FANN MOUNTAINS TREK
With its remote wilderness feel, rich cultural encounters, and accessible trails, the Fann Mountains offer a perfect off-the-beaten-path trekking experience for adventurous souls.
The Fann Mountains Trek is one of the most breathtaking and diverse high-altitude trekking routes in Central Asia. Located in northwestern Tajikistan, this trail winds through the heart of the rugged Zarafshan Range, a part of the greater Pamir-Alay system. The trek takes you past a dazzling chain of alpine lakes, from the crystal-clear Kulikalon and Alauddin lakes to the majestic Iskanderkul, all framed by towering snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll encounter welcoming Tajik mountain communities, ancient villages, and traditional shepherd life. With its remote wilderness feel, rich cultural encounters, and accessible trails, the Fann Mountains offer a perfect off-the-beaten-path trekking experience for adventurous souls.
BESTS
- Traverse vibrant turquoise glacial lakes and dramatic high passes
- Authentic encounters with Tajik shepherds and villagers
- Camp beneath towering peaks in pristine alpine valleys
- One of the safest and best-developed trekking routes in Tajikistan
- Optional cultural extensions to Penjikent or Dushanbe
- Possibility of customizing the itinerary with other activities or excursions
COST
2,490 USD per person with 3 participants with local guide
Private trip possible every day. Contact us to receive a customized quote for 1 or 2 people. Contact us to receive a customized quote with european guide speaking english, french, italian.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
- Day 01. Arrival in Dushanbe (800 m/2,625 ft)-Drive to Artuch 1,800m/5,906ft),
- Day 02.Trek to Kulikalon Lakes via Chukurak Pass (2,800m/9,186 ft), 4-5 hours
- Day 03.Trek to Alauddin Lake via Alauddin Pass (3,800m/12,467ft), 6-7 hours
- Day 04. Trek to Mutnoe Lake (3,500m/11,483ft), 4 hours
- Day 05. Optional Hike to Kaznok Pass (4,040m/13,255ft), Return to Alauddin Lake
- Day 06. Trek to Sarytag via Bodkhona Gorge (2,300m/7,546ft), 6 hours
- Day 07. Trek to Iskanderkul Lake (2,195m/7,201ft), 4 hours
- Day 08. Rest Day at Iskanderkul – Waterfall Hike or Relax
- Day 09. Drive to Penjikent (1,100m/3,609 ft),
- Day 10. Drive to Dushanbe (800m/2,625 ft),
- Day 11. Dushanbe City Tour
- Day 12. Final Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01.Arrival in Dushanbe (800 m/2,625 ft)-Drive to Artuch (1,800 m/5,906 ft),
Meet your guide at Dushanbe airport and transfer through the mountains to Artuch village, a base camp for treks into the Fann Mountains. Evening briefing and equipment check.
Meals included: Dinner.Overnight: Guesthouse
Day 02.Trek to Kulikalon Lakes via Chukurak Pass (2,800m/9,186 ft), 4-5 hours
Begin your trek with a steady ascent over Chukurak Pass. From the top, enjoy your first views of the glittering lakes below. Camp near the shore of Kulikalon Lake surrounded by peaks.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Tent camp
Day 03.Trek to Alauddin Lake via Alauddin Pass (3,800m/12,467ft), 6 -7 hours
Trek through rocky paths and meadows to reach the challenging Alauddin Pass. At the summit, a vast panorama opens over turquoise lakes and soaring ridges. Descend to Alauddin Lake for camp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Overnight: Tent camp
Day 04. Trek to Mutnoe Lake (3,500m/11,483ft), 4 hours
A gentler day as you ascend to Mutnoe Lake, situated near the base of Chimtarga Peak, the highest in the Fann Mountains. Stunning views and a peaceful camp in alpine wilderness.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Tent
Day 05. Optional Hike to Kaznok Pass (4,040m/13,255ft), Return to Alauddin Lake
Early morning hike to Kaznok Pass, one of the highest accessible passes in the region. Return to Alauddin for another night under the stars.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Tent
Day 06. Trek to Sarytag via Bodkhona Gorge (2,300m/7,546ft), 6 hours
Descend through Bodkhona Gorge, passing wildflower meadows and cliffside trails. Reach Sarytag village for a cultural overnight in a guesthouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Guesthouse
Day 07. Trek to Iskanderkul Lake (2,195m/7,201ft), 4 hours
Continue through pine forests and rolling hills to reach the legendary Iskanderkul Lake. Set up lakeside camp or stay in a nearby homestay.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Tent or Guesthouse
Day 08. Rest Day at Iskanderkul – Waterfall Hike or Relax
Explore the lake’s surroundings, including a short hike to the nearby “Fann Niagara” waterfall, or simply rest and enjoy the tranquil scenery.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Overnight: Guesthouse
Day 09. Drive to Penjikent (1,100 m/3,609ft),
Transfer to Penjikent, a town with ancient ruins, colorful bazaars, and Soviet-era charm. Afternoon visit to historical sites.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Overnight: Hotel
Day 10. Drive to Dushanbe (800 m/2,625 ft),
Drive back to the capital along mountain roads and through scenic valleys.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.Overnight: Hotel in Dushanbe
Day 11. Dushanbe City Tour
Explore Dushanbe’s main attractions: the National Museum, Rudaki Park, the world’s tallest flagpole, and vibrant local markets.
Meals included: Breakfast. Overnight: Hotel
Day 12. Final Departure
Transfer to Dushanbe International Airport for your flight home. Thank you for exploring Tajikistan with us!
Meals included: Breakfast
INCLUDED
- All private transfers (airport, city, and trekking areas)
- Local English-speaking mountain guide
- All meals during the trek
- Accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, tents as per itinerary)
- Pack horses or porters for luggage during trek
- Entry permits to Fann Mountains National Park
- Camping gear: tents, mats, cooking equipment
- First-aid kit and satellite phone (emergency use)
NOT INCLUDED
- International flights
- Tajikistan visa (e-visa available)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Sleeping bag (rental available)
- Personal expenses, snacks, beverages
- Tips for local staff
- Additional activities outside itinerary
ON REQUEST
- Sleeping bag rental
- Single room supplement
- European guide (English, French, Italian)
- Extra nights in Dushanbe or Penjikent
- Side trip to 7 Lakes or Yagnob Valley
- Cultural extension to Khujand or Samarkand (Uzbekistan)
- Upgrade to boutique or luxury hotel in Dushanbe