Journey into Tajikistan's culture & history
Visit Tajikistan and follow the path of the remarkable Sogdian people, the skilled merchants of the Great Silk Road. Start your journey in the capital of Tajikistan and visit the ancient city of Hisor. Explore the well-preserved ruins of Hisor and imagine the bustling marketplaces that once filled its streets. Continue your journey to Yaghnob Valley, whose residents were able to preserve the Yaghnobi language, considered closest to the ancient Sogdian language. Stay overnight in the remotest village, where once the Sogdians found salvation from the Arab conquerors. Discover the beautiful nature of the present-day Sogd region by visiting the marvellous Iskandarkul Lake and Seven Lakes, the hospitable Artuch village and the historical gems of Tajikistan: Khujand and Istaravshan.
Services
Included:
- 12 nights' accommodation in hotels/guest houses (twin basis), homestays (no claim for single rooms, maybe several beds or mattresses in one room)
- 12 x breakfast, 6 x lunch, 3 x picnic lunch, 7 x dinner
- Private transfers in air-conditioned 4WD jeep (max 3 people)
- Airport transfer on first & last days
- English-speaking guide for the entire trip
- 2 litres still water per person per day
- Entrance fees to museums & historical sites: National Museum of Antiques; Kokhi Navruz; Hisor Fortress and Madrasa; Iskandarkul Lake; Istaravshan historical places; Historical Museum of Sughd; Gurminj Musical Instruments Museum
- Folk music instrument performance
Excluded:
- Soft & alcoholic drinks
- Payment for photo cameras & video in museums & historical sites
- Travel insurance
- Visa fee to Tajikistan & registration (for visa-free countries)
- International flights
Optional:
- Single room supplement in Dushanbe only: USD 195 per person
Itinerary at a Glance
Dushanbe - Hisor
Welcome to Tajikistan!
Margeb
Silk Road tales
Margeb - Piskon
Life in Piskon
Piskon - Iskandarkul Lake
Turquoise lakes
Sarytag
Healing springs & mountain charm
Artuch Village
Artuch alpine adventure
Artuch Base Camp - Chukurak Lake
Chukurak Lake hike
Nofin - Marguzor Lakes
Seven Lakes bliss
Istaravshan
Silk Road stories
Khujand
Explore the Silk Road
Dushanbe
Dushanbe: journey's end
Dushanbe
Goodbye!
Detailed Itinerary
Dushanbe - Hisor
Day 1: Welcome to Tajikistan!
On arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by a local guide and transferred to your hotel in vibrant Dushanbe, capital of Tajikistan. Discover the city's rich history and culture as you visit key landmarks, such as the National Museum of Antiquities and national flagpole (the second-highest in the world), then stroll through Rudaki Park and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere.
Visit the iconic Navruz Palace with its breathtaking architectural design and halls showcasing excellent local craftsmanship. Then, venture to the ancient Hisor Fortress and Madrasa, located just outside Dushanbe. Marvel at the well-preserved walls and towers that stand as a testament to the region's storied past, and learn about the fortress's significance and role in shaping Tajikistan's history. Take in the panoramic views before returning to Dushanbe, where you'll end the day with a taste of traditional Tajik cuisine. Relax and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead in the majestic Fann Mountains.
Margeb
Day 2: Silk Road tales
Today we visit the Yaghnob Valley, home to the descendants of the ancient Silk Road people, the Sogdians. After breakfast, we journey through rugged terrain, greeted by breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. The Yaghnob Valley offers a unique glimpse into the ancient traditions and way of life preserved by these resilient communities. You'll even get the chance to hear a language spoken almost 2,500 years ago during the time of Alexander the Great.
We stop at the charming village of Margeb, nestled next to the Zarafshan mountains. Stroll through lush valleys, interact with friendly locals and observe the simplicity of everyday life. Take a short, guided hike to a view point over the village. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a hearty traditional dinner accompanied with music by a local artist.
Margeb - Piskon
Day 3: Life in Piskon
Today we'll visit Piskon village, a hidden gem in Yaghnob Valley inhabited by just seven families. Here, electricity is generated by a local hydroelectric power source. Our route involves a two-hour off-road drive and a one-hour hike, granting a true taste of village life.
Wander scenic trails surrounded by majestic peaks and lush greenery, soaking in panoramic valley views and pristine nature.
Arriving in Piskon, we'll spend the night immersed in local culture, with a welcoming village family. Prepare for a memorable evening under the starlit sky, surrounded by the beauty of Piskon village.
Piskon - Iskandarkul Lake
Day 4: Turquoise lakes
After breakfast with your host family, we'll visit Iskandarkul Lake, steeped in history and legend. This pristine mountain lake's story stretches back centuries and is linked to ancient civilisations and conquerors. Its name, possibly from Alexander the Great, adds mystique. When you arrive, it's impossible not to marvel at its turquoise waters and towering peaks. Here, you can dip in for a swim or hop on a boat ride.
After a lakeside lunch, explore the hidden Fann Niagara waterfall and scenic trails to Snake Lake. As the sun sets, admire the sky's hues. Enjoy dinner by the lake before retreating to your camp under the stars for the night.
Sarytag
Day 5: Healing springs & mountain charm
After a delicious breakfast, we will set off for Sarytag village. The journey offers stunning mountain pass views. Along the way, pause at Panjchashma, five springs that are believed to have healing properties.
Warm local hospitality awaits you in Sarytag. Settle into your cosy accommodation and explore the village, soaking in the scenic beauty.
An evening of tranquillity awaits, with dinner and homestay comforts.
Artuch Village
Day 6: Artuch alpine adventure
Today, head on a picturesque journey to Artuch village, a just seven kilometres from the Artuch alpine camp, steeped in Soviet-era mountain lore. This camp was once a well-known gathering place for mountain enthusiasts across the Soviet Union.
On arrival, enjoy a late lunch and a leisurely village stroll, surrounded by mountain peaks. Finish the day with a delicious traditional dinner cooked by the owner of your guest house.
Artuch Base Camp - Chukurak Lake
Day 7: Chukurak Lake hike
Get ready for an adventure-packed day! After breakfast at your guest house, we're off to hike the stunning Chukurak Lake. Translating as ‘deep lake’ and nestled in the western Govkhona mountains at an elevation of 2,455 metres, this gem is a neighbour to the Ziyorat river.
After the hike, which takes around five hours, enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views. Later, immerse yourself in local culture with traditional music performances, lively dances and even a lesson on a percussion instrument, the Tajik doira.
Nofin - Marguzor Lakes
Day 8: Seven Lakes bliss
Today's adventure takes us from Artuch village to the famous Seven Lakes, also known as Marguzor Lakes. Legend has it that these lakes formed from the tears of seven grieving daughters who lost their father in the valley.
Arriving at Nofin Lake, prepare to be amazed by its beauty. Each lake boasts unique charm and colour, framed by majestic peaks. A short hike and drive leads to Hazorchashma (lake seven), with a delightful lunch en route, showcasing your host, Jumaboi's, culinary skills and homemade jams.
Witness the lakes shift from deep blues to emerald greens in the sunlight. Immerse yourself in this untouched paradise before our journey continues through the majestic Fann Mountains.
In the evening, relax and enjoy a delicious dinner at your guest house.
Istaravshan
Day 9: Silk Road stories
From Marguzor Lakes, after breakfast we venture to Istaravshan, an ancient Silk Road city with a rich history. Explore its well-preserved wonders, like the Fortress Mug, Kok Gumbaz mosque and Hazrat-i-Shah Mosque. Stroll through bustling bazaars for local treasures.
As the day ends, the evening is yours to relax in Istaravshan and soak in the cultural richness of Tajikistan's past.
Khujand
Day 10: Explore the Silk Road
This morning, we will travel to Khujand, northern Tajikistan's cultural gem and a Silk Road hub. Explore Khujand's heritage, visiting landmarks like Sheikh Muslihiddin's Mausoleum and the Sughd Historical Museum.
Immerse yourself in Panjshanbe Bazaar's lively ambiance and make sure to taste local delights. Marvel at Kamoli Khujandi Square's grandeur and take a cable car ride for incredible panoramic views to finish the day.
The evening is free for you to explore local restaurants or relax in your hotel.
Dushanbe
Day 11: Dushanbe: journey's end
Bid Khujand goodbye and return to lively Dushanbe. Enjoy scenic drives through picturesque Tajik landscapes on the journey back to the capital.
We'll have a picnic lunch in Shahristan, where you can breathe in the fresh air before arriving in Dushanbe. Explore the city's remaining attractions, shop at Mehrgon bazaar and delve into Tajik folk music at Gurminj Musical Instruments Museum.
They evening is yours to relax and reflect on your trip or indulge in a final Tajik dinner.
Dushanbe
Day 12: Goodbye!
It's time to bid farewell to Tajikistan! Your driver will pick you up from your hotel after breakfast and take you to the airport for your flight home.
