Tajikistan: Cities & Seven Lakes

The journey begins in Panjakent, one of the region’s most important historic centres. The first stop is Ancient Panjakent, once a major Sogdian city along the Silk Road, where the remains of houses, wall paintings and temple structures offer a glimpse into urban life between the 5th and 8th centuries. Continue to the Rudaki Museum and Sarazm, an ancient settlement dating back around 5,500 years and now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 7

...Travel into the Shing Valley to the Seven Lakes, a chain of mountain lakes set one above another along a narrow gorge. The route passes Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor, Nofin, Khurdak and Marguzor, the largest of the seven. Higher in the valley lies Hazorchashma, the final lake in the chain. The day includes short walks and stops along the lakes and surrounding viewpoints, followed by an overnight stay near Marguzor or Hazorchashma.

Drive through the Zarafshan Valley to Istaravshan, one of Central Asia’s ancient cities. Visit Kok-Gumbaz, Mug Teppe and the local bazaar, where traditional crafts, produce and textiles remain part of everyday city life. Continue to Khujand for hotel check-in and an evening at leisure.

Spend the day discovering Khujand, one of the historic centres of the Sogd region. Visit the Archaeological Museum and Khujand Fortress, followed by a walk through Kamoli Khujandi Park. Continue to Panjshanbe Market and the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin. The day concludes at Arbob Palace, one of the city’s notable cultural and architectural landmarks.

Travel from Khujand to Dushanbe through the Fann Mountains, with several stops along the way. The road passes through changing mountain landscapes, small villages and river valleys. Arrive in Dushanbe and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Begin the day at Navruz Palace, known for its decorative halls and traditional craftsmanship, before continuing to the National Museum of Tajikistan and its archaeological, ethnographic and historical collections. Later, walk through Rudaki Park and Ismoil Somoni Square. The day concludes at Dushanbe’s Main Mosque, one of the largest religious complexes in Central Asia.

Begin the final day at Mehrgon Market, a modern city bazaar selling local produce, textiles and everyday goods. Continue to Hissar Fortress outside Dushanbe. Depending on the departure time, there may be some free time back in the city for a walk or shopping before the airport transfer.