A 14-Day Tour of Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan: Along The Mysterious Pamirs

Highlights of the Trip

This exciting 14-Day tour along the mysterious Pamirs is full of immersive cultural experiences and first-hand historical knowledge. Travel around some of the most beautiful locations that Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have to offer, including remarkable mountainous stretches, scattered traditional villages, and dramatic rivers. Tajikistan is an intact, unparalleled, and relatively unexplored country with plenty to offer the seeking adventurer. In this tour, you will unearth the delightful destinations of Dushanbe, Hissor Village, Kalai Khumb Village, striking Khorog, Traditions of Ash and the fabulous Tashkent. You will be left breathless not only by the mountainous heights of the striking Pamir’s, but by the unforgettable picturesque scenery. During this enthralling tour, you will also uncover the magnificent ‘Buddha in Nirvana’, Varzob gorge, and enjoy a visit to the world’s second highest botanical garden. After exploring Tajikistan, be mesmerized by the hidden treasure that is Kyrgyzstan, finally you will love a little taste of Uzbekistan to finish off the tour. This relatively untouched destination offers pure cultural and traditional experiences, from the unique Osh Bazaar to the oldest market in Central Asia that is Chorsu Bazaar. This exhilarating tour provides you with the perfect introduction to the Stan’s, as well as the culture and tradition that surrounds them. Also don’t miss the impressive Fergana Valley and Kamchik Pass.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Tajikistan

Dushanbe

• Museum of National Antiquities: Located in the heart of Dushanbe, this museum is a treasure trove of archaeological artifacts and ancient relics. It showcases the rich history and culture of Tajikistan, with exhibits spanning from the Neolithic era to the present day.
• National Museum: Another must-visit for history buffs, the National Museum is the largest museum in Central Asia. Its collection includes over 30,000 artifacts, ranging from prehistoric fossils to traditional handicrafts.
• Ismoili Somoni: This grand statue, situated in the centre of Dushanbe, pays tribute to the founder of the Tajik nation. Ismoili Somoni was a 9th-century ruler who united the people of Tajikistan and is celebrated as a national hero.
• Rudaki Park: Located near the National Museum, this park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and is a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
• Local Bazaar: No trip to Dushanbe is complete without a visit to the local bazaar. Here, you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional market and find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.
• Hissor Town and Fortress: Just a short drive from Dushanbe lies the ancient town of Hissor, home to a 16th-century fortress. The fortress is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Medrassah Kuhna: This beautiful religious school, built in the 16th century, is a prime example of traditional Tajik architecture. Its intricate tile work and colorful domes make it a must-see for anyone interested in Islamic art and culture.
• Museum of Tajik Way of Life: Located in Hissor town, this open-air museum showcases the traditional way of life in Tajikistan. Visitors can explore reconstructed homes, workshops, and everyday objects from different regions of the country.
• Mausoleum of Sufi Saint Mahdumi Azam: This sacred site is a place of pilgrimage for many Sufi Muslims. The mausoleum is dedicated to the 19th-century Sufi saint and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
• Varzob Gorge: For nature lovers, a visit to Varzob Gorge is a must. This stunning canyon, located just outside of Dushanbe, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and camping.
• Khoja Obi Garm Thermal Springs: Tucked away in the mountains, these natural hot springs are the perfect place to relax and unwind. The water is believed to have healing properties and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Kalaikhumb

• Mehri Modar: This is a famous mausoleum located in the city of Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. It is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
• Hulbuk Ancient City: This ancient city is in the Khatlon region of Tajikistan and is believed to date back to the 5th century BC. It is a well-preserved archaeological site and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
• Pamir Mountains: These majestic mountains are a must-see for any traveller visiting Tajikistan. They are the highest mountain range in Central Asia, with peaks reaching over 7,000 meters. The Pamir Mountains are also known as the ‘Roof of the World.’

Parshinev Village

• Vamar Fortress: This ancient fortress is in the Vamar Gorge of Tajikistan and dates to the 12th century. It is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Pir-I-Shoh Nosir: This is another popular mausoleum located in the city of Khujand. It is believed to be the final resting place of the Persian poet, Nosir Khusrav, who lived in the 11th century.

Khorog

• Khorog Museum: This museum is in the city of Khorog and is dedicated to preserving the culture and history of the Pamir people. It is a great place to learn about the local traditions, customs, and way of life.
• Pamiri House: These traditional houses can be found in the Pamir Mountains and are a unique architectural marvel. They are built with stone and mud and have distinctively shaped roofs to withstand the harsh mountain weather.
• Garam Chashma: This hot spring is in the Gorno-Badakhshan region of Tajikistan and is believed to have healing properties due to its high mineral content. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Ishkashim Village: This small village is in the Wakhan Corridor region and is home to the Wakhi people, a unique ethnic group with their own language and culture. It is a great place to experience traditional village life in Tajikistan.
• Namadgut Village: This village is situated in the heart of the Pamir Mountains and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding valleys. It is also home to the famous Wakhi yurt, a traditional nomadic dwelling.
• Kushan Expire Time Fortress: This ancient fortress is in the Vakhsh Valley and dates to the 1st century BC. It is believed to have been built by the Kushan Empire and offers a glimpse into the country’s ancient past.
• Oston-I Shobi Mardon Shrine: This shrine is in the city of Khujand and is dedicated to the 10th century poet, Mardon Khushnawaz. It is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and is also a great place to learn about Tajik literature and poetry.

Yamg

• Yamg Village: This remote village is in the Wakhan Corridor and is famous for its traditional Pamiri houses and cultural heritage. It is also home to the famous Silk Road Museum, showcasing the region’s history as a major trading route.
• Museum of Sufi Muboraki Vakhoni: This museum is in the village of Vakhoni and is dedicated to the famous Sufi saint, Muborak Vakhoni. It is a peaceful place to learn about Sufism and the teachings of this revered figure.
• Yamchun Village: This village is in the Wakhan Corridor and is famous for its ancient ruins and hot springs. It is also home to the famous ‘Fortress of Thousand Rooms,’ a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Bibi Fatima Hot Spring: This hot spring is in the town of Bibi Fatima in the Pamir Mountains. It is believed to have healing properties and is a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to relax and rejuvenate.
• Pamir Valley: This valley is in the Pamir Mountains and is known for its stunning natural beauty. It is a popular destination for trekking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Zong and Vrang Villages: These two villages are in the Wakhan Corridor and are known for their traditional Wakhi houses and cultural heritage. They are also great places to experience the simple and peaceful life of the locals.
• Wakhan Corridor: This narrow strip of land is in the eastern part of Tajikistan and is home to some of the most remote and untouched areas of the country. It is a great place for adventure seekers and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Lyangar

• Gallery of Petroglyphs: This open-air museum is in the Vakhsh Valley and is home to over 6,000 ancient petroglyphs dating back to the 3rd century BC. It is a unique and fascinating place to learn about the country’s ancient history.
• ‘Master of the Sun’ Shrine: This shrine is in the city of Khorog and is dedicated to a local legend about a man who controlled the sun. It is a popular site for pilgrims and is a great place to learn about the local folklore.
• Alichur Village: This small village is in the Pamir Mountains and is known for its stunning scenery and traditional way of life. It is also a popular spot for bird watching and offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Murgab

• Karakul Lake: This high-altitude lake is in the Pamir Mountains and is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning surroundings. It is a popular spot for camping and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kyrgyzstan

Osh

• Osh Bazaar: A bustling market in Osh, offering a wide variety of goods and local products.
• Suleyman Too: A holy mountain in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, known for its cultural and historical significance.

Uzbekistan

Fergana, Rishtan, and Margilan

• Yodgorlik Silk Factory: A traditional silk factory showcasing the process of silk-making.
• Kumtepa Bazaar: A bustling market filled with traditional handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce.
• Rishtan: A famous pottery village known for its vibrant and intricate ceramics.
• Dangara Village: Dangara Village is a small village located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It is known for its traditional silk production and is often referred to as the ‘silk capital’ of Uzbekistan. Visitors can witness the entire silk-making process here and purchase high-quality silk products.

Kokand

• Khudayar Khan Palace: The Khudayar Khan Palace is a historic palace built in the 19th century and was the residence of the Khudayar Khan, the last ruler of the Kokand Khanate. The palace is a beautiful blend of Islamic and Russian architectural styles and is a must-visit for history buffs.
• Narbutabey: Narbutabey is a small village located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It is known for its traditional pottery making and is often referred to as the ‘pottery village’ of Uzbekistan. Visitors can witness the skilled potters at work and purchase beautiful handmade pottery.
• Royal Cemetery:  A sacred burial ground for the Kyrgyz people and is known for its unique grave markers, which are shaped like stone towers. Visitors can also find the graves of prominent Kyrgyz leaders and heroes here.
• Khaidarov Workshop: The Khaidarov Workshop is a traditional woodcarving workshop located in the city of Margilan in Uzbekistan. It has been in operation for over 100 years and is known for its intricate woodcarvings, which are used to decorate mosques, palaces, and other buildings in Uzbekistan.
• Kamchik Pass: The Kamchik Pass is a mountain pass located in the Tien Shan Mountain range in Uzbekistan. It connects the cities of Tashkent and Fergana and is known for its scenic views and challenging terrain. It is a popular spot for trekking and hiking among adventure enthusiasts.

Tashkent

• Barak-Khan Madrasah: An ancient Islamic educational institution in Tashkent, featuring intricate tilework and a beautiful courtyard.
• Tillya Sheykh Mosque: A stunning mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, known for its golden dome and grand interior.
• Chorsu Bazaar: A bustling and colourful market in Tashkent, offering a wide variety of goods, from traditional spices to handmade crafts.
• Kukeldash Madrassah: The Kukeldash Madrassah was built in the 16th century and is one of the largest madrassahs in Central Asia. The madrassah is known for its beautiful courtyard and intricate tile work, making it a popular tourist attraction in Tashkent.

Other landmarks to explore during your free time in Tashkent:

• Khast-Imam Complex: A historic religious complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, housing the oldest Quran in the world.
• Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum:  A sacred site in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, dedicated to a Sufi saint and renowned for its intricate blue tilework.
• Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari: A prestigious institute in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, dedicated to the study of Islamic theology and law.
• Applied Arts Museum: A must-visit museum in Tashkent, showcasing the beautiful traditional arts and crafts of Uzbekistan.
• Navoi Theatre: A grand theater in Tashkent, known for its impressive architecture and hosting various cultural performances.
• Amir Timur Square: A central square in Tashkent, featuring a statue of the famous Central Asian conqueror and surrounded by government buildings and museums.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Enjoy a Traditional Folk Performance at The Museum of Musical Instruments: Enjoy a lively folk performance while exploring the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Witness Traditional Sewing and Craft Methods in Mehri Modar: Witness the intricate sewing and craft techniques of the Mehri Modar artisans.

Visit a customary Pamiri House: Visit a traditional Pamiri house and watch locals create beautiful Pamiri scull-caps and socks.

Enjoy Local Cuisine in Ishkashim Village: Indulge in delicious local cuisine while taking in the scenic views.

Stay in Traditional Homestays: Immerse yourself in local culture by staying in traditional homestays.

Observe the Creation of the Rubab by a Local: Observe a local craftsman create the traditional Pamiri string instrument.

Observe the Creation of Pamiri Rugs: Watch the intricate process of making Pamiri rugs, a traditional handicraft.

Climb up to View the Largest Gallery of Petroglyphs at Lyangar: Climb up to see the largest collection of ancient carvings at the Petroglyphs Gallery.

Visit Local Handicraft Shops in Murgab to Browse Handmade Souvenirs: Browse through handmade souvenirs at local handicraft shops in this charming village.

Hike up Sulaiman Mountain: Hike up this majestic mountain for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Observe a Demonstration of Ikat Dying: Learn about the traditional dying technique of Ikat through a demonstration.

Watch Weavers at Yodgorlik Silk Factory: Watch skilled weavers create beautiful silk textiles at this renowned factory.

Watch Master Wood Carvers in Dangara Village: Witness the impressive skills of master wood carvers as they create intricate designs in Dangara Village.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan:

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. In Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, give Plov a try, a hearty rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and various spices; Lagman, a popular noodle dish made with hand-pulled noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and a spicy broth, often topped with meat; Samsa, a savoury pastry typically made with a flaky dough and filled with minced meat, onions, and spices; Shashlik, also known as kebab, consisting of skewered and grilled meat, served with vegetables and bread, and Manti, a type of dumpling filled with minced meat and onions, and usually served with sour cream or spicy tomato sauce. In Tajikistan, try Osh, a national dish and Tajik household staple cooked with rice, meat, carrots, onions, and a variety of spices with a smoky, rich flavour; Shurbo, a hearty, comforting soup made with lamb or beef broth and filled with vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, with yogurt or sour cream; and Qurutob, made with layers of flaky bread, thinly sliced vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce called gurut.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Unwind in the Thermal Springs at Khoja Obi Garm: Tajikistan, known for its breathtaking landscapes, offers the perfect opportunity to unwind in the thermal springs at Khoja Obi Garm, surrounded by stunning mountains.

Relax at the Mineral Hot Springs Garam Chasma: In Kyrgyzstan, take a break from your adventurous trekking and relax at the mineral hot springs Garam Chasma, known for its therapeutic properties and picturesque views.

Have a Bath in the Bibi Fatima Hot Spring: Uzbekistan, a country rich in culture and history, invites you to have a bath in the Bibi Fatima Hot Spring, believed to have healing powers and located in the heart of the ancient Silk Road.

Accommodation of this Tour

Dushanbe: Hotel Sheraton 4-5*

Kalaikhumb: Hotel Karon Palace 3*

Khorog: Hotel Serena Inn/Lal

Yamg: Traditional Pamir House Homestay of Aydar Malikmamadov (grandson of famous Muboraki Vakhoni)

Murghab: Hotel Pamir

Osh: Hotel Sunrise 3*

Fergana: Fergana 3* Hotel

Tashkent: 3* Tashkent Hotel