Dushanbe-Osh via Wakhan corridor and Bulung-Kol-Yashil kol lakes

Dear Travelers!

We offer a classic overland tour starting from the city of Dushanbe, following the famous and picturesque Wakhan Corridor. From there, the route continues through the beautiful Bulunkul and Yashilkul Lakes, leading to the high-altitude town of Murghab. After exploring the eastern Pamirs, the journey crosses into Kyrgyzstan’s majestic Alay Valley, passing through Sary-Mogol and Tulpar-Kol Lake at the foot of the legendary Lenin Peak, and finally ending in the city of Osh.
To make the experience even more memorable, we’ve included optional day hikes along the way — perfect opportunities to enjoy the region’s raw natural beauty on foot.
We wish you an unforgettable journey!

Day 1: Dushanbe – Kalai-Khumb (300 km)

  • Early departure towards the Pamirs.
  • Scenic stops for photos and snacks along the way.
  • Visit the Nurek Reservoir, taste dried fruits at a local market, and explore the Hulbuk Museum in Vose.
  • After lunch, continue the drive to Kalai-Khumb – the first settlement on the Pamir Highway.
  • Dinner and overnight at a guesthouse (accommodation options range from guesthouses to hotels; recommended: Karon Palace, Roma Guesthouse, Zink).

Day 2: Kalai-Khumb – Rushan – Jizev Bridge (205 km), Hike to Jizev Village (12 km one way)

  • Morning departure toward Rushan.
  • Stops along the way to meet locals and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
  • Upon arrival in Rushan, rest and explore the surroundings. The road follows the Panj River, offering views of Afghan villages across the border.
  • After lunch, drive to the Jizev Bridge, then begin a 3–4-hour hike through the Bartang Valley to the village of Jizev.
  • Overnight in a traditional village hut (due to limited space and simple conditions, it is recommended to bring sleeping bags and tents).

Day 3: Jizev – Khorog (85 km)

  • Morning return hike to meet the driver.
  • Continue the drive to Khorog.
  • After lunch, visit the botanical garden and local souvenir shops. The unique climate and mountainous landscapes make Khorog a charming destination.
  • (If the visit falls on a Saturday or Sunday, you can also visit the Afghan Bazaar in Khorog.)
  • Overnight at a hotel (recommended: Pamir Palace, Pento, Lal, Kwikas).

Day 4: Khorog – Ishkashim – Langar (225 km)

  • Departure to Ishkashim.
  • En route, visit the Garm-Chashma hot spring (12 km round-trip detour).
  • (If traveling on Saturday or Sunday, visit the famous Afghan border market held near Ishkashim.)
  • Entering the Ishkashim Gorge – the heart of the Wakhan Corridor.
  • Visit Bibi Fatima hot spring, Yamchun Fortress, and enjoy the scenic views along the Afghan border.
  • Overnight in Langar.

Day 5: Langar – Bulunkul – Murghab (280 km)

  • Drive to Murghab – the highest town in Tajikistan and a former Soviet administrative center of the Kyrgyz district.
  • Visit the local market and learn about the culture of the Pamiri Kyrgyz people.
  • Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 6: Murghab – Karakul Lake – Sary-Mogol (285 km)

  • Early departure from Murghab.
  • Arrive at the southern shore of Karakul Lake.
  • Photo stop and panoramic views, then continue to the village of Sary-Mogol in Kyrgyzstan.
  • The route passes over two spectacular high mountain passes – Ak-Baital (4,655 m) and Kyzyl-Art (4,280 m).
  • Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 7: Sary-Mogol – Tulpar-Kul Lake (25 km, ~1 hour)

  • Drive to Tulpar-Kul Lake.
  • Scenic hike to Lenin Peak base camp and Travelers’ Pass or return from Lukovaya Polyana (onion meadow).
  • Overnight in a yurt camp.

Day 8: Tulpar-Kul – Osh (245 km)

  • Arrival in Osh by lunchtime.
  • Delicious lunch at a local café or teahouse.
  • Hotel check-in and city tour of Osh: visit Sulaiman-Too Mountain, starting with the cave museum, panoramic viewpoint, and descending to local parks and museums.
  • Farewell dinner at a city restaurant.
  • End of the unforgettable journey and goodbye to your service providers.

Price:

  • Price for transport with the driver including fuel: 1500 dollar for the vehicle

1-4 people can share the cost