Hiking Tour To The Kulikalon And Alaudin Lakes Area

Early morning transfer to the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing at Jartepa (50 km, 1 h). Customs and passport control on both sides, cross the border, meet Tajik local guide and driver and drive to Pendjikent via the settlement of Sarazm, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (20 km). Start sightseeing tour in Pendjikent: Rudaki Museum, local Bazaar and mosque. Lunch at local restaurant. After lunch drive to the ruins of ancient Pendjikent located within 5 minutes drive from modern Pendjikent. Pendjikent a major Sogdian city is dating back to 5th century and was destroyed with Arab conquerors in 8th century. Continue to drive to Artuch camp base (2200m). Ascending to Lake Chukurak.  Overnight at Artuch camp.  3-4 hour drive, walking time: 2 hours. Ascent: 250 m.

A steep but gradual climb from forest to pasture takes us to the Chukurak pass at 3180m. The descent on the other side of the pass opens up to beautiful, drier landscapes and to magnificent lakes, near which we will have a picnic. We continue on the shore of Lake Kulikalon, a "huge lake" with turquoise waters where we will spend the night at 2750m. On the Chimtarga, the highest peak of the Fann Mountains (5480 m), a wonderful panorama opens up before us. Overnight in tents by Lake Bibijannat (women's paradise). Walking time: 6-7 hours. Ascent: 980 m. Descent: 450 m.

The path leads slightly uphill through the river valley. Then follows the ascent up to the Alaudin Pass. We have an overwhelming panorama of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The route then leads around the Alaudin summit (4,134m). The descent leads us to these beautiful turquoise lakes surrounded by a massive mountain massif and impressive rock faces. We set up camp in a beautiful location near the lakes. Walking time: 6-7 hours. Ascent: 950 m. Descent: 1065 m