Traverse the Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan
Courtesy of Untamed Borders
The Pamir Mountains, the least visited of all the Greater Ranges on the Asian continent, is home to the 48-mile-long Fedchenko Glacier, the world’s largest glacier outside the Polar regions, as well as three major mountains, all with peaks higher than 23,000 feet. Travelers will spend 16 days traversing through the heart of the mountain range, staying in the homes of the Pamiri locals, camping near centuries-old caravanserais and exploring the hidden beauty of the Alpine lakes along the way. The first few days will be spent taking in the sights on four-wheel drives, journeying along the Pamir Highway and crossing rickety suspension bridges that hang over breathtaking gorges. Travelers will also get a chance to cross the thrilling 14,012 feet Koitezek Pass before arriving in Bulunkul, the coldest inhabited place in Central Asia with a lowest recorded temperature of -81 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, after four days on the road, travelers will begin the hiking portion of their trip, trekking from Bulunku to Bardara, one of the most remote settlements in the Pamirs. At Bardara, travelers will be able to spend a few days resting and exploring village life in the Pamirs before driving back to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan.
This small 16-day trekking trip starts at $2,750 per person and includes accommodation, all meals except those in Khorog and Dushanbe, transportation and an experienced international trekking guide. The trip is designed to be physically engaging and may be challenging for some travelers. It is recommended that travelers have some prior experience walking with a 20-30 lb day pack for up to 8 hours over 5 or more days over uneven and varied terrain.