TOUR
The Fann Mountains: The Ultimate 8-Day Trek
An eight-day journey through the heart of Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains, from turquoise alpine lakes and high mountain passes to remote villages and the legendary Iskanderkul.
About This Tour
This journey brings together some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Fann Mountains in one complete trekking route.
Starting in Dushanbe, we travel into the mountains and continue on foot through the Kulikalon Lakes, cross the 3,860-metre Alauddin Pass, reach the glacial Mutnye Lakes and finish among the landscapes and villages surrounding Iskanderkul.
Three nights are spent camping in the mountains, supported by a mountain guide, cook and pack animals, while village homestays in Artuch and Saratog offer a closer look at everyday life in rural Tajikistan.
The route is designed for travellers who want a genuine mountain expedition without carrying heavy group equipment. Pack animals transport the main luggage between camps, allowing you to trek with a lighter daypack.
It is a physically demanding journey, but one that rewards every climb with turquoise lakes, dramatic rock walls and some of the finest high-altitude scenery in Central Asia.
Tour Programme
1Arrival in Dushanbe
Arrival and introduction to Tajikistan. Arrive in Dushanbe and begin the journey with an introduction to the capital. Visit the Ismoil Somoni Monument, Rudaki Park and Kokhi Navruz. In the evening, meet your guide for a trip briefing and prepare for the mountains ahead.
2Into the Fann Mountains
Dushanbe → Artuch. Leave the capital behind and travel through mountain landscapes towards Artuch, one of the gateways to the Fann Mountains. Settle into a local guesthouse and spend the afternoon exploring the village and experiencing the slower rhythm of rural Tajikistan.
3Kulikalon Lakes
Artuch → Kulikalon Lakes → Bibijanat Lake. Trekking: approx. 4 hours Altitude: approx. 2,800 m Our pack animals take the main luggage while we begin the trek with light daypacks. The trail climbs towards the Kulikalon basin, a spectacular plateau surrounded by towering peaks. By afternoon we reach Bibijanat Lake and establish our first mountain camp beside the water.
4Crossing Alauddin Pass
Bibijanat Lake → Alauddin Pass → Alauddin Lakes. Trekking: approx. 10 km / 6 hours Maximum altitude: 3,860 m Elevation gain: approx. +960 m One of the defining days of the expedition. Climb to Alauddin Pass at 3,860 metres, where panoramic views open across the surrounding peaks and colourful alpine lakes far below. Descend towards the brilliant blue waters of the Alauddin Lakes and establish camp for the night.
5Mutnoye Lake
Alauddin Lakes → Mutnoye Lake → Alauddin Lakes. Trekking: approx. 4 hours Altitude: approx. 3,520 m A lighter radial trek takes us higher into the mountains towards Mutnoye Lake. The lake lies beneath the enormous rock walls of Chimtarga and Energia peaks, creating one of the most dramatic high-altitude landscapes of the journey. Return to the Alauddin Lakes in the afternoon.
6 Iskanderkul & Saratog
Alauddin Lakes → Sarvoda → Iskanderkul → Saratog. Descend from the mountains and continue by vehicle towards legendary Iskanderkul, one of Tajikistan’s most famous alpine lakes. Walk to the 40-metre waterfall often called the “Fann Niagara” and visit nearby Snake Lake before continuing to the mountain village of Saratog.
7Return to Dushanbe
Saratog → Dushanbe. After breakfast, leave the mountains and return to Dushanbe. Check into the hotel and enjoy free time for exploring the city or shopping for local crafts and souvenirs. The journey concludes with a farewell dinner.
8Departure
Private transfer to Dushanbe International Airport for your onward flight. End of the journey.
What's Included
Included
- All ground transportation by 4WD vehicle or minivan
- Professional mountain guide throughout the route
- Cook and local support team during the trek
- Pack animals for group equipment and main luggage
- 4★ hotel accommodation in Dushanbe
- Local guesthouses in Artuch and Saratog
- Tent accommodation during the mountain trek
- Full-board meals during the trekking section
- Park entrance fees and local environmental fees
- Airport transfers
Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal trekking equipment and sleeping bag
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Single-room supplements
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides, drivers and support staff
What to Bring
- Backpack: expedition size, 50 litres or more.
- Sleeping bag: comfort rating +5°C. Available to rent from us.
- Footwear: trekking boots with stiff soles, well broken in — new boots will give you blisters on a route like this. Plus something light for camp.
- Clothing: waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece, thermals, a sun hat and a warm hat — evenings at camp are cold.
- Protection: sunglasses, SPF 50+ cream, personal first-aid kit.
- Trekking poles — available to rent from us.
Photo Gallery
Price
On request
The price depends on group size and dates
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