Central Asia
pamirs fann mountains trek
trip highlights Desert city of Bukhara Views of the Pamir Fann Mountains Fabled Silk Rd city of Samarkand Yurt Camp in the Kyzyl Kum Desert
Trip Duration 14 days Trip Code: PTR Grade Moderate Activities Trekking Summary 14 day trip, 5 day trek, 6 nights hotel, 4 nights camping, 2 nights cottage and 1 night yurt
welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in our Pamirs Fann Mountains Trek trip. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
why travel with World Expeditions? When planning travel to a remote destination, many factors need to be considered. Our extra attention to detail and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will have a memorable experience. Every trip is accompanied by an experienced local leader, as well as support staff that share a passion for the region, and a desire to share it with you. We take every precaution to ensure smooth logistics. In most cases, all internal transport, entrance fees, national park fees and transfers are included in the cost of your trip. Most importantly, our adventures always aim to benefit the local people we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience.
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
trip dates 2016
26 Jun - 09 Jul 31 Jul - 13 Aug 14 Aug - 27 Aug 08 Sep - 21 Sep
2017
25 Jun - 08 Jul 23 Jul - 05 Aug 13 Aug - 26 Aug 07 Sep - 20 Sep
important notes Note: - Similar dates in 2018 Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2016. For trips departing after this date, the price will likely increase subject to local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost Joining Tashkent:$2559 All prices are per person
options & supplements Single Supplement:
$200
World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above. For Competitive aiurfares to Tashkent and stopover ideas,contact our expert staff today to recieve a detailed quote.
Want a private trip? Book this trip as a private departure just for you and your group on your chosen date. Contact us for conditions, costs and availability.
Kazakhstan
Uzbekistan
Bukhara Samarkand Turkmenistan
Tashkent Zimut Tajikistan
the trip
The Pamir mountains are a rugged and remote wilderness of jagged ridges, alpine lakes and snow capped peaks that stretch and fold towards the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. We combine a trek in these impressive mountains with time in the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. From Tashkent we travel to Sarmarkand before crossing the Tajikistan border and onto the foot of the Pamirs. In the company of our 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 (3530m), we are rewarded with views of the ranges that stretch far into Central Asia and the south. Completing our trek we return to Tashkent before transferring to Samarkand to marvel at the intricate mosques and palaces of the great Tamerlane rule. We complete our trilogy of the silk route cities by visiting the 2500 year old Bukhara where we again appreciate the rich cultural history of Central Asia.
at a glance DAY 1 ARRIVE TASHKENT DAY 2 DRIVE TO THE TAJIKISTAN BORDER AND ON TO ARTUCH BASE CAMP DAY 3 COMMENCE TREK TO KULIKALON LAKES DAY 4 CROSS ALAUDDIN PASS (3860M) TO ALAUDDIN LAKE DAY 5 ASCEND TO MUTNOYE LAKE, RETURN TO ALAUDDIN LAKE DAY 6 ASCEND LAUDAN PASS TO KULIKALON LAKES DAY 7 CROSS GUJTAN PASS TO ZIMUT DAY 8 TRANSFER ZIMTUT TO OYBEK BORDER POINT & ONTO TASHKENT DAY 9 TRANSFER TO SAMARKAND DAY 10 IN SAMARKAND DAY 11 TRANSFER TO AYDAR YURT CAMP DAY 12 TRANSFER TO BUKHARA DAY 13 SIGHTSEEING IN BUKHARA DAY 14 TRAIN TO TASHKENT, TRIP CONCLUDES
what’s included 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinners Arrival transfer (day 1 only) and departure transfer (day 14 only) Comfortable hotels on twin share basis Local sightseeing guide Entrance fees to museums and monuments Mountain guide on trek Porter and cook services on trek Group camping equipment Train ticket from Tashkent to Samarkand and Train ticket from Bukhara to Tashkent Private transport throughout Medical kit Local doctor No local payments policy: Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices.
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
detailed itinerary DAY 1 Arrive Tashkent On arrival into Tashkent you will be met and transferred to the group hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. This evening you will meet the rest of the group for dinner. Overnight Hotel meals: D
DAY 2 Drive to the Tajikistan border and on to Artuch base camp After breakfast we commence our drive to the Oybek border point where we will complete border formalities and cross on foot into Tajikistan. You will need to carry your own luggage across this border for approx 150m. Along the way to Artuch base camp we will travel over the Shakhristan pass (3378m) and into the amazing Zeravshan Valley. This area is famous for its unique mountain landscapes and beautiful 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. Overland transfer today: Tashkent to Uzbek/Tajik border (70 km, 1,2 hrs), then cross over the border / continue drive to Artuch base camp (350 km, 7 hrs) Overnight altitude: 2200 masl Overnight Cottage meals: B,L,D
DAY 3 Commence 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 Pamir 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. (10 km, +700 m, 5 hrs) Overnight altitude: 3000 masl Overnight Camping meals: B,L,D
DAY 4 Cross 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 snowcapped peaks of Chapdara (5050m), Bodhona (5138m) and Zamok (5070m) can also be seen. After a picnic lunch we descend steeply on a rocky path to our campsite on a glade of Alauddin Lake. This afternoon you can opt for an easy walk around the lakes or relax at our campsite. (7 km, +960m/-1060m, 7 hrs) Overnight altitude: 2800masl Overnight Camping meals: B,L,D
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
DAY 5 Ascend to Mutnoye Lake, return to Alauddin Lake
fast facts Visas: Please check visa requirements with your reservations consultant* Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Brochure Reference: Asia *Ask our staff for more information.
We begin today with an optional walk. There are some steep ups and downs and we make our way up to Matnoye Lake. We will see trailing glaciers, abrupt rock walls and rare birch trees. Nicknamed “Piala” for its round form 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. (8 km, +800m, - 900m, 6 hrs) Overnight altitude: 2800masl Overnight Camping meals: B,L,D
DAY 6 Ascend Laudan Pass to Kulikalon Lakes 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. (12,5 km, +830 m/-730 m, 7 hrs) Overnight altitude: 2900 masl Overnight Camping meals: B,L,D
DAY 7 Cross Gujtan Pass to Zimut 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. We follow the wide valley of the Achimajdan River to Kishlak Zimut where we will overnight in a cottage. You will be treated to some local food and hospitality readily offered by the people of Guytan. (21 km,+800 m/-1700 m, 9 hrs) Overnight altitude: 1870 masl meals: B,L,D
DAY 8 Transfer Zimtut to Oybek border point & onto Tashkent Today we rest our legs and return to Tashkent via the Oybel pass. Again, you will need to carry your own luggage across the border area. Once border formalities are complete we will arrive in Tashkent early afternoon where the rest of the day is at leisure. (350 km, 7 hrs approx 1-2 hrs at border crossing) Overnight Hotel meals: B,L,D
DAY 9 Transfer to Samarkand This morning we catch the train to Samarkand allowing you plenty of free time in the afternoon to explore this ancient city before our group dinner. Overnight Hotel meals: B,L,D
DAY 10 In Samarkand We will have a full days sightseeing in and around Samarkand. We will first visit Registan Square, the “heart” of Samarkand. It is enclosed by three spectacular madrasah. These huge buildings with domes and minarets covered in a mosaic of azure tiles were built from the 1400s. The Registan is one of the wonders of the ancient world. We will also visit the huge mosque, bazaar and observatory. Overnight Hotel meals: B,L
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry’s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible & sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website www.worldexpeditions.com
trip grading Moderate
On a moderate trek physical activity will generally not exceed eight hours in a day, and altitudes. 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.
DAY 11 Transfer to Aydar Yurt Camp Today is a long drive in the Kyzyl Kum Desert near Bukhara. More than 4,000 petroglyphs dot the slopes of the Sarmysh River. Even though these carvings date back to the Stone Age they look like they were carved yesterday. There are carvings of rituals and scenes of everyday life, and even of domestic animals including dogs, sheep and camels. We will also visit Nurata, an ancient town founded in 327 BC 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 will have dinner round the camp fire in the company of local akyn (folklore singers). Overnight Yurt Camp meals: B,L,D
DAY 12 Transfer 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. Overnight Hotel meals: B,L
DAY 13 Sightseeing in Bukhara Bukhara is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan, situated on a sacred hill, the place where sacrifices were made by fire-worshippers in springtime. Bukhara city is supposed to be founded in the 13th Century BC during reign of Siyavushids who came to power 980 years before Alexander the Great. The name of Bukhara originates from the word “vihara” which means “monastery” in Sanskrit. The city was once a large commercial centre on the Great Silk Road. Bukhara with more than 140 architectural monuments is a “town museum” dating back to the middle Ages. The city consists of narrow streets, green parks and gardens, historical and architectural monuments. Tonight we will celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner. meals: B,L,D
DAY 14 Train to Tashkent, trip concludes After breakfast, we take an express train back to Tashkent where your trip concludes. You will be transferred to the airpost or your post accommodation arrangements from the train station. meals: B This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
adventure travel accommodation on the trip By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant of travel agent.
important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price.
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, high speed Wifi for your use. The tents are on a twin share basis. The cottage and yurt nights are on a multi share basis.
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‑eze etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included sleeping bags are not provided but can be hired locally International airfares Visas Travel Insurance (Compulsory) Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol, etc Tips and gratuities
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 5/13/2016 9:42:00 AM
pamirs fann mountains trek
We combine a trek in the impressive Pamirs Fann Mountains with the fabled Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
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trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability as we operate strictly small group adventures. Many of our adventures require us to secure services on your behalf; such as permits, hotels and flights to name but a few. The demand for these services is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form which is found at the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website www.worldexpeditions.com. On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest World Expeditions office along with your non‑refundable deposit. World Expeditions has access to competitive airfares to Morocco. Call your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation.
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 5/20/2016 11:02:56 PM
