Murghab Travel Guide: Exploring Tajikistan’s Eastern Pamir (Updated for 2026)
Murghab (also spelled Murgab) sits at 3,650 meters in Tajikistan’s rugged Eastern Pamir, a remote frontier town that grew from a 1890s Russian outpost called Pamirskiy Post. Mostly ethnic Kyrgyz residents inhabit this high-altitude plateau, where harsh conditions dominate.
Travelers on the Pamir Highway (M41) between Osh (Kyrgyzstan) and Khorog often stop here. It also serves those crossing from China via Qolma Pass.
Key 2025-2026 Updates: The Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border, including Kyzyl-Art Pass, reopened fully in 2025 after years of closure. No special permits needed beyond standard GBAO for the Pamir region. Shared transport and goods flow improved, easing past shortages. Qolma Pass to China remains open (closed weekends), but requires organized transport—no public options.
Things to Do in Murghab
The town offers limited attractions but unique high-altitude charm.
- Murghab Bazaar — Explore this quirky market of decorated shipping containers selling Chinese goods, local handicrafts (like Pamiri socks), and meats in metal yurts. Prices run higher due to remoteness.
- Lenin Statue → Spot the prominent white statue on the town’s southern edge—a Soviet remnant.
- Joma Mosque — Visit this small mosque below town, especially lively on Fridays.
- Yak Milk Ice Cream — Try this treat from a container shop near the Megafon store (look for the wicker fence). Bowls cost around 5 TJS—mildly different from regular ice cream.
Things to Do Around Murghab
The real highlights lie in nearby valleys and passes—arrange day trips or treks via bazaar drivers or guesthouses.
North of Murghab:
- Pshart Valley: Features colorful mineral-streaked mountains; possible 1-2 day trek over Gumbezkul Pass to Madiyan Valley.
- Rangkul: Offers high-altitude lakes, dunes, yurt stays, and camel treks.
- Ak Baital Pass (4,655m): Highest Pamir Highway point; watch for Marco Polo sheep.
- Karakul Lake: Tajikistan’s largest meteor-impact lake with a shoreside village—worth an overnight.
South/East:
- Madiyan Valley hot springs, Ak Suu Valley sights (tombs, meteor crater), Shaimak (views into China/Afghanistan/Pakistan), and more like Jarty Gumbez (Marco Polo sheep area).
Where to Stay
Options remain limited but improved with border reopening.
- East Pamir Eco Tour Guesthouse — Top choice with tasty food and English-speaking hosts (~170 TJS including meals).
- Erali Guesthouse — Family feel and views (~140 TJS).
- Pamir Hotel — Central on Lenin Street; dorms from ~100 TJS.
- Tulfabek Homestay — Budget option (~45 TJS).
Book ahead in peak season (June-September).
Getting To/From Murghab
- To/From Kyrgyzstan (Osh via Karakul/Kyzyl-Art) → Shared taxis now run regularly post-2025 reopening (~200-250 TJS).
- To/From Khorog → Morning shared taxis (~120 TJS); arrange pickup.
- To China (Qolma Pass) → Private/organized transport only.
- Side Trips → Shared rides or hires from bazaar (e.g., Rangkul ~25 TJS).
Tips: Acclimatize to altitude—Murghab is high! Carry cash (Somoni); ATMs scarce. GBAO permit required for region (eVisa or on arrival).
Murghab delivers raw Pamir beauty and isolation. Pair it with a full Pamir Highway journey for an unforgettable adventure. Safe travels!