The Kulikalon and Alauddin lakes area in Tajikistan is a mountaineer’s dream. With extraordinary snow-capped glaciers, twisty mountain roads, gorgeous alpine lakes, and dense juniper forests, there is plenty of opportunity for hiking and trekking in the Fann Mountains. In fact, these lakes are some of the most accessible in the country and well worth a trek whether you are an experienced hiker or not. The blue glacial lakes of Tajikistan are the main reasons why trekkers and mountainclimbers visit the lesser-known region of the Fann Mountains. The hundred-plus snowcapped peaks of the Fann are the third-highest on Earth and their dramatic landscape dotted with lakes of all shapes and sizes are well worth exploring.
What is included in the tour
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Private Guide
- Transport
What is NOT included in the tour
- Travel Insurance
- Visit Chukurak lake
- Explore Lake Kulikalon, a "huge lake"
Day 1: Samarkand- Pendjikent- Artuch base camp
Early morning transfer to the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing at Jartepa (50 km, 1 h). Customs and passport control on both sides, cross the border, meet Tajik local guide and driver and drive to Pendjikent via the settlement of Sarazm, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (20 km). Start sightseeing tour in Pendjikent: Rudaki Museum, local Bazaar and mosque. Lunch at local restaurant. After lunch drive to the ruins of ancient Pendjikent located within 5 minutes drive from modern Pendjikent. Pendjikent a major Sogdian city is dating back to 5th century and was destroyed with Arab conquerors in 8th century. Continue to drive to Artuch camp base (2200m). Ascending to Lake Chukurak. Overnight at Artuch camp. 3-4 hour drive, walking time: 2 hours. Ascent: 250 m.
Day 2: Chukurak lake- Kulikalon lake
A steep but gradual climb from forest to pasture takes us to the Chukurak pass at 3180m. The descent on the other side of the pass opens up to beautiful, drier landscapes and to magnificent lakes, near which we will have a picnic. We continue on the shore of Lake Kulikalon, a "huge lake" with turquoise waters where we will spend the night at 2750m. On the Chimtarga, the highest peak of the Fann Mountains (5480 m), a wonderful panorama opens up before us. Overnight in tents by Lake Bibijannat (women's paradise). Walking time: 6-7 hours. Ascent: 980 m. Descent: 450 m.
Day 3: Kulikalon lake- Alaudin lake
The path leads slightly uphill through the river valley. Then follows the ascent up to the Alaudin Pass. We have an overwhelming panorama of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The route then leads around the Alaudin summit (4,134m). The descent leads us to these beautiful turquoise lakes surrounded by a massive mountain massif and impressive rock faces. We set up camp in a beautiful location near the lakes. Walking time: 6-7 hours. Ascent: 950 m. Descent: 1065 m
Day 4: Alaudin lake- Chapdara pass- Sangui Safed
Today our hike takes us to the Sangui Safed Gorge through the Chapdara Pass at 3430m. The climb to the pass is steep at the end, but the reward is there! From the pass we enjoy a beautiful view of the imposing faces of Marie (4680m) and Mirali peaks. We also discover beautiful views of Bodhona peak (5100m). Then we continue along the Sangui Safed Gorge. Overnight in tents on the river bank. Walking time: 5-6 hours. Ascent: 800 m. Descent: 1000 m
Day 5: Sangui Safed- Chourmash- Samarkand
We walk up the Imat Gorge to the Grand Ganza Glacier. On the way we will cross several houses with shepherds and some flocks in a dry landscape and rocky then green. We stop at the foot of the glacier and at the edge of the river (2650 m) for a picnic. We will take the opportunity to observe the panorama on the glacier. Return to Sangui Safed settlement and continue to Pendjikent and Samarkand. arrival at the hotel Walking time: 6-7 hours. Ascent: 400 m. Descent: 450 m.
