Pamir Highway
Tajikistan
The M41, the Roof of the World. From Dushanbe through the Wakhan Corridor to Osh, the Pamir Highway crosses four passes above 4,000m, traces the Afghan border along the Panj River, and reaches the highest navigable plateau on Earth.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Dushanbe
Tajikistan's leafy Soviet-era capital of wide boulevards and a fine national museum. The world's third-tallest flagpole towers over Dusti Square.
- Nurek Reservoir
A vast blue lake behind the world's tallest earth-fill dam, a Soviet colossus rising from a canyon of apricot trees south of the capital.
- Khorog
The capital of Gorno-Badakhshan at the confluence of the Panj and Gunt rivers, rebuilt with Aga Khan Foundation support into a welcoming mountain hub.
- Wakhan Valley
The Panj River forms the Afghan border here. Ancient Silk Road fortresses line both banks and Afghanistan is close enough to shout across.
- Yamchun Fortress
A 2,000-year-old Silk Road fort on a cliff above the Wakhan with Afghanistan visible across the river. Hot springs bubble at its deserted base.
- Murghab
The highest town in the former Soviet Union at 3,612 m, a bleak and beautiful plateau settlement of yurts and repurposed shipping containers.
- Ak-Baital Pass
At 4,655 m, the highest point on the Pamir Highway and one of the highest driveable road passes on Earth. Views stretch into China and Afghanistan.
- Karakul Lake
A meteor-impact crater lake at 3,914 m, dark blue and salt-rimmed, ringed by 6,000 m peaks and almost entirely devoid of life.
- Osh
Kyrgyzstan's ancient Silk Road city at the foot of the Fergana Valley. Sulayman Mountain has been a sacred pilgrimage site for over 3,000 years.
Where to Eat
- Chaykhana RohatTraditional Tajik
A popular teahouse in Dushanbe offering authentic Tajik dishes in a traditional setting.
- Dehli DarbarIndian
Renowned for its flavorful Indian cuisine, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and travelers.
- Pamir LodgeLocal Pamiri
Offers home-cooked Pamiri meals in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for experiencing local flavors.
- Marco Polo RestaurantInternational
Serves a mix of international and local dishes with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Cafe LuniEuropean
A charming café in Osh known for its European-style pastries and coffee.
Things to Do
- Bibi Fatima Hot SpringsHot Springs
Natural hot springs believed to have healing properties, located near Yamchun Fortress.
- Garm ChashmaHot Springs
A popular hot spring resort known for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic benefits.
- Lenin Peak Base CampHiking
A challenging trek leading to the base camp of Lenin Peak, offering stunning alpine views.
- Khorog Regional MuseumMuseum
Showcases the history and culture of the Pamir region with diverse exhibits.
- Sary Mogol PassScenic Viewpoint
Offers panoramic views of the Pamir Mountains and is a popular spot for photography.
Travel advisory
A GBAO (Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast) permit is required and must be arranged in advance in Dushanbe or online. Passes above 4,000m are snow-blocked outside June to October and altitude sickness is a real risk. Carry spare fuel, water, and recovery gear as services are extremely scarce.