This guide describes twenty high-altitude treks of 2-9 days in the
mountains of Tajikistan, covering the Fann Mountains, Pamirs and
northern ranges, plus five day hikes near the capital, Dushanbe, and a
10-day trek in the Afghan Wakhan Corridor. As well as detailed route
description and 1:100,000 mapping for each trek, there is a wealth of
practical advice on transport and visas, trekking support, equipment,
cultural awareness, safety and security, as well as background notes on
history, flora and fauna and a Tajik-Russian-Pamiri-English glossary.
The guide can be used either to plan an independent trek or to select,
prepare for and enhance an organised expedition.
Known as 'the Roof of the World', Tajikistan is one of the most
mountainous countries on Earth, with 93% of its landmass considered
mountainous territory. This is where the mighty Himalaya meet the Tian
Shan, Karakoram and Hindu Kush, and a centuries-old network of trails
criss-crosses the remote terrain, linking isolated villages and
shepherds' camps. Although infrastructure is fragile and tourism in its
infancy, this Central Asian nation presents some outstanding
opportunities for the adventurous trekker.
The hand-picked routes showcase Tajikistan's breathtaking landscapes of
lofty snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and sweeping high-altitude
plateaus. Trekking here is also a rich cultural experience: in addition
to wild camping, many of the treks include the opportunity to experience
the fascinating local culture and warm hospitality in a traditional
homestay, meeting those who call this remote wilderness home. This guide
will be your companion to discovering Tajikistan, a country with so much
to offer and one of Central Asia's best kept secrets.
