Mindblowing

Routes

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  

The Seven Lakes, also known as the Haft Kul, are a series of dazzling, multi-colored lakes nestled in the Fann Mountains. Each lake has its unique hue, ranging from turquoise to deep blue, depending on the time of day and sunlight. Starting at the village of Shing, the lakes are accessible via a narrow, winding dirt road.

Road Conditions  

The road to the Seven Lakes is rough but manageable with a high-clearance vehicle. While a 4×4 isn’t strictly necessary in dry conditions, it’s highly recommended to navigate the steep inclines and uneven surfaces comfortably. Expect loose gravel, occasional (very deep) potholes, and tight turns. Some bridges may be questionable, especially for an expedition truck.

Ken rethinking his life choices

Seven Lakes | Practical Tips & Tricks 

  • 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 lake 

After exploring the Seven Lakes, we ventured further into the heart of the Fann Mountains. Our next off-road journey aimed to reach the stunning Alaudin Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by jagged peaks. This turned out to be one of the most challenging routes we’ve tackled to date, with its steep terrain, loose rock, and relentless demands on both our vehicle and our overlanding skills.

Alaudin Lake | Key Challenges

    • 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.
parked for the night
Happy kiddos in a world full sunshine

Alaudin Lake  | Practical Tips & Tricks 

  • 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.