Fann Mountains Trek & Silk Road Cities
Fann Mountains Trek & Silk Road Cities
14 Days Starting in Tashkent and ending in
Visiting: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan
Tour Overview
The Fann Mountains, boasting numerous 5,000m plus peaks, are a section of the western Pamir-Alay mountain range in Tajikistan, sandwiched by the Zarafshans to the north and the Gissar to the south. The Pamir Mountains are a rugged and remote wilderness of jagged ridges, crystal alpine lakes and snow capped peaks that stretch and fold towards the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. We combine a five day trek in these impressive mountains with time in the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. From Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, we travel south to the Tajikistan border and up into the foothills of the Pamirs. In the company of our expert local guides and mule handlers we enter deep valleys with crystal clear lakes and flowering alpine meadows where we may see the summer camps of the Tijiki shepherds. Crossing a string of passes linking isolated valleys including Alauddin Pass (3,530m), we are rewarded with views of the ranges that stretch far into Central Asia and the south. Completing our trek we travel west to the recently reopened border point at Jartepa and on to Samarkand to marvel at the intricate mosques and palaces of the great Tamerlane rule. We complete our trilogy of the Silk Road Cities by visiting Bukhara, a prominent city along the Silk Road trade route between the East and West, with ancient architecture dating largely from the 9th to the 17th centuries.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Upon arrival into Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, you will be met with a private transfer to the group hotel. The rest of the day is free at leisure to relax and refresh. This evening you will meet the rest of the group for a welcome dinner and your guide will provide a trip briefing.
Note: Hotel check-in time today is 14:00. Should your flight arrive earlier, please discuss arrangements for early room access with your Adventure Travel Consultant.
Overnight: Gabrielle International Hotel or similar
Day 2 : Into Tajikistan & To Artuch Base Camp
After breakfast we first drive to the Oybek border point, where we complete border formalities and cross on foot into Tajikistan. You will need to carry your own luggage across this border for approx 1,200m. Once in Tajikistan, we'll drive to Khujand (100km,2hrs) where we enjoy a brief tour before continuing on to our final destination for the day, Artuch base camp. En route we'll travel over the Shakhristan pass (3378m) and into the amazing Zeravshan Valley. This area is famous for its unique mountain landscapes and stunning alpine lakes. Artuch base camp comprises of wooden chalets and cottages set amidst a wide expanse of juniper woods and it is here that we will meet our trekking guides, cook and porters.
Driving: Tashkent to Uzbek/Tajik border ~100km, 2hrs, to Artuch base camp 350km, 6hrs
Overnight: Local cottage (2,200m)
Day 3 : Trek To Kulikalon Lakes
A well trodden trail takes us up the Urjam River valley through mixed juniper and deciduous groves covering two giant scree dams steeply rising up the right hand side of the tight gorge. The dams serve as a natural filter for water running into the stream. The track levels out and once we top the upper dam, the turquoise necklace of Kulikalon Lakes frame the jagged summits of the Fann Mountains including Maria (4970m) Mirali (5120m), Rudaki (4900m) and Adamtash (4700m) which are known as the "Kulikalon Wall". After a picnic lunch we continue through the juniper forest and head to the eastern shore of Bibidjanat Lake for our first night camping. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sunset over Mirali Peak.
Hiking: ~10 km, 5hrs, +800m
Overnight: Tented camp (3,000m)
Day 4 : Alauddin Pass (3860M) To Alauddin Lake
After a hearty breakfast we pack up camp and head steeply uphill out of the juniper forest and alpine meadows to the Alauddin Pass (3860m). Here we will be able to see the entire Kulikalon Lakes system. The impressive snowcapped peaks of Chapdara (5050m), Bodhona (5138m) and Zamok (5070m) can also be viewed. After a picnic lunch we descend steeply on a rocky path to our campsite in a clearing beside Alauddin Lake. This afternoon you can opt for an easy walk around the lakes or relax at our campsite.
Hiking: ~7km, 7 hrs, +860m/ -1060m
Overnight: Tented camp (2,800m)
Day 5 : To Mutnoye Lake, Return To Alauddin Lake
We begin today with an optional walk. There are some steep ups and downs and we make our way up to Mutnoye Lake. We will see trailing glaciers, abrupt rock walls and rare birch trees. Nicknamed "Piala" for its round form, this is the smallest lake of the system which we will see today. Or you are free to stay and explore the area around the camp site.
Hiking: ~8 km, 6 hrs, +800m/ - 800m
Overnight: Tented camp (2,800m)
Day 6 : Laudan Pass (3630M) To Kulikalon Lakes (2900M)
The track climbs up the pass to a saddle from which the huge hollow of Kulikalon Lakes and the western part of the wall are almost completely visible. We will then descend on a wide track to our camp at Kulikalon Lake. Today, weather permitting is fantastic for photography as we will have unforgettable panorama views of all surrounding mountains.
Hiking: ~14km, 7 hrs, +1130m/ -1030m
Overnight: Tented camp (2,900m)
Day 7 : Via Chukurak Pass (3160M) And Gujtan Pass (2640M) To Guytan Village (1840M)
The ascent of Gujtan Pass is relatively difficult, following a track amongst a grove of fir trees. After approx. 2 hours we descend from the pass to the gorge of the Gujtan River and onto the picturesque village of Guytan where we will overnight in a homestay. You will be treated to some local food and hospitality readily offered by the people of Guytan.
Hiking: ~14km, 7 hrs, +720m/ -1780m
Overnight: Local homestay (1,840m)
Day 8 : Transfer From Guytan Village To Pendjikent
Today the tour will return to civilisation, to the rural city of Penjikent.
Located in the Zerafshan Valley, Penjikent is located on a piece of prime flat ground, a scarce commodity in the middle of high mountains. With a history extending back to the times of the ancient Silk Road, and celebrated for its ties with treasured poet Rudaki, the city boasts an archaeological site, an intriguing regional museum and a colourful, energetic bazaar. The nearby border was long closed and so this region has seen very few visitors for many years. You will be sure to be warmly welcomed.
Driving: 65km, 2hrs
Overnight: Sughd Hotel or similar
Day 9 : To Samarkand
After breakfast we transfer to the Uzbek - Tajik border at Jartepa and then on to Samarkand. You will need to carry your own luggage across this border for approx 800m. Following lunch, we head out for our first exploration of this ancient and important Silk Road city.
Driving: To border 20km, 30mins/ to Samarkand 40km, 1hr
Overnight: Hotel Dilshoda or similar
Day 10 : Explore Samarkand
Today we enjoy a full days sightseeing in and around Samarkand. First we visit the impressive "heart" of Samarkand, Registan Square enclosed by three spectacular madrasah. These huge buildings with domes and minarets covered in a mosaic of azure tiles were built from the 1400s. Registan Square is truly one of the wonders of the ancient world. We will also visit the beautiful 15th centrury Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siyob Bazaar and Ulugh Beg Observatory which dates back to the 1420s.
Overnight: Hotel Dilshoda or similar
Day 11 : To Aydar Yurt Camp
Today is a long drive through the Kyzylkum Desert. Throughout the desert more than 4,000 petroglyphs dot the slopes of the Sarmysh River. Despite the carvings dating back to the Stone Age, many have the appearance of being carved just yesterday. We will stop to view some of the best. En route we also visit Nurata, an ancient town founded in 327BC by Alexander the Great. The remains of this military fortress rise above the town and represent one of the most ancient archaeological monuments of the region. We arrive at our Yurt Camp late in the afternoon where we enjoy a hearty dinner round the camp fire in the company of local akyn (folklore singers).
Driving: 260km, 4hrs
Overnight: Yurt camp
Day 12 : To Bukhara
After breakfast we pack up camp, bid farewell our hosts and drive to the beautiful Adyarkul Lake where we will enjoy a swim and stop for a leisurely lunch. Then we continue on to Bukhara to check into our hotel and you can enjoy an evening of free time, at your leisure.
Driving: 240km, 3½ hrs
Overnight: Kavsar Boutique Hotel or similar
Day 13 : Explore Bukhara
Bukhara is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan, situated on a sacred hill where sacrifices were made by fire-worshippers in springtime. Bukhara City was founded in the 13th Century BC during the reign of Siyavushids who ascended to power 980 years before the arrival of Alexander the Great. The city's name originates from the word "vihara" which is Sanskrit for monastery. The city was once a large and important commercial centre on the Great Silk Road. Bukhara boasts more than 140 architectural monuments dating back to the middle Ages. The city consists of atmospheric narrow streets, open green parks and gardens, and superb historical and architectural monuments. This evening we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner.
Overnight: Kavsar Boutique Hotel or similar
Day 14 : Train To Tashkent, Trip Concludes
We enjoy a morning at leisure before boarding the late afternoon train to Tashkent. You will be met at the train station and transferred to either the airport or the post tour hotel. Trip concludes.
On the final day the train usually used arrives into Tashkent at approximately 19:45pm. For this train, departure flights should not be earlier 23:00pm on the final day. However, sometimes this train is fully booked which means we would use the later train, arriving into Tashkent at 22:13pm.
Note: Unless you have booked a late night departure flight, you may require a night's accommodation. Please discuss arrangements with your World Expeditions Adventure Travel Consultant.
What's Included
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Accommodation
6 nights hotel -
13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinners
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Arrival and departure airport transfers in Tashkent
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Comfortable hotels on twin share basis
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Local sightseeing guide & mountain guide on trek
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50l kit bag for personal items provided during trek with 12kg allowance
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Group camping equipment
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Porter and cook services on trek
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Pack animals for porterage
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Train ticket from Bukhara to Tashkent
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Entrance fees to museums and monuments
What's Not Included
Accommodation
6 nights hotel
The hotels used in Central Asia are usually 3 star properties, twin share, generally Russian in style. All rooms have private facilities, however please bear in mind that plumbing can at times be dubious in Central Asia, even in the best hotels. If you have a problem, advise your group leader, or floor attendant. Most hotels offer free Wifi for your use. The tents are on a twin share basis. The homestay and yurt nights are on a multi share basis.
During our time in Tajikistan we will spend 2 nights in homestays, with local Tajik families. This experience is appreciated by our clients, many of whom consider it a highlight as it provides an authentic cultural experience, interaction with a local family, and home cooked meals. The home stay accommodation is basic with simple facilities and is typical of the homes in the area. Accommodation is multi-share (3/4 per room) with mattresses and bedding provided by our hosts and shared toilet facilities. Showers are available but hot water may be limited depending on demand. These are not hotels and you should be prepared for a down to earth experience where you will be welcomed by the local community to learn of their way of life.
Also please note, when in the yurts, normally there are 5-6 other travellers.
Please note that the Tajikistan trekking infrastructure is very basic, and the standards you receive will not compare with the west. For example, hot water might not be available at all times, food may be basic and our staff will not have the same experience as our staff in other parts of the world, simply due to the fact that trekking tourism is still in its infancy in Tajikistan. You must be comfortable about travelling in remote wilderness regions and be aware that wilderness camping is often basic. Please bear this in mind; Tajikistan is without a doubt one of the most amazing destinations but be prepared for the unexpected.
Subject to availability, single room supplements and single tents must be requested at least two weeks prior to departure date.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
Grading
On a moderate trek physical activity will generally not exceed eight hours in a day. On a moderate adventure the physical activity is sustained and travelers should be comfortable with occasional rough terrain. At any stage of a moderate trek you can expect long steep climbs and descents and a wide range of weather conditions. An example of an average day on moderate trek could include several ascents and descents of 500 metres or more, level ground is rare in the mountains.
To prepare for a moderate trek you should begin training at least three months before your departure. As a benchmark, an hour of aerobic exercise three times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per bushwalk, albeit with stops along the way, you know you can cope with a moderately graded trek. Speed is not important, stamina, confidence and rhythm are.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.