The Pamir Highway from Osh to Dushanbe group tour
M41 Road Pamir Highway Tour
Tour Details
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Period
July - August -
Tour
10 days / 9 nights - Itinerary Osh – “Edelweiss Meadow” Yurt Camp – Karakul Lake – Murghab – Langar – Ishkashim – Khorog – Kalai-Khumb – Dushanbe
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Price per person
2390 USD Standard (tents)
2280 USD Comfort (yurts)
at “Edelweiss Meadow”
Pamir Highway and Wakhan Tour Highlights
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Pamirs, starting in Osh, the cultural heart of southern Kyrgyzstan. Travel along high mountain passes and alpine valleys to the serene “Edelweiss Meadow” Yurt Camp, where you’ll experience traditional nomadic hospitality amidst wildflower-filled meadows. Continue to the stunning Karakul Lake, a crystal-clear high-altitude lake framed by snow-capped peaks, before venturing to Murghab and the remote villages of Langar and Ishkashim, where ancient traditions and warm local communities offer a glimpse into life along the Silk Road.
Cross into Tajikistan’s Pamir Mountains and journey through Khorog, the regional capital, with its vibrant bazaar and riverside landscapes. Traverse the scenic valleys of Kalai-Khumb before concluding your adventure in Dushanbe, the modern capital of Tajikistan, where history, culture, and stunning architecture provide a fitting finale. This tour offers a rare combination of dramatic mountain scenery, nomadic culture, and Silk Road heritage, making it a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of Central Asia’s highlands.
Dushanbe - Osh Pamir Highway Tour
Day 1. Arrival in Osh. Osh (sightseeing)
Early arrival in Osh. Meeting at the airport, group transfer for breakfast.
Osh, known as the “southern capital”, is the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan, located at an altitude of 963 meters above sea level, on the southeastern edge of the fertile Ferghana Valley, right at the foot of the Pamir-Alai mountains.
Sightseeing in Osh: the sacred two-peaked Suleiman Mountain and the namesake local history museum, located inside a cave on the mountain. The historical and archaeological complex “Suleiman-Too” is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyrgyzstan. We will climb the stairway trail to the viewing platform at 1,092 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city of Osh. At the top, you’ll see a massive Kyrgyzstan flag and the historic Babur’s House (15th–16th centuries), the former residence of Tamerlane’s grandson. Adding to the mountain’s charm is its unique location right in the heart of the city.
A visit to the bustling shopping street lined with hundreds of small shops and street food stalls.
Сheck-in at the hotel after 14:00 PM. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 2. Transfer to the Pamirs, “Edelweiss Meadow” yurt camp.
Transfer along the Pamir Highway. The drive promises to be incredibly scenic, so grab a window seat: we’ll see red mountains and rivers, the vastness of the Alay Valley, and the dizzying serpentine road of the Taldyk Pass (3600 m), and finally, the snowy northern face of the seven-thousander, Lenin Peak (7134 m).
Upon arrival at the yurt camp, situated in the Edelweiss Meadow (3600 m) with the best views of Lenin Peak, we’ll check-in and enjoy lunch.
Afterward, we’ll take a walk to the Lukovaya (Leek) Meadow (3800 m) – a protected meadow that was once place for climbing camps but is now inhabited only by marmots and wild green onions. During the height of the swift Pamir summer, the meadow turns into a vibrant green carpet with a riot of colors, and by the end of August, it becomes a silent realm painted in ochre hues.
We’ll follow a beautiful route along the edge of the Achik-Tash Canyon, where we’ll see whimsical pillar-like rocks, a conical pyramid, the confluence of two rivers, and colorful mountains. We’ll hear the rush of water and the resonant silence of the stones.
Walking time: 2 hrs; altitude difference: +250 m, -250 m.
Overnight at “Edelweiss Meadow” yurt camp (3600 m).
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3. Hiking to the lakes of the Achik-Tash River valley and the sacred Tulpar-Kol Lake.
Travel time: 5–6 hrs; altitude difference: -260 m, +260 m.
We’ll start this morning with an easy hiking along the picturesque “fjords” of the Achik-Tash Valley, dotted with a variety of beautiful, colorful lakes. Some of them even join together, changing shapes every year. Their sparkling turquoise surface reflects the impressive peaks of the Pamirs, and herds of yaks often graze along the shores.
Next, we’ll head to the large, pristine Tulpar-Kol Lake. We’ll descend to the river and cross a bridge to the other side, where the sacred lake lies. The locals believe one shouldn’t take water, bathe, and feed cattle or fish. According to shepherds, it’s best to come to the lake with a clear mind. You can pray on the shore, dip sick parts of your body or sprinkle them with water, and you’ll definitely receive healing. We’ll walk around the lake, taking in its winding shapes from different view points, and learn about the daily life and traditions of the nomadic Kyrgyz whose yurts are nearby. Along the way, we may encounter donkeys, horses, and untouched meadows filled with delicate blooming edelweiss, vibrant buttercups, and alpine forget-me-nots.
Return to the yurt camp.
Overnight at “Edelweiss Meadow” yurt camp (3600 m).
Day 4. "Edelweiss Meadow" Yurt Camp – Kyrgyz-Tajik Border "Kyzyl-Art" – Karakul Lake – Murghab (240 km, 6-7 hrs).
After breakfast at the yurt camp, we will set out for the “Kyzyl-Art” Kyrgyz-Tajik land border.The journey includes an ascent to the Kyzyl-Art Pass (4280 m) through the Trans Alay Range.
Following border formalities, we continue to the picturesque high-altitude Karakul Lake (3914 m). Karakul, meaning “Black Lake” in Turkic, is an endorheic glacial-tectonic lake formed approximately 25 million years ago by a meteorite impact. Situated 100 meters higher than Lake Titicaca in the Andes, Karakul is surrounded by barren rocky ridges, with its western edges descending directly into the lake and the eastern ridges standing several kilometers away. The crater has a diameter of 45 km, and the lake covers an area of 380 sq. km (excluding islands) with a maximum depth of around 240 meters.
After a roadside lunch, the journey continues to Murghab via the Ak-Baital Pass (4655 m), one of the highest drivable pass in the world.
Murghab, the highest settlement in Tajikistan and all of Central Asia, is located on the Murghab Plateau. Founded in the late 19th century as the Pamir Post of the Russian Empire, Murghab is home to a bazaar and craft shops where you can purchase unique handmade items crafted by Pamiri artisans: handwoven carpets, traditional hats (kalpaks), bags, embroidered textiles, and other souvenirs.
Accommodation at a local hotel and dinner.
Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5. Murghab – Langar (250 km, 5-6 hrs). Transfer to Langar, a high-altitude village in the Wakhan Valley of the Southern Pamirs.
The journey takes you through the Wakhan Corridor, a remote and rarely visited region that is part of the historical and cultural Gorno-Badakhshan (“Mountain Badakhshan”) autonomous region. This narrow strip of land, bordered by the Pamir ranges to the north and the Hindu Kush mountains to the south, connects Afghanistan and China along the upper reaches of the Panj and Wakhan rivers. Prepare for dizzying switchbacks and steep slopes as the road winds along high terraces. On clear days, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped seven-thousanders of the Hindu Kush, the highest peaks of Afghanistan.
Arriving in Langar, situated at an altitude of 3000 meters and surrounded by towering peaks of the Pamirs and Hindu Kush, you’ll experience the unique lifestyle and traditions of the local Wakhi people. Langar is famous for its ancient petroglyphs – over 6,000 rock carvings depicting scenes of hunting, caravans, and horsemen have been discovered here. The village also features a small local museum and the Shrine of Shoh Kambari Oftob, the man who brought Ismailism to the region. This mausoleum is a sacred site where traditional mountain rituals are still performed.
The Aryan peoples inhabiting the Wakhan Valley are extraordinarily fascinating. Their culture reflects a vivid and unique blend of various religions, traditions, and philosophies, all while maintaining a deep sense of unity and harmony with the surrounding majestic mountains. The history of the Wakhan bears the footprints of Alexander the Great and his army, who propagated Greco-Buddhism here; Tibetan Buddhists, who founded massive monasteries; Arabs, who brought Islam; and Mongol conquerors, whose assistance was sought by Sunni and Ismaili factions in their struggles against each other.
Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional guesthouse.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6: Langar – Ishkashim (140 km, 4-5 hrs).
Transfer to the village of Ishkashim, with a stop at Jamg along the way. Sightseeing in Jamg: visit the tomb and reconstructed house-museum of the renowned scholar, inventor, poet, and musician Sufi Mubarak Kadam. You’ll also see a stone with a hole that was used as a sundial over 700 years ago.
We will also stop at the Bibi Fatima hot springs, famous for their legendary healing properties. The name of the springs is associated with Fatima, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad. The water, which maintains a constant temperature of +40°C throughout the year, contains radon and other minerals, giving it unique therapeutic qualities. The springs emerge from the rock in two places, referred to by locals as “Fatima’s sleeves.” There is a small infrastructure around the springs, including a pool, changing rooms, and relaxation areas. You can also descend a staircase to enjoy a refreshing shower under a small natural waterfall.
Lunch will be provided as boxed meals en route.
Arrival in Ishkashim.
Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional guesthouse.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7. Ishkashim – Khorog (120 km, 2 hrs).
Transfer to Khorog, the administrative center of Gorno-Badakhshan, a charming green town surrounded by towering poplar trees and traditional Pamiri houses on its outskirts. Nestled in a deep gorge at 2200 meters above sea level, near the confluence of the Gunt and Panj Rivers, Khorog is protected from strong winds and harsh winters, enjoying warm, dry summers. The town is famous for its lush gardens filled with apple, apricot, and mulberry trees.
Upon arrival in Khorog, check-in at the hotel. Sightseeing in Khorog: visit the Pamir Botanical Garden, the second highest botanical garden in the world (after Nepal’s), featuring a unique collection of flora from across the globe. The garden is located on river terraces above the eastern part of Khorog at an altitude of 2320 meters, offering stunning views. Next, explore the History and Ethnography Museum, showcasing fascinating exhibits on the region’s history, art, and crafts. A standout artifact is the first piano brought to the Pamirs, carried by ten soldiers on foot from Osh in 1914 for the daughter of a local ruler. The soldiers followed much the same route we have traveled over the past few days, but without the convenience of modern transport.
Finally, stop by the local bazar, where you can purchase fresh produce, fruits, and local specialties.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8. Khorog – Kalai-Khumb (265 km, 6-7 hrs).
Transfer to the village of Kalai-Khumb with a stop at the ancient site of Karon, located at an altitude of around 2000 meters in the Darvaz District of Gorno-Badakhshan, Tajikistan. This archaeological treasure is an ancient monument of architecture and culture, with excavations that began in 2013.
Lunch en route. Arrival in Kalai-Khumb, a small town near the Afghan border, situated at the confluence of the Khumbob and Panj Rivers. This settlement, located at an altitude of 1200 meters, has a population of around 2,000 people. Its name translates from Tajik as “Fortress at the Bottom of a Jug.” Kalaikhumb was founded in the 15th century as a fortress along the Khumbob River and served as the capital of the independent Tajik principality of Darvaz (meaning “gateway”) until the mid-19th century.
The Darvaz District is known for its fertile land and agricultural production. Locally grown crops include grains, melons (watermelons and cantaloupes), vegetables, and fruits. In Kalaikhumb, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the region’s finest pomegranates, figs, persimmons, pistachios, and almonds, freshly harvested from the surrounding areas.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9. Kalaikhumb – Dushanbe (350 km, 7-8 hrs)
Transfer to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, with stops at the Mausoleum of Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani and Hulbuk Fortress along the way.
Lunch in the city of Kulob.
Arrival in Dushanbe, a vibrant and sunny city with a well-developed infrastructure, known for its numerous streets, avenues, and squares named after poets and writers. The name “Dushanbe” translates from Tajik as “Monday,” as the city grew around a crossroads where a major market was held on Mondays.
Sightseeing in Dushanbe: National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, home to a unique collection of ancient artifacts, including the centerpiece, the colossal statue “Buddha in Nirvana,” measuring 12.9 meters in length and weighing 5.5 tons (6th–8th centuries); Independence Square and Rudaki Avenue; Monument to Ismail Samani, the founder of the Samanid dynasty.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 10. Departure from Dushanbe.
Transfer to the airport. The end of the program.
breakfast
Tour Information
The cost of the tour includes:
- Meeting and seeing off at the airport, group transfers airport – hotel – airport for flights coinciding with the tour start/end dates.
- Comfortable transport during the entire tour, including transfers from / to airport.
- Accommodation in hotel on twin/double sharing basis with breakfast.
- Accommodation in “Edelweiss Meadow” yurt camp:
► “Standard” option – twin accommodation in comfortable, heated camping tents with floors and beds.
► “Comfort ” option – accommodation in a comfortable, heated private yurt for 1–3 people.
- Accommodation at the guesthouses en route – 3-4 pax in a room according to the program (single accommodation is not guaranteed, facilities are outside the house).
- Meals: full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Sightseeing tours according to the program.
- Services of English-speaking accompanying guide.
- Entrance fees at museums and monuments according to the program.
- GBAO border permit (Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous region).
- Processing of necessary documents for visiting the Lenin Peak area, including ecological fee.
- Services of an English-speaking mountain guide during the visit to the Lenin Peak area (Days 2–3).
- Equipment rental during the visit to the Lenin Peak area (Days 2–3).
- Telescopic trekking poles.
- Rain poncho.
- Group first aid kit.
- Infrastructure of “Edelweiss Meadow” yurt camp (3600 m):
- Traditional Kyrgyz yurts with heating for meals and leisure activities
- Washbasins and toilets.
- Shower cabins.
- Medical point and consultations with the on-duty doctor.
- Luggage storage.
- 220V; 50Hz electricity.
- Mineral water for each day of the tour.
- Memorable souvenirs.
The cost of the tour doesn’t include:
- International flights.
- Medical insurance.
- Porters at the hotels and airpots.
- Tips and gratitudes.
- Visa fee (if required).
Pricing per person
| Accommodation Type | Camp / Facility | Price per Person | Single Supplement* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (tents) | “Edelweiss Meadow” camp | 2,280 USD | +110 USD |
| Comfort (yurts) | “Edelweiss Meadow” camp | 2,390 USD | +170 USD |
Notes:
The tour cost includes the agency’s commission. The single supplement is listed as a net price.
This tour is guaranteed and will operate regardless of the final number of participants in the group.
Single accommodation in guesthouses in the Pamirs is not guaranteed and will be provided only if available.
Accommodation
| Location | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| Osh | Sunrise Osh Hotel 3* or similar |
| “Edelweiss Meadow” Yurt Camp | Standard Option: spacious camping tents for 1–2 people with electricity, heating, beds, linens, bedside lamps, and chairs. Comfort Option: traditional Kyrgyz yurt for 1–3 people with ensuite bathroom, heating, electricity, handmade furniture, beds with fresh linens, kettle, tea set, and sweets. |
| Murghab | Hotel “Pamir” 1* or similar |
| Langar | Guesthouse – 3–4 people per room |
| Ishkashim | Guesthouse – 3–4 people per room |
| Khorog | Lal 3* / Dehli Darbor 3* or similar |
| Kalai-Khumb | Karon Palas 4* or similar |
| Dushanbe | The Rumi Hotel & Residences 4*+ or similar |
Transportation
| Group Size | Vehicle Type |
|---|---|
| 1–15 pax | Mercedes-Benz Sprinter |
Pamir Group Tour map
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If you would like to customize your tour please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to organize a custom tour or to provide a modified itinerary based on one of the tours provided by the tour operators.
Tajikistan travel information
Money & costs
Safety
Entry & exit
Best time to go
Health
Money & costs
Money & costs
Tajikistan operates on the somoni (TJS) as its official currency, although dollars are accepted in some locations. However, the somoni is the primary currency for day-to-day transactions.
Cash withdrawals from ATMs can pose challenges, so it’s recommended to carry some cash to avoid any financial inconveniences. ATMs are accessible in cities such as Dushanbe, Panjakent, Khujand, Khorog, Isfara, Istaravshan, Kurgan-Tube, and even in smaller towns, excluding Murghab.
Eskhata Bank in Dushanbe is considered a reliable option for obtaining US dollars, with a generous withdrawal limit in somoni. However, be aware that ATMs may be less available on weekends. Finding an ATM that accepts Mastercard can be a bit tricky.
Both US dollars and euros are widely acknowledged across Tajikistan. In rural areas lacking formal currency exchange services, people may prefer dollars over euros. It’s essential to note that engaging in currency exchange on the black market is illegal.
Safety
Safety
While the overall security situation is generally stable and Dushanbe is considered relatively safe, occasional incidents of robbery and petty crimes may occur. Individuals with financial resources, including foreigners, could be potential targets. Here are some further recommendations for Tajikistan:
- Always carry a copy of the photo page of your passport, as authorities may request identification.
- Exercise caution by avoiding demonstrations or large gatherings, and maintain vigilance in public spaces.
- For your safety, do not leave your drinks unattended, decline beverages from strangers, and be mindful of your alcohol consumption.
- If you experience being followed or harassed at the airport, promptly report the incident to your tour agent or the consulate office at the airport.
- Show respect for local traditions, customs, laws, and religions at all times.
- Smoking is prohibited while walking on the streets.
- The possession and use of drugs are strictly illegal.
- Women traveling alone in Tajikistan may encounter unwanted attention, harassment, or gender-related difficulties.
- Photographing anything related to the military or security services may lead to complications with local authorities.
- Same-sex sexual relationships are not illegal according to Tajikistan’s legislation. However, conservative local views and levels of tolerance may vary, especially outside major cities.
- Transportation in Tajikistan often involves poorly maintained vehicles, and driving standards are basic. Gas stations outside cities are rare, and emergency services may not be readily available. Ensure you have all necessary supplies for your trip and anticipate potential delays.
- Roads outside major cities are in poor condition and may only be accessible to four-wheel-drive vehicles. Conditions are particularly hazardous in spring due to the risk of avalanches and landslides.
- Tajikistan commonly experiences shortages of energy and water, along with frequent power outages, especially during winter and spring, mostly outside Dushanbe.
- Avoid traveling to the border area with Afghanistan due to the unstable security situation.
- Despite a ceasefire agreement, the security situation remains unstable following military clashes in the Sughd region (Northern Tajikistan), bordering Kyrgyzstan, in September 2022. Khujand is still safe to visit.
- Tajikistan is prone to earthquakes, avalanches, landslides, and floods.
Entry & exit
Entry & exit
Starting from 2022, visitors from 52 countries can enjoy visa-free travel to Tajikistan. For comprehensive visa information, refer to this link. It is crucial to leave Tajikistan before your visa or visa-free entry expires to avoid penalties and the need for an exit visa.
For those planning to explore the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO), obtaining permission is mandatory. Keep in mind that Tajikistan’s borders might close unexpectedly. Declare large amounts of imported funds upon arrival, and when departing, present the customs declaration form.
Best time to go
Best time to go
The ideal time for exploring Tajikistan is during the spring and autumn months, specifically in April, May, June, September, and October. Summers in Tajikistan are characterized by dry and intense heat, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C in the lowlands. Winters can be extremely cold, reaching -20°C in mountainous areas, and heavy snowfall in the western region may disrupt winter routes and close high-altitude mountain passes.
September stands out as perhaps the most favorable time for a journey to Tajikistan, as the heat subsides on the plains, and nearly all but the highest mountain passes remain accessible. Markets come alive with an abundance of delicious fresh produce, and the landscape transforms into a stunning golden autumn. The best time to visit Pamir is in August.
Health
Health
Before embarking on your journey, verify that your chosen destination can offer the required medical assistance you might need. Make sure you possess suitable travel insurance covering both on-site treatment and unexpected medical evacuation. If directed to a medical facility for treatment, promptly contact your insurance provider.
Tajikistan possesses limited medical facilities and faces shortages of essential medications. Medical establishments outside Dushanbe tend to be basic, with some areas having virtually no medical infrastructure.
Certain medications containing codeine are strictly prohibited in Tajikistan. If you intend to bring medications, ensure their legality and acquaint yourself with relevant regulations. Declare all medications and other restricted items upon your arrival.
Ticks are prevalent in forests and rural areas from spring to autumn. The improper disposal of uranium and pesticides in the northern Sughd region poses potential health hazards. It is advisable to get vaccinated at least against Hepatitis A, B and Tetanus at a minimum before your trip.