Across The Roof Of The World
About this tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the legendary Pamir Highway, one of the world’s last great adventures. Travel from Dushanbe to Osh through breathtaking mountains, remote villages, and historic Silk Road sites, discovering the beauty of Central Asia. This all-inclusive tour offers cultural encounters, access to remote regions, and a seamless experience with professional drivers, English-speaking guides, and comfortable transport, with personalized service and attention to details.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Dushanbe, Tajikistan
- Arrival in Dushanbe early in the morning. - Rest and Relaxation at the hotel to recover from the journey. - Sightseeing Tour of the capital, Dushanbe, which includes: -Antique Museum of Dushanbe, Local Bazar, Cathedral Mosque, Teahouse Navruz Palace, Hissar fortress, Flag Pole Park and Main Square. - Accommodation: Hotel Taj
Day 2: Dushanbe, Tajikistan to Kalaikhum, Tajikistan
- Departure from Dushanbe: - The journey begins toward the majestic Pamir Range, tracing the scenic Panj River through some of Tajikistan’s most breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, travelers visit the ancient 9th-century Hulbuk Fortress and the Hulbuk Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The road continues with sweeping mountain vistas and striking views of traditional Afghan villages along the opposite riverbank. Throughout the journey, you’ll encounter welcoming local communities whose simple, time-honored lifestyle is complemented by their renowned hospitality. -Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 3: Kalaikhum, Tajikistan to Khorog, Tajikistan
Panoramic drive from Kalai Khumb to Khorog (280 km, approx. 7 hours), following one of the most scenic sections of the Pamir Highway. - The route winds along the Panj River, revealing stunning mountain landscapes and captivating views of traditional Afghan villages across the river. - Evening stroll in Khorog Park, a peaceful green oasis and a favorite gathering place for locals. - Overnight stay in Khorog at the comfortable Lal Hotel.
Day 4
- After breakfast, we depart Khorog and visit the famous Garmchashma Hot Spring, surrounded by striking mountain scenery. The journey continues to Ishkashim, a charming town marking the entrance to the legendary Wakhan Corridor, once a strategic crossroads during the 19th-century Great Game. - En route, we take a short walk to the impressive ruins of Kakh-Kakha Fortress (4th century AD), built during the Kushan era. Driving along the northern riverbank, travelers enjoy sweeping views of the Pamir Mountains. As we enter the Wakhan Corridor, breathtaking panoramas unfold—the Pamirs to the left and the Hindu Kush to the right, with the majestic Karl Marx Peak (6,723 m) rising ahead. - Next, we visit Vrang Stupa in Vrang village, Ishkashim. This 4th–7th century five-level stone stupa overlooks the Panj River and is part of an ancient Buddhist complex with walls, towers, and monks’ caves. Locals say the top stone bears the Buddha’s footprint, offering a glimpse into the Pamirs’ rich spiritual history. - Our journey continues to Yamchun, where we ascend to the spectacular Yamchun Fortress, also known as the Fortress of the Fire Worshipers, one of the region’s most iconic landmarks. Afterward, we visit the Bibi Fotima Hot Spring, where travelers can relax and enjoy the therapeutic waters. We spend the night at a nearby hotel, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Wakhan Corridor. - Accommodation: Local guesthouse at Bibi Fotima Hot Spring
Day 5
- We begin with a visit to Yamg Village, home to a unique 19th-century solar calendar created by the local Sufi scholar Muboraki Vakhoni, as well as his traditional house, now preserved as a small museum. - We continue with a visit to the ancient petroglyphs, where over 600 rock carvings created by the region’s early inhabitants tell fascinating stories of the past. - Our journey continues through the Khargush Pass (4,344 m), the primary source of the Amu Darya River, offering stunning views of high-altitude landscapes and pristine lakes along the way. - Lake Bulunkul & Yashil-Kul: From the pass, a breathtaking panorama of Lake Bulunkul unfolds. Nearby, the Yashil-Kul (the entrance fee is not included) and Bulunkul Lakes (the “Blue Lakes”), situated at 3,700 m above sea level in the Murghab region, are home to a variety of fish species and are a true natural wonder. - Yaks & Local Wildlife: Travelers will also encounter yaks, remarkable domestic animals with traits of both cows and sheep. Traditionally used as pack animals, yaks provide milk, meat, and other essential products, offering a glimpse into local highland life. - Excursions & Leisure: Explore the lakes, enjoy photography, and take in the serene high-altitude landscapes. - Accommodation: Local guesthouse.
Day 6
- We drive to Murghab, stopping along the way for a photoshoot at Tezkul (Salty Lake) and Sasilkul (Stinky Lake), where the unique landscapes and striking colors promise breathtaking views. - Passing through Alichur Village, we take a short tour of the village and enjoy lunch with local flavors. - Upon arrival in Murghab, we go for a walk through town, visiting the local mosque and the market, a charming spot built mostly from old shipping containers. - Accommodation: Pamir Hotel
Day 7
- We drive to Karakul Lake (Black Lake), heading toward the Tajik–Kyrgyz border and crossing the legendary Khushang Pass (formerly Ak-Baital Pass) at 4,655 meters — one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world and the highest in the former Soviet region. Along the way, we enjoy views of dramatic mountain peaks and the border with China. - Upon arrival at Karakul, we take a short walk to the western shore and climb a nearby hill for panoramic views over the lake. In clear weather, the magnificent Abuali Ibni Sino Peak (7,134 m) is visible in the distance. - Later, we stroll through Karakul Village and along the lakeshore, taking in the beautiful landscape and fresh mountain air. - Accommodation: Erkin Guesthouse.
Day 8
- Drive toward the Tajik–Kyrgyz border, continuing over Kyzyl-Art Pass (4,280 meters), marking the official crossing into Kyrgyzstan. On the Kyrgyz side, the journey leads through Sary-Tash village, where vast alpine plains open up beneath the dramatic Pamir-Alay mountain range, offering unforgettable panoramic views. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Sary-Tash village.
Day 9
- En route to Osh, we pass the scenic Taldyk Pass (3,615 meters), offering beautiful mountain views and high-altitude landscapes. - In Osh, visit the stunning Sulaiman-Too Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Central Asia’s most important pilgrimage places. Explore ancient sacred caves, the mountain cave museum, panoramic viewpoints over Osh city, and learn about centuries-old legends, history, and spiritual traditions connected to this unique landmark.
What's included
- A bottle of water for everyday.
- The entrance fee to Yashilkul Lake is not included. Visitors are responsible for paying the fees for cars, guides, and any other applicable charges. For a group of four people, the cost per person is approximately $20 USD. - Alcohol - Souvenirs - Tips
Languages spoken
What to know
*This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. * This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems. * Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions. * The concept of non-vegetarian food is not common in Tajikistan. Please inform me in advance so that I can make the necessary meal arrangements accordingly. *If you would like to customize the tour, it can be tailored to your preferences. Please feel free to contact me, and I will be happy to help create the tour of your dreams.
Route & locations
Dushanbe, Tajikistan