Alauddin lakes
Alauddin lakes
Alauddin Lakes, also known as Chapdara, positioned at an altitude of 2800 meters, stand out as some of the most stunning lakes in the Fann Mountains. A part of the Pasrud River system, these lakes captivate the observer with their perennially blue or turquoise appearance when viewed from the elevated vantage points. A robust five-kilometer natural underground stone filter ensures the pristine quality of the lake waters.
Traversing along the western shoreline of the Big Alauddin Lake, the trail leads to a green meadow in the southwest corner, providing a convenient spot for setting up tents. On the opposite side, a stone-curled peninsula gracefully extends into the lake. Originating from the Big Lake, a river diverges, with one branch flowing into the Middle Lake and the other vanishing into moraine accumulations before cascading down from the lush slope above the Lower Lake.
Characterized by a stone barrier, the sources of all Alauddin Lakes feature a cascading flow, maintaining consistent lake levels. The central focal point of the entire aquatic complex is the prominent Big Alauddin Lake, accompanied by the elongated and uniquely structured eastern Lake to its east, nourished by a stream originating from Chapdara.
These cold lakes boast a lack of fish, creating an ideal sanctuary for bird enthusiasts amidst the mountainous surroundings. Alauddin Lakes serve as the starting point for mountaineers embarking on challenging ascents to peaks like Chapdara (5050 m), Zamok (5070 m), Energia (5120 m), Chimtarga (5489 m), and more. A small ancient moraine, shrouded in forest, graces the landscape above the Big Alauddin Lake.
Hiking in Alauddin lakes
The “Vertical-Alauddin” mountaineering camp is situated at an altitude of 2635 meters only 1,5 kilometers away from the first lake of the chain. This means that there is a road leading almost to the Alauddin lakes. This makes it an ideal destination for those with limited time but a desire to immerse themselves in the splendor of the Fanns or with some health conditions preventing more exhausting hiking or trekking. Embarking on the trek from there, after a few kilometers of gentle ascent past several smaller lakes, you will arrive at the magnificent Alauddin Lake. Several teahouses on the northern shore offer food and beverages during the high season. For the ones hoping for more challenge, there are several hiking routes around the lakes leading also to other Fann mountain lakes.
Optimal camping spots lie on the green (almost) flat area on the southwest shore. Pitch your tent for the night and return to “Vertical-Alauddin” the following day or continue towards Kulikalon lakes over one of the two passes. In the camp, tourists and climbers can familiarize themselves with all the routes available in the Fann Mountains. The camp operates during the summer, and it is advisable to confirm the details if you wish to avail of their services.
The prime period for trekking in the Fann Mountains falls during the Tajik summer, spanning from July to September, but the weather in Tajikistan can be very hot in July. August is the best time, but it’s the most popular, and if you value privacy, perhaps it’s not the best choice for you. In June there are not many people in the Fann Mountains, everything is in bloom beautifully, but the weather is less stable.
Tours including Alauddin lakes
Travel to Alauddin Lakes
You can reach Alauddin lakes camp directly from Dushanbe, Panjakent, Khujand or Samarkand by car. From Dushanbe it is about a 120 km drive to the Vertical Alauddin camp, traversing a mountainous road with switchbacks. The other route to reach the lakes is by trekking from the Kulikalon lakes over the Alauddin pass reaching almost 3,8 kilometers.
Sights & destinations near Alauddin Lakes
Page updated 18.10.2024
