Khorog Travel Guide + 7 Things to Do in Khorog (Updated January 2026)
Khorog, the lively capital of Tajikistan’s Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), nestles along the Panj River amid dramatic Pamir peaks. At ~2,100m elevation, this compact town of ~30,000 blends Ismaili culture, bustling bazaars, and stunning views—ideal as a rest stop on the Pamir Highway or base for regional adventures.
Often called the “Roof of the World” gateway, Khorog offers welcoming locals, affordable eats, and easy walks. It’s perfect for recharging before heading to Murghab or the Wakhan Valley.
Note: Roadworks continue on the Dushanbe-Khorog section into 2026, causing delays—split the journey with a night in Qala-i-Khumb.
Top 7 Things to Do in Khorog
- Central Park
Relax under shady trees in this riverside oasis. Summers bring a small carnival, swimming pool, and the annual Roof of the World Festival (July)—featuring music, dance, and crafts from Pamiri and neighboring cultures. - Khorog Bazaar
Stock up on supplies (cheaper/varied here than further east). Fresh produce shifted to the new bazaar ~1km west; main area still buzzes with goods. - Hike for Panoramic Views
Trail north from Boghen Road (past cemetery) offers sweeping city overlooks. Extend to the airport for a loop; catch a marshrutka back. - Khorog Botanical Garden
World’s second-highest garden provides epic town views, though slightly overgrown. Free entry; taxi (~12 TJS) or Marshrutka #3 recommended. - Khorog Regional Museum
Quirky artifacts (Russian labels—use Google Translate). Entry ~5 TJS. - Ismaili Jamoatkhona & Center
Modern community hub in Central Park; tours possible but restricted—mostly for locals now. - Tem Afghan Border Market
Saturdays feature Afghan traders (if open). Closed to foreigners as of late 2025 due to security; check locally.
Getting to Khorog
- From Dushanbe: Shared taxis (~400 TJS, 12-18+ hours with delays). Split via Qala-i-Khumb.
- From Murghab: Shared taxis (~120-150 TJS, ~8 hours).
- Wakhan Valley: Shared taxis from Ishkashim (~40-50 TJS) or Langar (~125 TJS).
- Onward: Shared taxi stands east (Murghab/Gunt) or near airport (Dushanbe/Wakhan).
Where to Stay
- Budget: Welcome Inn (central, friendly; ~150 TJS incl. meals); Pamir Lodge (~$7 dorm/tent); Lal Hotel Dorm.
- Midrange: Kivekas (clean, river views); LAL Hotel; Pamir Alibaba.
- Splurge: Serena Inn (luxury); Pamir Palace (4-star, fitness/bar).
Where to Eat
- Cafe Luni → Great coffee, pastries, sambusa.
- Delhi Darbar → Spicy Indian curries.
- Lal Cafe → Solid pizza.
- World Cuisine → International mix.
- Parinen/Chor Bagh → Local shashlik, riverside vibes.
Khorog charms with its laid-back vibe and mountain backdrop. Questions on Khorog or the Pamirs? Comment below! Safe travels.