Abrashim Qala
The climb is steep, but not long, and the views, but also the ruins, are more than worth the effort to reach Abrashim Qala high up in the Wakhan Valley.
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Istaravshan Bazaar
As long as this bazaar is not on the tourist trail through Central Asia, the Tuesday market of Istaravshan is a wonderful experience full of warm encounters with Tajiks.
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Langar petroglyphs
A steep hike up from Langar takes you to the petroglyphs - where the question is: which ones are real, which ones are not?
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Keng Shiber
The remotest area of the Pamirs on our drive through the region was Keng Sheber, well off the main Pamir Highway and gateway to several valleys to explore.
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Lake Kara Kul
Determined to visit Kara-Kul lake, I managed to spend some time here despite the troubled crossing into Kyrgyzstan. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the Pamirs.
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Bulunkul
A small settlement near a lake with the same name, Bulunkul provokes an end-of-the-world feeling because of its isolated location and sheer, wild beauty.
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Marguzor lakes
A beautiful area to immerse yourself in wild nature with lakes in amazing translucent colours, mountains, easy hiking, great views, and always the possibility of a good rain shower.
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Istaravshan Old Town
One of the oldest cities in Tajikistan, the old town of Istaravshan is well preserved and is still inhabited by people - with several points of interest hidden inside.
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Vrang Buddhist stupa
A short climb above the main valley floor, the Buddhist stupa of Vrang does not only offer a surprising religious change in a largely Muslim country, but also spectacular views over Wakhan valley.
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Khakha Fortress
Coming from the west, Khakha fortress is one of the first points where you can get an idea of the wild beauty and old fortresses of Wakhan valley.
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Murgab
A wind-swept place, the largest town in the region, potentially a dream for those coming from the Pamirs, Murgab turns out to be more pleasant than a first impression might suggest.
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Yamchun fort
Towering high above the valley bed, Yamchung fort is the most complete fort of the Wakhan valley, still equipped with watchtowers, and offering unobstructed views over the valley.
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Yashil Kul
After the barren and wild landscapes of the Pamirs, Yashil Kul feels like paradise. The setting is marvellous - but come in summer, since this is the coldest places in Central Asia.
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