep on driving for around 2 hours. The views on both sides vary along the way: unmelting snow on the towering peaks set against large white clouds in the blue sky, small houses hidden in the greenery, cliffs, and streams - the incredible beauty of nature makes all the hardships worthwhile! After arriving in Dushanbe and completing the check-in procedure, enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace.

► Recommended Activities in Dushanbe (at your own expense)
If you are a fan of opera or ballet, watching a performance at Ayni Opera House on Rudaki Street would be a blast. The ticket fee ranges from TJS 30 to 100 (USD 3-10), and it's advisable to check the timetable on its official website in advance. After that, stroll around Rudaki Square to take in the charming night views, where small fountains and landmark buildings are lit up in changing colors, with thick clouds floating in the vast, deep blue sky as the backdrop.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Atlas Dushanbe (4 stars) or similar

Today, your Tajikistan private tours come to an end. Your guide and the driver will escort you to the airport according to your flight time and see you off. Wish you a pleasant journey home!

If you desire to explore other parts of Tajikistan, such as the legendary M41 Pamir Highway and Wakhan Corridor, a vital part of the ancient Silk Road at the border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan, or the other four “stans” in Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, which beckon you with their rich Islamic cultures, feel free to contact us, and we’ll tailor for you the most suitable itinerary!

Meal: Breakfast