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Embarking on an overland journey through Tajikistan with Oasis Overland promises an adventure into one of Central Asia's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. This isn't your typical tourist trip; it's an expedition designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of the Pamir Mountains, the rich cultural heritage of the Silk Road, and the genuine hospitality of the Tajik people. Expect to traverse rugged terrains, witness stunning alpine vistas, and experience a style of travel that prioritizes authentic encounters and a spirit of communal exploration. With Oasis Overland, you'll be venturing beyond the well-trodden paths, into the heart of a region where adventure and discovery go hand in hand.
Osh to Dushanbe via the Pamir Highway
From Osh, the next 8 days or so are spent on a spectacular (and slow at times) drive through the mountains, following one of the world’s most famous and scenic roads, the Pamir Highway. We start by heading south into the foothills and climb to our next bush camp near Sary Moghul. We should have time for some hikes here or a drive up to see some beautiful mountain lakes.
We ascend further and cross into Tajikistan and on to Karakul Lake. The heat around Osh is in the distant past now, and these are a cold and remote few days with the air noticeably thinner. The highest point of the Pamir Highway comes next, as we cross the Akbaital Pass at 4,655m and descend to Murghab, an important Soviet military station in years gone by but now mainly home to Kyrgyz inhabitants. There is a market here and yak-wool handicrafts are available.
Our journey descends gradually now through remote and beautiful scenery towards Khorog, the capital of the mountainous Badakshan region. We can visit the bazaar and botanical gardens here. We’ll follow the Panj River, with the Afghanistan border just a few hundred metres away towards Kalai Khumb. There are great mountain views from the Karon archaeological site here. We then cross the Shurobod Pass to Kulob and finally descend through lowland hills and pastures past the Nurek Dam to Dushanbe.
Dushanbe
Dushanbe is Tajikistan’s largest city, and aptly its name means “Money” in Tajik language. It is a big showy city, in stark contrast to the East. You’ll pass a lovely day strolling through parks, admiring the fountains and the wide boulevards punctuated with grand buildings. Visit “Flag Pole Park” or the bazaar, or make the most of being in a city with restaurants specialising in various different cuisines.
Through the Fann Mountains to Samarkand
Leaving Dushanbe behind, we drive north into Tajikistan’s other great mountain range, the Fann Mountains. Peaks of over 5000m tower above as we head to Iskanderkul Lake at 2200m. It is said to be the resting place of Alexander the Greats horse, Bucephalus. The glacial lake is a stunning spot for a hike and we aim to visit Tajikistan’s highest waterfall (40 mtrs). We’ll have another couple of days passing through the mountains, stopping for hikes, before we cross into Uzbekistan and descend out of the mountains to Samarkand.
Experience Tajikistan on our 31 day overland trip from Bishkek to Ashgabat along the Silk Road:
BISHKEK TO ASHGABAT (31 DAYS) SILK ROAD HIGHLIGHTS
Follow one of the world's most well renowned highways; the Silk Road. This expedition will take you through some of the oldest cities in the world, discover the ancient trading routes through the 'Stan's' including a stop in the oldest bazaar in Central Asia - Osh, and the futuristic capital, Ashgabat, which holds the Guinness world record for the most-white marble on Earth. We will also stop off in splendored Old Registan in Uzbekistan and back to nature in Tajikistan where you can hike in the Fann Mountains and visit the tallest waterfall in the country.
Or on our epic 26 week overland expedition from Istanbul to Singapore!:
ISTANBUL TO SINGAPORE (26 WEEKS) TRANS ASIA
Set off on an extraordinary overland journey through 16 countries, starting in the lively city of Istanbul, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. From this vibrant hub, follow the ancient Silk Road, a historic trade route that meanders through rich cultures and captivating landscapes, guiding you deep into the heart of China. Along this iconic route, immerse yourself in the diverse customs and traditions of each region, uncovering the often-turbulent histories that have shaped them.