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Tajikistan is a land of untamed beauty, where towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes create a paradise for adventurous travelers. In this post, we focus on the northern part of our journey through Tajikistan: the stunning Fann Mountains. This mountain range is renowned for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and world-class trekking routes, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Specifically, we’ll take you through our adventures at the enchanting Seven Lakes and along the challenging road to Alaudin Lake. If you’re dreaming of an off-road adventure filled with breathtaking views and raw challenges, this route is a must. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this part of Tajikistan unforgettable and how you can prepare for it.
What to Expect Â

Seven Lakes | Practical Tips & TricksÂ
- Fuel Up: There are no gas stations along the route, so ensure your tank is full before starting. Carry extra fuel if needed.
- Food & Water: Pack plenty of snacks and drinking water. Local villages may have basic supplies, but it’s best not to rely on them.
- Camping or Staying: Camping spots are available near several lakes, offering serene views. Alternatively, you can stay in local homestays in Shing or the villages en route.
- Timing: Aim to visit early in the day to enjoy the lakes without the afternoon glare and to give yourself enough daylight for the journey. Even better if you’re able to witness a beautiful sunrise/sunset! Or you could do like us… And stay multiple days, just to be able to take in all the natural beauty!
Continuing the journey to Alaudin lakeÂ
Alaudin Lake | Key Challenges
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- Terrain: Expect rocky paths, river crossings, and some areas where the road is barely more than a trail. Be prepared for steep climbs and extremely narrow lanes with deep cliffs right beside you. Certain sections are likely impassable for larger expedition trucks, so careful planning and vehicle choice are essential.
- Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, with sudden rain or cold temperatures even in summer. After our hike to the lake, the weather took a dramatic turn for the worse. We decided to leave the valley, but the journey out was outright dreadful. Trails transformed into rivers, the road became extremely slippery, and there were moments when we genuinely feared for our lives. We didn’t capture any footage during this time—we were too terrified. This experience serves as a reminder that you must always be prepared for anything, and even then, nature’s power can render you helpless.


Alaudin Lake | Practical Tips & TricksÂ
- Maps: Use offline maps (like Maps.me) or a reliable GPS, as cell service is unreliable. Consider consulting locals for directions.
- Gear: Bring recovery gear (tow straps, shovels) in case you get stuck. A portable air compressor can help adjust tire pressure for the rocky terrain.
- Camping: There are several flat areas near Alaudin Lake perfect for camping. Be prepared for cold nights, even in warmer months.
- Altitude: Alaudin Lake sits at about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), so take precautions if you’re not acclimatized to higher altitudes. And naturally, the higher you venture into the mountains, the quicker the weather can change.
- Trekking: If you’re up for a hike, the trails around Alaudin Lake lead to stunning viewpoints and other alpine lakes.
If you have any questions about our journey through Tajikistan please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’d love to help you out in any way we can.