Drive from Dushanbe towards Khorog and the Pamirs. The more conservative attitudes of this region can be seen in the local style of dress and beards, but the hospitality is just as welcoming

Over a mountain pass to Kalai-Khumb and the scenery and people change again. Here the people are Badakhshan – not Tajiks but a number of separate tribal groups, each with their own language. Unlike their Sunni neighbors, the Badakhshanis are Ismaili, followers of the Aga Khan. Attitudes and dress are a little more liberal in Badakhshan.

Distance 350 km

Overnight in homestay or hotel

Day 2

Continue by road from Kalai-Khumb to Khorog, the capital of Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO). From Kalai-Khumb, the road joins the river Panj, which forms Tajikistan’s border with Afghanistan. This is a fascinating drive. On the Tajik side of the river, the road is asphalted and buildings have electricity and are constructed using metal and glass. On the Afghan side – only about 100 m distant – the road is a donkey track and buildings are mud and wood. Upon arrival visit Khorog bazaar, museum and the incredibly beautiful High Pamir botanical garden which was renovated by the initiative of the president. In this beautiful green city embraced by high mountains visit the national cosy museum, stroll around the City Park. Excursion continues with the visit of the Second Highest Botanical Garden in the world (2200m) Keep walking in the local bazaar for cultural diversity. The close distance between Khorog and Afghan side will impress you.

Distance 260 km. Takes 6-7 h

Overnight in homestay or hotel

After breakfast we continue our trip, not far from Khorog we will stop to observe one of the oldest hot springs in Eastern Tajikistan, called “GarmChashma”, which is popular among the people from whole Tajikistan.  Continue south from Khorog to Ishkashim. Not reaching Ishkashim we will stop to do a short walk to the ruins of ancient fortress called Kah-Kaha.

Drive to Yamchun and walk along a ridge to see the Zoroastrian “Fortress of Fire Worshippers”. Further up the hillside is the hot springs at Bibi Fatima. It is possible to take a natural steam bath in a rocky cave.  Then continue by road to Vrang, on a cliff-side pitted with caves, stands a Buddhist complex dating from 4th-7th centuries. Climb up to see the ziggurat at the top. Continue to Langar Straight ahead is peak Karl Marx (6,723 m).

Distance 220 km. Takes 6-7h

Overnight in homestay or hotel

In the morning from Lyangar over Khargush Pass (4272m) to Bulunkul and Yashilkul Lakes. Once again, the landscape and peoples change as we slowly go higher into the Pamirs. We have left behind the lush valley of the Wakhan and the Pamir tribes. The terrain here is becoming barren and rocky. This region is inhabited by nomadic Kirgiz herders. After lunch in Alichur village continue drive along the Pamir Highway (PHW) and Alichur valley to Murgab city.

Distance 260 km. Takes 7-8 h

Overnight in homestay or hotel

In the morning start drive to Khorog, several photo stops nearby an interesting Pamir high plateau lakes. After crossing Koi-Tezek pass stop on Jelondivillage, famous hot springs, people come here from all over the country, because of healing properties of its water. You will have an excellent opportunity to bath in this water. Continue drive to Khorog along Gunt valley.

Distance 320 km. Takes 7-8 h

Overnight in homestay or hotel

In the morning we will start our driving to Kalai-Khumb. On your way drive along the Panj River, enjoy the spectacular view of mountains; through the river see the way of life in Afghan side. From Khorog, the road joins the river Panj, which forms natural Tajikistan border with Afghanistan. This is a fascinating drive. On the Tajik side of the river, the road is asphalted and buildings have electricity and are constructed using metal and glass. On the Afghan side – only about 100 m distant – the road is a donkey track and buildings are built of mud and wood.

Distance 260 km. Takes 7-8 h

Overnight in homestay or hotel

Early in the morning drive back to Dushanbe. We will drive through Sagirdasht Pass (Khaburabad). Beautiful landscape and view of snow peaks and several passes. Stop in several villages to introduce with local life.

Distance 270 km. Takes 8-9 h

Overnight in hotel