Fann mountains: The land of blue lakes. Pamir Alai. Trekking

Fann Mountains: The Land of Blue Lakes. Trekking. 11, 14, 15 or 19 days.

Region: Pamir Alai, Tadjikistan
Activity: trekking
Trip Category: regular
Difficulty: easy to difficult (depending of variant), no need of special skill and gear
Season: June - October
Tour to join: July, 1-11; August, 12 - 22 Dushanbe-Dushanbe Var.1 please for the price offer. NEW!: Fann Mountains + Best of Uzbekistan, August, 15 - 31 please for the offer!.

Fann Mountains (Fanns) is an integral part of a giant mountain system – Pamir Alai. It is the land of lakes, clouded peaks, ancient legends. Picturesque valleys of Zindan and Archamaidan, mysterious beauty of Bolshoi Allo ("Big Echo") lake surrounded with vertical rocks, beautiful chain of Kulikalon and Alaudin lakes, a number of waterfalls, fairy wonderful and attracting peaks: Chimtarga, Chapdara, Bolshaya and Malay Ganza will remain in your memory forever. Stable sunny weather, amazing views and interesting cultural experience are the key features of Fann mountains. After trekkings in the mountains we spend several days in ancient cities - Samarkand and Tashkent and enjoy noisy oriental bazaars and unique architectural monuments.

We offer 3 itineraries, from easy 14 days trekking with mostly hut accommodation (Variant 1) to adventureous 19-days trekking (Variant 3). Variant 2 is somewhere in between.

Itinerary (variant 1, 11 days, medium grade):

Day 1

Arrival to Dushanbe. Meeting at airport. Transfer to hotel. Hotel accommodation. Dushanbe is the colourful capital of Tajikistan. For the first time the city of Dushanbe was mentioned in literary sources only in the early 18th century, although scientists discovered at the site a number of archaeological monuments belonging to the Greco-Bactrian period, as well as a few medieval settlements. Initially the city sprang up as a small settlement at a crossroads, where a large bazaar used to be organized on Mondays. Thence, the name of the city, ‘dushanbe’ translating as ‘Monday’ from Tajik. This city, the largest one in Tajikistan, features squares that have retained the memory of numerous historic events, ancient fortresses that witnessed major historic battles and museums that can relate the stories of old civilisations. Dushanbe is the capital of a country, where Ismail Somoni, an outstanding ruler from the Samanid dynasty, after whom the monetary unit of Tajikistan, somoni, was named and the Pamirs’ highest peak, Ismail Somoni Peak (former Communism Peak), was renamed in 1998, founded his great empire. Present-day Dushanbe is a modern capital, a sunlit city with a highly developed infrastructure, which, probably, is the leader in the number of streets, avenues and squares named after poets and writers. Your excursion to Dushanbe will include the Rudaki Park, which is the city’s central garden; botanical garden. We also visit one of the most famous tourist attractions of Tajikistan - ancient castle of Hisor (Gissar fortress). Overnight in the hotel.

Day 2

Transfer to Artuch mountain camp (2200 m). After the breakfast at the hotel, we depart from Dushanbe. We shall get into the mountainous region of the country via the Anzob Pass (3,373 m), which crosses the Gissar Range from south to north, the road going further to the Zarafshan Range. Today the road runs in a tunnel reducing the total travel time by 1-2 hours. The Zarafshan and Gissar Ranges run parallel east to west, only their western ends joining at the border between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The world-famous Fann Mountains are situated to the right of the place the two ranges close. However, to reach the area we must first drive down the Anzob Pass to the rapid Fandarya River cutting the Zarafshan Range south to north. Travelling further down the road we get to the small town of Ayni perched on the bank of the powerful Zarafshan River. After driving a little down the stream we turn to the south and make our way towards the mountain village of Artuch. Mausoleum of famous Tadjik medieval poet Rudaki is en route in Padjud village. A bit deeper into the mountains we shall find our destination point, stationary mountaineers’ base camp (BC) ‘Artuch’ (2200m). Welcome! Wooden chalets and cottages of the base camp are set amidst wide expanse of juniper woods. ‘Artuch’ is a wonderful place, which is located in the heart of Fann Mountains not far away from the Tajikistan most beautiful lakes and highest peaks. The facilities consists of: 2 pax comfortable luxury cottages; Russian sauna (bania); meeting hall; dining hall; billiard hall; minimarket with the fresh feeding products; rental of equipment. Nanny goat’s milk here is like a honey - fantastically tasty and, due to alpine-herb diet in the nanny goat’s menu, causes curing effect on organism. In the evening it is quite cool there, that is why, please, put on something warm. Cellular telecommunication is available in ‘Artuch’.

Day 3

Start of trekking. Ascent to Kulikalon Lakes (2842 m; 7 km; 5 hrs). Only wonderful emotions and amazing impressions are waiting for you ahead! The desperate donkeys-workers are far away already, loaded with your luggage. Well-trodden trail takes us up Urjam River valley through mixed juniper and deciduous groves covering two giant scree dams steeply rising up the right-hand side of the tight gorge. The dams serve as natural filter making water in the stream absolutely transparent. In 2-3 hours the track levels and we top the upper dam, on the other side of which is turquoise necklace of Kulikalon Lakes (numbering 14) framed in jagged ridges and summits over 4000 -5000 m: Maria (4970 m), Mirali (5120 m), Rudaki (4900 m), Adamtash (4700 m) (the four peaks making so called “Kulikalon Wall”), Saryshah (4650 m) and Aurondag (4573 m). Below, just under your feet, there is a huge lake, and on the left side there are many others. However, the first one is the biggest, and its color is turquoise. Then we resume going on the right-hand side of the valley making a shortcut on the trail running straight across the juniper forest keeping the lakes on our left, heading to our Camp 1 set on the shore of the Bibidjanat Lake (2,700 m) where cozy tents are already set. Here you will have tasty dinner and a good rest. First overnight in tents. Do not miss last moments of the sunset to view the top of Mirali Peak fantastically coloured in red and rose.

Day 4

Hike over Alauddin Pass to Alauddin Lakes (2786 m; 7 km; 6 hrs). This day we steeply uphill out of juniper forest and pasture through alpine meadows to Alauddin Pass (3,860 m). On the way up we see vultures and eagles hovering in the blue sky. We enjoy a bird-eye view of Dushaha Lake and the entire Kulikalon Lake system. From the stony pass saddle impressive views eastwards to Chapdara River valley open up. Left to right, we see snow-&-ice-clad Chapdara Peak (5,050 m), Bodhona Peak (5,138 m) and Zamok Peak (5070 m), a clear-cut pyramid of Kaznok Peak (4200 m) and a “bowing head” of Adamtash Peak (4700 m). Down in the valley bottom we see a blue speck of Alauddin Lake (in fact, one of two major lakes) varying in colour from lilac to deep turquoise and providing a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the Chimtarga wall. We picnic on the green grassy spot 200 m below the saddle near a spring. A steep rocky descent brings us (in 2-3 hrs) to our campsite on the glade near the river flowing out of the Alauddin Lake (2,900 m). Easy afternoon walk around the lakes is followed by relaxation in tent and more than welcomed dinner. Sweet Tadjik song by our donkey men soothingly fills the air..

Day 5

Ascent to Mutnoje Lakes (3490 m; 5 km; 4 hrs). We steadily climb up not wide and rather short U-shaped Alaudding River valley. It is surprisingly calm out there. We hear no stone rumbling in the river as there is no river in sight: water is hidden under the three giant dams/steps (ancient moraines) stretching across the valley and obstructing the way. We only hear as wind is rustling and Ulars (Himalaian Snowcocks) waffling there up scree slope under the sheer high rocky valley sides. Towering peaks are looking over us. During the day we enjoy views of Kaznok Peak (4200 m), Zamok Peak (5070 m), Cherny Peak (5010 m), Paygambar Peak (4800 m), Energia Peak (5105 m) and dominant Chimtarga Peak (5487 m). Sever arctic zone climate conditions, overhanging glaciers, gigantic steep moraines, ice-polished valley sides are the reality of this area. On the way one can see natural phenomena: a rarefied birch grove and a small "Piala Lake" named for its round-shape bottom. Late lunch on the Mutnoje Lake shore. Camp 3 on the wide dam top of the lake amongst big boulders scattered everywhere. Most ambitious travellers then may opt for a round walking trip up left-hand side moraine to Kaznok Pass (400m) for a breathtaking panoramic view (+400m; 3km; 4hrs) (or as far as they can reach) while others may prefer to have a walk around the lake or just relax. As sun sets the owners of down stuff (jackets, pants and sleeping bags), at last, can give it a check and appreciate warmth and comfortablility of the gear. As water in the lake is reach in suspended clay particles, it is recommended that travellers avoid drinking raw water (boiled water or tea only). Dimox is proved to be good against altitude sickness and guarantees a good sleep.

Day 6

On one of this most difficult days we ascent to the foothill of Chimtarga pass (4454 m; 3 km; 6 hrs). Early wake up gives us rear opportunity of seeing/photographing of surrounding mountains mirror-reflected in the lake... The day is going to be, perhaps, most strenuous and challenging of the entire trek. First we bypass the lake on the right and cross over a stream running down from Chimtarga glacier. The trail takes us straight up to a big white boulder from where we carry on along the glacier. The glacier is notched in small channels carrying water and stones down to bigger streams giving birth to a river. We ascend along the level easy surface of the glacier until the slope steepened. Then we “storm” the extensive and steep scree slope on the zigzag. Having got to the top, we find some nice level spots among big boulders good for camping at 4500 m (the highest camp of the entire trek). Zeravshanskiy Range and Gissarskiy Ranges converge here giving astounding panoramic views and feel of the whole Fan mountain highland in the rays of the setting sun - as our reward for the hard day. Some persons prone to hypertension may feel altitude sickness tonight.

Day 7

Crossing the Chimtarga pass (4740 m, 1B* CD) - the highest pass among the simplest ones in the region. (3110 m; 12 km; 7 hrs). After breakfast you will get acquainted with the Chimtarga pass itself and have opportunity to enjoy the sight of the Fann mountains from its height. The 4,740 m-high Chimtarga Pass is reached within one hour of walking along the simple scree trail. The uppermost bit of 50-60 m may, for security reasons, require fixed roping on the snow - depending on general weather conditions of the year. From the both sides of the pass there are Energia and Chimtagra Peaks, and on the opposite side - the peaks of the Mutnoye lakes circle: Pakhamber (4938m), Zamok (5020m), quite far away, on the south there seen the peaks of Hissar ridge and on the North - the peaks of Zeravshan ridge. From the top of the area’s highest pass we see magnificent Fan mountains’ peaks: Bolshaya (Big) Ganza (5,308 m), Malaya (Small) Ganza (4,956 m), Energia Peak (5,105 m), Moskva Peak (5,046 m) and others. Undoubtedly, most of us feel these moments as a climax of the trek. Then descend to the Chimtarga River valley. Next we will have two hours trekking along the beautiful and wide valley of the river. And after it you will come up to the big beauty of the region - the Bolshoje Allo lake. Bolshoje Allo Lake is a real wonder of Fann Mountains and surely one of the most beautiful alpine lakes of the region. You can even swim in this blue reservoir and enjoy the warm sun of Pamir. The lake owes its origin to the gigantic landslide happened in 1916. The path on the downstream side of the dam leads to the enclosed valley of Zindon river (literally meaning "prison" due to extremely tight and narrow gorge sides “imprisoning” water that disappears underground). Camping on the lake shore (3,110 m).

Day 8

The rest day on Bolshoye Allo lake. Swimming in the lake. Sightseeing on Verkhneye (Upper) Allo lake (3 kms; 3 hrs), where you can admire a big waterfall. On the way the view onto Krasnaja Moskva Peak (5183 m), Blok Peak (4508 m), Amshut Peak (4840 m), Day Peak (4713 m), Skalnaja Stena (Rocky Wall) Peak (4734 m) and attached peaks and glaciers.

Day 9

Descent along Zindon river to the vast valley of Archamaidan river (1964 m; 10 km; 5-6 hrs). Meeting car. Transfer to village of Zimtut (or Gazza) - 15 km, 30 min. Downhill along the “imprisoned” (underground) Zindon River valley to the confluence with Amshut River. Past bottleneck, we see interesting natural phenomenon: a water stream rushing out (as if it’s “freed”) from under the giant rocky dam to the surface. On the way you will see Little Allo, a small emerald-turquoise lake situated in the Zindona Canyon at an elevation of 2,340m above sea level. It is filled with crystal clear water of a strikingly unusual colour! We introduce ourselves to simple life of Tadjik shepherds, taste their traditional "airan" (kind of yogurt), "round bread" and aroma tea. We shall go down into the Amshut River Valley, from where we shall be transferred to the village of Zimtut to stay for the night in a guest house.

Day 10

Transfer village Zimtut - Dushanbe (290 km, 8 h). We'll drive from the Fann Mountains to Dushanbe along the Zarafshan River again, this time upstream. At the town of Ayni we shall turn towards the Zarafshan Range and go up the Fandarya River, gradually gaining height as we climb the Anzob Pass (3,373 m). On your way there you will have a chance to stop and cast a farewell glance at the rocky peaks of the Zarafshan and Gissar Ranges hiding this wonderful place, the country of amazingly beautiful lakes, rocky mountains with snow-capped summits and variable moraine landscapes decorated with junipers, to which the wind gave bizarre shapes. Towards the evening we'll arrive in Dushanbe. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11

Transfer to the airport. Departure from Dushanbe.

Cost: please for the price offer.

Included: Meeting and seeing off in airport; all transfers according program; hotel accommodation 5* in Dushanbe in twins / double rooms, w/ breakfast; sightseeng program in Dushanbe; full board; accommodation in the mountain camp “Artuch”; accommodation in the guest house in the Zimtut village (or Gazza village) - 1 night; service during trekking part: full board; accommodation in double tents; mountain guide, cook, service staff; porter’s service and pack animals for transportation individual equipment (individual equipment weight max.10 kg.) Camping equipment (dining-tent, kitchenware); 1st aid kit; preparation of necessary documents; ecological fees.
Not included: International flights; visa fees, alcoholic beverages and other luxuries, insurance; personal items.
Options. Visa support, extra nights in Tashkent, Pendjikent and Samarkand, SGL accommodation, gear rental, extra excursions. Arrival and departure points might be changed to Dushanbe (recommended for less visa issues).

Itinerary (variant 2, 14 days, easy grade):

Day 1	Arrival in Tashkent. Meeting at airport. Transfer to Samarkand (290 km, 5 hrs). Hotel accommodation. Travelling by car we will cross the valley of the Syrdaria river and Djizak steppes, explore the daily way of the locals and enjoy the view of rocks called “The Gate of Tamerlan”.
Day 2	Transfer to Pendjikent (60 km; 1,5 h). A bit further, border formalities (Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing). Here we change our bus for a special mountain truck and continue transfer to the mountain base "Alaudin" (50 km, 2,5 hrs). The last 30 km the road goes along Pasrud river through canyons and green meadows. The rest of the day we spend for rest and trekking preparation. Accommodation in cottages (2700 m, DBL, lunch and dinner, hot shower, electricity).
Day 3	Acclimatization day. Hiking around the base on the Alaudin lakes shores. Hut accommodation (DBL FB).
Day 4	After breakfast at the base, simple hiking up to Mutnoje Lake along Chapdara river gorge (10 km, 4-5 hrs, + 900 m). Tent camp on the bank of the lake (3600 m), lunch, dinner. During a day we gain attractive panoramas of Kaznok, Zamok, Energia and Chimtarga peaks. Severe conditions of alpine mountain zone, hanging glaciers and steep moraines swells are actual in this region. On the way you can see rare birches and a small lake named for its round shape as "Piala lake", gigantic steps of glacier and polished rocks. High in the sky eagles are soaring around you.
Day 5	Daily round walking trip to the glacier for panoramic view, or much more impressive one - up to pass Kaznok (2 hrs; +400 m) or even Chimtarga pass (4700 m, 1B* grade, 4-5 hrs, +1000 m, see ascent description below at Var. 2 trip). From the passes there are impressive views of Chimtarga peak (5489 m) - the highest summit of Fan mountains, and Energia peak (5120 m) - common medium-grade climbing goal. Descent to Big Alaudin Lake for rest (possible swimming in +10° water!). Return to the base, dinner. Hut accommodation (DBL).
Day 6	Crossing of the Alaudin pass (3860 m, 10 km, 5-6 hrs, +960 m) from where an impressive view of Chapdara peak (5197 m) and the gorge of Chapdara river, then we admire the fascinating panorama of unique Kulikalon Wall with it's clouded peaks above 4500 m (Adamtash, Maria, Rudaki and Mirali peaks) and a crystal-clear emerald-blue water Kulikalon lakes (total 14 lakes) with a plenty of fish. Descent and camp on the bank of the Bibidjanat or Dushokha lakes (2900 m).
Day 7	Daily round walking trip. Possible goals: through easy Zierat pass (3320 m) to picturesque Zierat and Chukurak lakes or to Fluorit Pass (2900 m) then climb up Mt. Fluorite (3200 m) - fine views to Kulikalon Wall and all the lakes from there. You can visit old fluorite mines near the pass. Other option - go to Dushokha Lake on the foothill of Kulikalon Wall. Lunch during the hiking. Dinner at camp, overnight in tents (2 person tents), FB.
Day 8	Crossing Laudan pass (3630 m) along the ancient trail which was the only one connecting the local population to the world. Descent to the base (5-6 hrs, 10 km). Lunch and dinner at the base. Hut accommodation (DBL).
Day 9	Day of rest. Fairwell dinner, BBQ, firework. Hut accommodation (DBL FB).
Day 10	After breakfast transfer to the area's biggest Iskanderkul Lake (named after Alexander The Great, who, as it is believed, reached this remote site during one of his conquire expeditions). Visit of picturesque waterfall on Fandaria river - the only one flows from the Iskanderkul Lake. Transfer to mountain Urmitan kishlak (village) on the bank of Zeravshan river - the former capital of medieval feudal Falgar domain. Visit of local housings, smithy, potter and ancient mosque (XI centure). Traditional lunch (sitting on the floor, tasting of traditional prepared drinks "airan", "yogurt", "Uzbek round bread" and aroma Uzbek tea. Overnight in local house.
Day 11	Transfer to Samarkand via Pendjikent (110 km; 4 h). Hotel (DBL BB). Possible sightseeing to Pendjikent to the excavations of ancient city of Alexandria The Last, founded by and named after Alexander The Great; visiting the Museum of local lore, named after famous Tadjik medieval poet Rudaki.
Day 12	Samarkand. Optional sightseeing around the city and in the suburbs of Samarkand (famous Registan Square with 3 medresse, Timur (Tamerlan) Gur-Emir Mausoleum, Shakh-i-Zinda complex, Bibi-Khanim Mosque, the Sandy City of Afrosiab). Optional folklore concert in the evening. Hotel (DBL BB).
Day 13	Transfer Samarkand - Tashkent (290 km; 5 hrs). Hotel (DBL BB). Optional excursions.
Day 14	Transfer to the airport. Departure from Tashkent.

Itinerary (variant 3, 15 days, medium grade):

Day 1	Arrival in Tashkent. Meeting at airport. Transfer to Samarkand (290 km, 5 hrs). Hotel accommodation. Travelling by car we will cross the valley of the Syrdaria river and Djizak steppes, explore the daily way of the locals and enjoy the view of rocks called “The Gate of Tamerlan”. Optional excursion.
Day 2	Transfer to Pendjikent (60 km; 1,5 h). A bit further, border formalities (Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing). Here we change our bus for a special mountain truck and continue transfer to the mountain base "Artuch" (50 km, 2,5 hrs). The rest of the day we spend for rest and trekking preparation. Accommodation in tents (2200 m). Mausoleum of famous Tadjik medieval poet Rudaki en route in Padjud village.
Day 3	Start of trekking. We hike up to Kulikalonskie lakes through juniper forests and admire the fascinating panorama of unique Kulikalon Wall with it's clouded peaks above 4500 m (Adamtash, Maria, Rudaki and Mirali peaks) and a crystal-clear emerald-blue water Kulikalon lakes (total 14 lakes) with a plenty of fish. Camp on the bank of the Bibidjanat or Dushokha lakes (2900 m). (10 kms; 5 hrs; +700m).
Day 4	Daily round walking trip. Possible goals: through easy Zierat pass (3320 m) to picturesque Zierat and Chukurak lakes or to Fluorit Pass (2900 m) then climb up Mt. Fluorite (3200 m) - fine views to Kulikalon Wall and all the lakes from there. You can visit old fluorite mines near the pass. Other option - go to Dushokha Lake on the foothill of Kulikalon Wall. Lunch during the hiking. Dinner at camp, overnight in tents (2 person tents), FB.
Day 5	Crossing of the Alaudin pass (3860 m) from where an impressive view of Chapdara peak (5197 m) and the gorge of Chapdara river opens up, then we descent to the Alaudin lakes and Alaudin base. Accommodation in cottages (2700 m, DBL, lunch and dinner, hot shower, electricity). (7 km / 6 hrs / +900 m; - 1150 m). Far down you can see Alaudin lake with its amazing color changing from light-blue to bright ultramarine.
Day 6	Day of rest. Hiking around the base on the Alaudin lakes shores. Hut accommodation (DBL FB).
Day 7	After breakfast at the base, ascent to the Mutnoje lake (8 km, 4-5 hrs, + 800 m). Camp on the bank of the lake. (3600 m). During a day we gain attractive panoramas of Kaznok, Zamok, Energia and Chimtarga peaks. Severe conditions of alpine mountain zone, hanging glaciers and steep moraines swells are actual in this region. On the way you can see rare birches and a small lake named for its round shape as "Piala lake", gigantic steps of glacier and polished rocks. High in the sky eagles are soaring around you. Daily round walking trip up to pass Kaznok (2 hrs; +400 m). From a pass there is an impressive view of Chimtarga peak (5489 m) - the highest summit of Fann mountains.
Day 8	On one of this most difficult days we ascent to the foothill of Chimtarga pass. Camp (4500 m). (5 km., +900 m.) Ascent on the flat easy-walking and gentle glacier leads to steep screes, there are some grassed places where we can camping. Unforgettable views of Zeravshansky and Gissarsky ranges and the whole Fan mountains system in the colors of sunset are our reward.
Day 9	*Crossing the Chimtarga pass (4740 m, 1B CD)** - the highest pass among the simplest ones in the region. Descent from the pass along stone-scree rocks to the valley of Zindon river and further to Bolshoye Allo lake. Camp on the bank of lake (3180 m). (8 km; +300 m; 1.5 hrs; - 1500 m; 5 hrs). From the pass we enjoy a magnificent views of mountain "country" - Fan Mountains, Bolshaya (Big) Ganza (5308 m) and Malaya (Small) Ganza (4956 m), peak Energia (5120 m), Moskva peak (5046 m). Hard-hiking descent from the pass to the valley of Zindon river, and then an easy-hiking path to Bolshoye Allo lake which is one of the most amazing in its beautyr and inimitable in its colors. It was originated from gigantic landslide in 1916. Lower part of descent leads to the valley of Zindon river (the name of which means "Prison", because of rocks which squeeze the river from all sides).
Day 10	The rest day on Bolshoye Allo lake. Swimming in the lake. Sightseeing on Verkhneye (Upper) Allo lake (3 kms; 3 hrs), where you can admire a big waterfall. On the way the view onto Peak Moskva (5046 m) and attached peaks and glaciers.
Day 11	Descent along Zindon river to the vast valley of Archamaidan river (5-6 hrs). Meeting car. Camp (1600 m). During the descent introducing shepherds' way of life. Tasting traditional prepared drinks "airan", "yogurt", "Uzbek round bread" and aroma Uzbek tea.
Day 12	Transfer to Samarkand via Pendjikent (110 km; 4 h). Hotel. Possible sightseeing to Pendjikent to the excavations of ancient city of Alexandria The Last, founded by and named after Alexander The Great; visiting the Museum of local lore, named after famous Tadjik medieval poet Rudaki.
Day 13	Samarkand. Possible sightseeing around the city and in the suburbs of Samarkand (famous Registan Square with 3 medresse, Timur (Tamerlan) Gur-Emir Mausoleum, Shakh-i-Zinda complex, Bibi-Khanim Mosque, the Sandy City of Afrosiab). Hotel (DBL BB).
Day 14	Transfer Samarkand - Tashkent (290 km; 5 hrs). Hotel (DBL BB). Optional excursions.
Day 15	Transfer to the airport. Departure from Tashkent.

Itinerary (variant 4, 19 days medium to difficult grade):

Days 1-11

The same as inVariant 2 of above.

Day 12

Ascent up to Archamaidan river along a good unmetalled road till the confluence of Sarymat river. Camp on the bank of Sarymat river not far from the mouth of the river. (1850 m). (6 km; 3 hrs; +300 m). Vast valley of Archamaidan river is pleasant for the eyes with it's beautiful pictures. In the gorge of Sarymat river the old path will bring you in an hour to exotic Humorigung settlement, where houses of the locals are built from stones and situated quite close to the canyon walls.

Day 13

An interesting ascent along Sarymat river, goes among relic and juniper trees to the pass. Camp on a wide open meadow from where we see a magnificent mountain panoramic view. 3100 m. (10 km; 6 hrs; +1200 m).

Day 14

An easy-going ascent to Tavasang pass (3300 m) runs on a good grassed slopes. Descent from the col of the pass is long , crosses some spurs and leads to Hazarchashma lake. Camp on the shore of a picturesque lake (2450 m). (10 km; +200 m; -950 m; 6 hrs). On the way from the pass you can see coal mines (doesn't have industrial importance), it's used by locals to heat their huts. Observing the daily life of locals. During the descent we enjoy the view of Big Marguzor lake. Cascade of Marguzor lakes consists of small lakes quite differ from each other with their magic beauty and interesting legends.

Day 15

Sightseeing round Hazarchachma lake and short passage to Marguzor lake. Camp on the shore of the lake (2140 m) (7 km; 4 hrs; -250 m). During the sightseeing one have a chance to see national dwellings, to introduce the peculiarities of locals' life, to visit the water-mill and so on. It's perfect swimming in the lake and having a rest enjoying the scenery.

Day 16

Meeting car. Transfer to Pendjikent (40 km; 2 hrs). Lunch. Transfer Pendjikent- Samarkand (60 km; 1,5 h). Hotel. Possible sightseeing to Pendjikent to the excavations of ancient city of Alexandria The Last, founded by and named after Alexander The Great; visiting the Museum of local lore, named after famous Tadjik medieval poet Rudaki.

Day 17

Samarkand. Possible sightseeing around the city and in the suburbs of Samarkand.

Day 18

Transfer Samarkand - Tashkent (290 km; 5 hrs). Hotel (DBL BB). Optional excursions.

Day 19

Transfer to the airport. Departure from Tashkent.

Cost: please for the price offer.

Included: Meeting and transfers in Tashkent, accommodation in double tents on trek and double rooms in the hotels, all the transfers according to the program, all permits and local fees, food - 3 times a day on the active part, guide, porters, cook, interpreter, rent of necessary equipment (cooking and kitchen utensil, tents).

Not included: Visa fees, alcoholic beverages and other luxuries, personal items.
Options. Visa support, extra nights in Tashkent, Pendjikent and Samarkand, SGL accommodation, gear rental, extra excursions. Arrival and departure points might be changed to Dushanbe (recommended for less visa issues).