Lakes Loop Trek: Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains Gem (January 2026 Update)
The Lakes Loop in the Fann Mountains remains one of Tajikistan’s most accessible and stunning multi-day treks—featuring turquoise alpine lakes, dramatic 5,000m+ peaks, and welcoming shepherd communities. This moderate route (no technical skills required) showcases Kulikalon Bowl’s emerald waters and iconic Lake Alovaddin (Alauddin).
As of 2025-2026, the area stays open and popular with independent hikers and small groups. No special permits needed (unlike GBAO for Pamirs), and infrastructure like Artuch Alplager and Vertical Alovaddin camps remains operational with basic lodging/food.
Classic Lakes Loop (3-4 days, ~32km loop from Artuch Alplager)
- Day 1: Artuch Alplager → Kulikalon Bowl (camp near lakes like Bibijanat or Dushakha).
- Day 2: Kulikalon → Laudan Pass (3,630m) → Lake Alovaddin (camp on grassy shores; small seasonal café nearby).
- Day 3: Alovaddin → Alovaddin Pass (3,860m) → Kulikalon → Artuch.
Variations:
- One-way (Artuch → Vertical Alovaddin, ~18-25km).
- Add Mutnyi Lake day trip (murky glacial lake under Chimtarga Peak).
- Extend via Chukurak Lakes or connect to Haft Kul (Seven Lakes).
Best time: Late June–mid-September (snow-free passes; wildflowers peak July).
Access: Shared taxis/minibuses from Panjakent (easy from Dushanbe/Samarkand). Artuch Alplager is the main hub—store gear here if needed.
Wild camping is straightforward (flat spots abound); treat all water. Trails are unmarked but well-trodden—download offline maps/GPX.
A perfect intro to Tajik trekking: remote yet reachable, with jaw-dropping scenery and zero crowds compared to Pamirs. Combine with Haft Kul or longer Fann traverses for an epic adventure!