Skip to content

Tajikistan

Trekking in the Fann Mountains

The classic route through the heart of the Fann Mountains from the Artuch mountaineering camp: the Kulikalon and Alaudin Lakes, the Mutnye Lakes, the 4,750-meter Chimtarga Pass and the descent to Big and Small Allo lakes.

Trekking in the Fann Mountains Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Alaudin Lakes Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Energiya Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains, Tajikistan Fann Mountains Tajikistan Alaudin Lakes Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Chimtarga Pass Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Energiya Peak Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak
All 23 photos
Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Season
July — August
Group
from 1 person
Price
950 $ 😍
Book now

Itinerary
9 days · tap a day to expand

  1. Day 1 Transfer Tashkent → Artuch mountaineering camp

    Arrival at the Artuch mountaineering lodge. The Artuch mountaineering base is located at an altitude of 2,200 m, high in the heart of the Fann Mountains. Accommodation in rooms at the mountaineering camp. Dinner at the mountaineering camp's café.

  2. Day 2 Artuch (2,200 m) → Kulikalon Lakes → Lake Bibijanat (2,800 m)

    The start of the active part of the trek. We climb a good trail to the Kulikalon Lakes. For the first few days donkeys will carry our backpacks, which will make acclimatization easier and reduce the load. Our route begins with an ascent along a waterfall and the Khodzharovat and Ruziravat mountains. During the climb you can admire the wonderful panorama of the majestic Kulikalon Wall and the surrounding peaks over 4,000 m (Adamtash, Mirali, Rudaki and others). Along the way we will see the Kulikalon Lakes basin (seven lakes) with crystal-clear emerald-blue water. There is fish in the lakes. The trail runs through a picturesque juniper forest. After lunch, a walk around the lakes of the Kulikalon basin. We will set up camp on the shore of Lake Bibijanat and stay for the first night. Overnight in a tent.
    Distance 10 km; 5 hours; +700 m.

  3. Day 3 Alaudin Pass (about 3,800 m, 1A) → Alaudin Lakes (2,800 m)

    Day description: an early start to climb the first graded pass of the route, the Alaudin Pass (about 3,800 m, grade 1A). This is the key acclimatization point of the route.

    1. Pass ascent: a gradual gain in elevation along a good trail. As you climb, views open up of the Kulikalon Wall and the Dushakha lakes (the “Eyes of Maria”). From the saddle of the pass, there is a breathtaking view of Chapdara Peak (5,197 m) and the Chapdara River valley.
    2. Descent to the Alaudin Lakes: far below, you can see the stunningly colored Alaudin Lakes, ranging from light blue to deep ultramarine. The trail down to the lakes takes about 2–3 hours.
    3. Alaudin Lakes: among the most beautiful lakes in the Fann Mountains. They are located in an alpine zone with minimal vegetation, which creates a special austere beauty. There is a teahouse here where you can have a hot tea.

    The camp is set up on the lake shore (2,800 m).
    Distance 10 km; +1,000 m

  4. Day 4 Rest day at the Alaudin Lakes (2,800 m)

    Today we will spend the day at the Alaudin Lakes, enjoying the peaceful setting of this corner of the Fann Mountains. A day for photos, a visit to a teahouse, and a walk to a local village.
    Camp on the lakeshore (2,800 m). Overnight in a tent.
    Distance 6–7 km; 150 m.

  5. Day 5 Alaudin Lakes (2,800 m) → Mutnye Lakes (3,490 m)

    Morning. After breakfast we continue our route to the Muddy Lakes. Throughout the day there is a magnificent panorama of the peaks Kaznok, Zamok (5070 m), Energiya (5120 m) and Chimtarga (5489 m).
    The harsh nature of the alpine zone, hanging glaciers and steep moraine ridges. Along the way we pass a few birch trees and a small lake, nicknamed the Bowl for its round shape (those who wish can take a dip in it), giant steps left by a retreating glacier, and polished rocks. High in the sky you can see eagles circling. Near them we say goodbye to the mule drivers — you can carry your backpack yourself or hand it over to the porters. The whole hike will take no more than three to four hours, so we will spend the entire second half of the day resting. The splendor of the landscape and the absence of vegetation create a mesmerizing picture.
    Overnight in a tent.
    Distance: 7 km, elevation gain +800 m.

  6. Day 6 Mutnye Lakes (3,490 m) → approach to Chimtarga Pass (4,450 m)

    Today we have a long climb from the Mutnye Lakes to the saddle, gaining about 960 m of elevation. We will go only up to the pass, acclimatizing gradually as we gain altitude. The trail first runs over scree, then turns onto the glacier descending from Energiya Peak and brings us to a fairly steep scree slope, after which we reach a cozy spot at the pass. We will rest and have a snack right there.
    Then we continue to the third tent camp below the Chimtarga Pass (4,450 m) and have dinner with an incomparable view of the peaks of Chimtarga and Energia; the pass saddle and the summits of the giant mountains are clearly visible. Ahead of us is the highest overnight stay of the trek.
    Night in a tent.
    Distance: 6 km, +960 m

  7. Day 7 Chimtarga Pass (4,750 m) → Bolshoye Allo (3,140 m)

    In the morning we make a push and reach the saddle of the Chimtarga Pass. From 4,750 m, a wonderful panorama opens up of the lofty peaks of Lesser and Greater Ganza. A long descent awaits us into the valley of the Right Zindon River, to Lake Bolshoye Allo. The trail runs along slopes strewn with small stones. In places it is hard going, but we will manage. After a final crossing of a large boulder field, we come out at the junction of valleys where the cherished lake is hidden. In 1912 a powerful earthquake shook the Fanns, instantly shattering the southern slope of the Western Fann Range. The river stopped, and the mountains witnessed the birth of a new "mountain eye": Bolshoye Allo. It is bean-shaped and filled with icy water of an extraordinarily rich blue color.
    Among the thirty Fann lakes, Bolshoye Allo is considered the most majestic and beautiful.
    Overnight in a tent.
    Distance: 12 km; +650 m, -1,600 m.

  8. Day 8 Bolshoye Allo (3,140 m) → Maloye Allo (2,340 m) → Gazza → Artuch

    On this day we have the longest hike and the final part of our route. The trail leads us along a steep gorge, past the small lake Maloye Allo. We have lunch on the shore, enjoying the coolness and calm of the lake. With every hundred meters of descent toward the village of Gazza, it gets warmer. We meet our driver.
    Then we drive to the Artuch mountaineering camp. A wonderful farewell evening and a sauna await us.
    Distance 19 km, -1,500 m

  9. Day 9 Departure to Tashkent or Samarkand

    Breakfast. Departure to Tashkent (those who wish can take the mountaineering camp's vehicles to Penjikent or to the border crossing toward Samarkand).

About the tour

Located in the southwest of the Pamir-Alai, in western Tajikistan, the Fann Mountains are famous for their turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks above 5,000 meters, and the legendary song by Yuri Vizbor, "I Left My Heart in the Fann Mountains." The classic nine-day route through the Kulikalon and Alaudin lakes, over the Alaudin and Chimtarga passes to Lake Bolshoye Allo, suits prepared beginners and is done with light packs, with the support of pack donkeys.

Tour dates and prices
Date Price per person
July 15, 2027 950 $
July 26, 2027 950 $
August 7, 2027 950 $
August 18, 2027 950 $

Highlights

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan

    Artuch mountaineering camp

    A base camp at an altitude of about 2,200 m with amenities — the starting point for a trek in the Fann Mountains

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan

    Kulikalon Lakes

    Several high-mountain lakes surrounded by cliffs and juniper forests, offering panoramic views of the Fann peaks.

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan

    Lake Bibijanat

    A mountain lake on a trekking route, surrounded by rocky slopes and picturesque trails.

  • Fann Mountains Tajikistan Alaudin Lakes

    Alaudin Lakes

    A group of bright high-mountain lakes with multi-colored water against the backdrop of rugged peaks.

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Chimtarga Pass

    Chimtarga Pass, 4750 m

    A high mountain pass offering sweeping views of the valleys and neighboring peaks.

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Energiya Peak

    You can climb Energia Peak (5,120 m)

    An option to climb one of the highest peaks of the route for those who want to challenge themselves.

  • Trekking in the Fann Mountains

    Lake Bolshoye Allo

    A blue lake nestled among the mountain slopes, creating the effect of a secluded high-mountain haven.

  • Fann Mountains, Tajikistan — Peak

    Lake Maloye Allo

    Another mountain lake, completing the route and serving as a beautiful point of descent from the passes.

Tour conditions

Starting point
Tashkent
Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price
950 $ 😍

Included

  • Accommodation in a hotel;
  • Visa invitation letter;
  • Meals;
  • Guide services;
  • Entrance tickets to sites and eco-fees;
  • Transfer.

Not included

  • Visa (the cost depends on citizenship);
  • Immigration fee (~$20).

Additional information

  • Prepayment 50%;
  • Booking is open for the following dates: 07/15/2027, 07/26/2027, 08/07/2027, 08/18/2027;
  • If the specified dates do not suit you, it is possible to arrange suitable dates individually;
  • To stay in Uzbekistan you need to be registered, which you can get by checking in at a hotel;
  • Since January 2018, citizens of CIS countries can stay in Tajikistan for up to 10 days without registration (14 days including weekends).

Good to know

10 answers to frequently asked questions

Do you need any hiking experience for the Fann Mountains?

No mountaineering experience is required; this is mountain hiking (trekking), not mountaineering. However, experience with multi-day hikes is desirable. Beginners in good physical shape are also welcome, but it is important to honestly assess your abilities. If you can walk 15 km with a 10 kg backpack, you can handle the route.

What kind of physical fitness is required?

Ability to walk 5–7 hours a day with an 8–12 kg backpack. We recommend starting regular cardio training (running, cycling) 2–3 months before the trek, strengthening your legs, and practicing on weekend hikes.

In what languages are the tours guided?

Guides speak Russian and English. The language of the guide is specified in advance when booking the tour.

Is it possible to rent equipment?

You can rent some of the gear from us.

When is the best time to visit the Fann Mountains?

Best season: July – September

  • July: the warmest month, all passes are open;
  • August: stable weather, comfortable temperatures;
  • September: fewer tourists, golden autumn, but cooler

June and October are possible too, but snow on the passes can limit the route.

Is it possible to combine the hike with a visit to Samarkand?

Yes, this is a very popular option! Usually, participants fly to Samarkand 1–2 days before the start of the trek and spend 1–2 days there afterward. You can visit:

  • Registan;
  • Bibi-Khanym Mosque;
  • Shah-i-Zinda necropolis;
  • the Ulugbek Observatory;
  • Siab Bazaar

Can I go on my own or with my own group of friends?

Yes, we can arrange a private tour to the Fann Mountains with an itinerary that suits you.

Where can I exchange money?

Money can be exchanged upon arrival at local banks.

Do citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia need a visa for Tajikistan and Uzbekistan?

Citizens of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia don't need a visa to visit Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

List of necessary things

This is the minimum list of clothing and gear that every participant must have:

  • warm sweater;
  • windproof lightweight jacket;
  • hat, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter);
  • boots with ankle protection;
  • light footwear for leisure and fording (sandals, sneakers);
  • daypack;
  • three-day backpack;
  • sunglasses;
  • hiking trousers (winter and summer);
  • thermal underwear;
  • personal medications;
  • personal hygiene products;
  • headlamp;
  • trekking socks;
  • several pairs of gloves;
  • snow gaiters.

Didn’t find an answer?

Ask a question

What are the Fann Mountains, and why are they legendary?

Geography and location: the Fann Mountains are located in Tajikistan, in the western part of the Pamir-Alai mountain system, between the Hissar and Zeravshan ranges. The highest summit is Chimtarga Peak (5,489 m). The region includes more than 30 large glacial lakes with water of extraordinary shades, from soft turquoise to deep ultramarine.

The name “Fann” comes from an ancient Sogdian word meaning “mountains.” The region was known as far back as the days of Alexander the Great. In Soviet times, the Fanns became a mecca for mountaineers and trekkers. The mountains gained lasting fame from bard Yuri Vizbor's song “I Left My Heart in the Fann Mountains,” written after his 1968 trek.

What makes the Fann Mountains special

  • Color of the lakes: thanks to the special composition of the glacial suspension, the water has a fantastic turquoise-emerald color;
  • Diversity of landscapes: from juniper forests to alpine meadows and glaciers;
  • Accessibility: technically simple routes without the need for mountaineering equipment;
  • Few crowds: unlike the popular treks of Nepal, there are significantly fewer tourists here;
  • Proximity to the Great Silk Road: the opportunity to combine it with a visit to Samarkand and Bukhara

Main attractions of the region

  • The Kulikalon Wall and lakes;
  • Alaudin lakes;
  • Lake Iskanderkul (named after Alexander the Great);
  • Chimtarga Pass (4,750 m) is the highest point of the classic route;
  • Lake Bolshoye Allo is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Fann Mountains;
  • Artuch Mountaineering Camp is a base camp at an altitude of 2,200 m.

Reviews

5.047 reviews

  • Alexander Shakhlo

    First of all — we loved everything!

    Tour of almost the entire country, two adults, 9 days, mid-April.

    Initially, we were looking for package tours to cover as much ground as possible in a short period of time. We stumbled upon XtrailTour, represented by Evgeny Shabanov, while researching options around the Aral Sea. Evgeny quickly got involved and offered assistance in organizing the sightseeing itinerary and logistics not only for the Aral Sea but also for all the other cities and places we were interested in.

    As a result, we had a wonderful individual tour of almost all the main attractions of Uzbekistan: Tashkent (+ the Institute of Solar Physics, Amirsoy, Charvak Reservoir) -> Samarkand -> yurt camp near Lake Aydarkul -> Gijduvan -> Bukhara -> Urgench -> Khiva -> Nukus -> Muynak -> yurt camp on the Aral Sea -> Nukus -> Tashkent

    Once we'd agreed on everything on our “wish list”, Evgeny put together an itinerary for the entire route with contacts for the guides and transfers.

    Great guides, good transfers, everything is very flexible, Evgeny and everyone else are always in touch.

    Considering the tight time frame for preparing the tour, the many moves between cities, and the sometimes major changes we made to the itinerary along the way — there were no problems anywhere (we booked the hotels and some of the domestic transfers ourselves).

    Communication was mainly via Telegram with everyone.

    Getting around the country — transfers arranged by Evgeny, the Afrosiyob high-speed train, domestic flights, Yandex Taxi.

    Let me emphasize once again that, as an individual tour, everything was as flexible and convenient for us as possible (wait for us here, let us take more time for photos there, let's also visit this place, etc.).

    I would like to separately highlight the guides in Bukhara (Albina) and on the Aral Sea (driver Kasym and guide Ajiniyaz).

    We saw almost everything we wanted (the weather made some adjustments). Without any incidents.

    Very positive overall impression of the tour and the country as a whole!

    I highly recommend XtrailTour and Evgeny.

  • Oleg

    The hike was very well organized. The guide (Evgeny) always supported us on different sections of the trail. He took care not only of safety and comfort, but also made beautiful videos and photos.

    I recommend this hike, or any other hike with xtrailtour, to everyone!

    In the future I plan to go on more hikes with this company!

  • Marzena Kochaniak

    Super, to była fajna przygoda. Dogrywanie wycieczki trwało dosłownie chwilę -zamawialiśmy ją wieczorem a rano już wyruszyliśmy. Zejście do Wodospadu, zrobiło wrażenie.Przewodnik bardzo profesjonalny, pomocny i z pasją do gór. Zaopiekował się nami jak własną rodziną.Polecamy

  • Alexey

    Friends from Russia came to visit. They wanted to see the historic cities of Uzbekistan and our mountains. We were given the contact details of Evgeny's travel agency. We called, and told them what we wanted. They listened to us and put together several possible plans for our trip. We chose the most suitable option. In the end, our route started in Bukhara, what a magnificent city with its architecture. Then we headed to the Nuratau Mountains, stopping on the way in the town of Nurata, where we visited the sacred Chashma complex and walked around the remains of Alexander the Great's fortress. In the Nuratau Mountains we visited the wonderful villages of Sob, Sentob and Mazhrum. We spent the night in a guesthouse in the village of Hayat. What beautiful places, we didn't want to leave))) Then we went on to Samarkand. A beautiful city with lots of historic architecture. In the evening we looked in on the new part of Samarkand. It was beautiful too, but we still liked the old part, the mosques and minarets, better. And from Samarkand our friends flew home with a full load of positive emotions and extra kilograms gained from the delicious Uzbek cuisine)))

  • Ruzalya

    The Uzbek vibe in all its beauty.
    Those 7 days in Uzbekistan are still spinning in my head.
    We started right away with the mountains. We headed to Chimgan, and it was the perfect decision. After a long flight, we were greeted by fresh air and cool weather. We climbed higher, looked out over the ridges, had rice soup and shashlik in some yurt, and realized we had already fallen in love. The mountains here are completely different: soft, green, not intimidating.
    Then we went down to Tashkent. The city turned out to be a pleasant surprise: modern, with huge bazaars where your eyes run wild. In the evening we sat in a teahouse, ate plov and shashlik, drank green tea, and didn't want to leave anywhere anymore.
    And then it took off. Samarkand… Registan is simply out of this world.
    Bukhara is a universe of its own. Narrow streets, old courtyards, the Lyabi-Hauz square where people drink tea in the evening and nothing is rushed. Time really slows down there.
    And the finale: Khiva.
    In short, one of the tastiest and most heartfelt trips in recent years. Uzbekistan hooks you strongly and quickly.

  • Ksenia

    We want to say a huge thank you to Victoria for these wonderful two days! ❤️ Thanks to her, we didn't just see the beautiful sights of Tashkent, we truly immersed ourselves in the history, culture and traditions of Uzbekistan. We learned a lot of interesting things, tried national dishes and felt the special atmosphere of this amazing country.
    And special thanks to Victoria for her responsiveness and willingness to help! In some situations she literally saved us, helped us sort out our problems and did everything to make the trip comfortable and leave us with only pleasant impressions and lots of great photos))
    Thank you for introducing us to Uzbekistan, for your attention and your warm, heartfelt approach 🥰🫶

  • Ilya

    Uzbekistan is the new Rome of modern history. The trip was a great success. I'd love to go back to warm and beautiful Uzbekistan once more. Thank you, Evgeny, for the tour

  • Morgan Morgan

    We are absolutely delighted with our trip to the Institute of Solar Physics with our guide Artem. Excellent organization, everything on time, a careful and calm driver, a clean bus, perfectly planned time at each site, and lunch at a very tasty place by the river. The Institute of Solar Physics made a stunning impression, and all our guests were delighted. We will recommend it to friends and colleagues.
    Thank you for a magical day off.
    Best regards,
    A group from Moscow and the Moscow region

Leave a review

How was your trip? Tap a star
Photos — up to 5, max 10 MB each
Your review will appear on the site after moderation

Why travel with us

  • Individual tours tailored to you

    We build each itinerary to match your interests and pace.

  • Comfort at every step

    We take care of accommodation, transport and full support.

  • Well-planned travel logistics

    We arrange flights, transfers and accommodation in advance.

  • Memories that stay with you

    We create journeys that leave everyone with vivid impressions

  • Experienced guides by your side

    We always run our routes safely, professionally and with passion.

  • The best places in Central Asia

    We open up locations that regular tour groups never reach.

  • 24/7 support on the route

    Always in touch, solving any issue quickly and clearly.

  • Active adventures for everyone

    Hikes, climbs and day treks for every level.

Private tour

We will build a tour for your dates — free and within 1 day

Sightseeing tours and hikes, beach holidays and last-minute deals — we will find a trip for your dates and budget, from 1 day to 3 weeks.

  1. Request in 1 minute
  2. We discuss the details
  3. Get 2–3 options within a day
  • 9 years on the trails
  • Licensed guides

Evgeny Shabanov Founder of XtrailTour, mountain guide

We reply within 15 minutes · 08:00–22:00

Find a tour

or message us

Telegram Max WhatsApp

Or call +998 (90) 915 82 51

Our other tours

Send a request

    Book a tour

      Ask a question