Fann Mountains

Kulikalon Trek

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Duration 4 days
Distance 24 km
Max. altitude 3800 meters
Camping 2 nights
Homestay 1 night
Difficulty
Difficulty icon Moderate
Price
From €539 $606 / person
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Discover the highlights of the Fann Mountains

The Kulikalon Trek is ideal as a short get-away from Dushanbe to see the highlights of the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan. The start point of the trek is the village of Artuch. After visiting Chukurak Lake, the trek first leads to the paradisiacal Kulikalon plateau. Kulikalon features several beautiful lakes and is ideally suited for camping. After spending the night in tents on the shore one of the Kulikalon lakes, the trek continues over a 3800 meter high pass to reach the marvelous Alauddin Lake. This lake is together with its surroundings one of the most impressive places in the Fann Mountains. On the way back to Dushanbe, we also visit Iskanderkul, which is another iconic lake in the Fann Mountains. The trek is not to be underestimated despite its relatively short length, as considerable height differences need to be overcome.

Highlights

Kulikalon Plateau
Alauddin Lake
Best of the Fann Mountains
Wild camping under the stars
Cross mountain passes up to 3800 meters high

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Map and Profile

Itinerary

The day-to-day itinerary gives a detailed overview of the hiking and highlights planned for each stage of the trek. The itinerary has been carefully tested and tried. Although it rarely happens, unforeseen circumstances can force us to make (minor) adaptations to the schedule, even during the trek. For example, weather and road conditions may change rapidly while trekking and make certain parts of the route less passable. Flexibility is indispensable when traveling and hiking through the rugged lands of Tajikistan.

Flag of Tajikistan
Day 1 – Artuch and Chukurak Lake
4 km
Departure from Dushanbe in the morning. Pick up from your desired location in Dushanbe. The drive to the start of the trek in Artuch takes about 5 hours. On the way you already get the first scenic views of the Fann mountains and the Zerafshan Valley. We arrive at the lodge in the afternoon. The final part of the day can be used for exploring the surroundings or relaxing in preparation for the next day. The nicest option is to go to Chukurak Lake. The hike to visit this picturesque place takes about two hours. The brave can even take a refreshing swim in the lake.
Day 2 – Kulikalon Plateau
9 km
Setting off from the guest house (2150 m), the trail steadily ascends along the Urech river. After a steep climb with a vertical ascent of 700 meters in total, we reach the large Kulikalon plateau at an altitude of 2850 meters. Several lakes are scattered across the plateau, which itself is enclosed between towering cliffs. Kulikalon is the name of the biggest lake and presents perfects camping spots along its shores. The plateau offers great opportunities for short hikes for those who still have energy to go exploring in the afternoon. At the end of the day, we set up camp and prepare to spend the night under the stars.
Day 3 – Crossing Alauddin Pass
11 km
After packing our equipment, we set course to the foot of Alauddin Pass. The walk is first flat over the Kulikalon plateau along the shores of several smaller lakes, including Kulisiyoh, Bibijonat and Dushokha. Climbing up the Alauddin mountain pass is the most difficult part of the trek. The top of the pass is with 3780 meters the highest point. The pass offers great views of Kulikalon on one side. Towards the other side, Lake Alauddin appears as a small spot in the valley about 1000 vertical meters below. The descent to Alauddin Lake is easygoing. After coming all the way down, we set up camp to spend the night at the shore of the lake.
Day 4 – Iskanderkul and return to Dushanbe
The morning can be used to explore Alauddin Lake and its surroundings. Alauddin Lake is one of the most impressive places in the Fann Mountains, with several other lakes of intense blue hues scattered nearby. In the afternoon, we head back to Dushanbe, a drive of about 4 hours. On the way back, we make a short detour to Iskanderkul Lake to enjoy views of this beautiful mountain lake and its surrounding scenery.

Sneak peek

Hiker walking over a rocky field up to a mountain pass in Fann Mountains
Tent on the banks of the major Kulikalon Lake in Tajikistan with huge mountains in the background
View over Alauddin Lake with mountains in background
Houses surrounded by mountains at Vertical Alauddin with flags floating in the wind and blue skies
Multiple lakes on the Kulikalon Plateau in Tajikistan
Two hikers walking on a trail towards the Kulikalon plateau
Woman sitting on a rock next to the crystal-clear Dushokha Lake
Kulikalon Lake with rock cliff in the background

Included in the price

  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Private transport (pick-up/drop-off at your desired location in Dushanbe)
  • Accommodation - Homestays and standard hotels/hostels
  • Food (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • First aid supplies and water purification tablets/filters
  • Cook service (dedicated cook)
  • Camp facilities, including toilet tent, kitchen tent and cooking/eating utensils
  • Baggage transport during the trek up to ±20 kg/person
  • Any permit (except tourist visa for Tajikistan)
  • Light-weight trekking tents and down sleeping bags are available for rent

Not included in the price

  • Accommodation in Dushanbe before and after the trek
  • Staff tips

Check out the practical info page to see what we recommend you to bring yourself

Practical Info Page

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All necessary camping equipment can be provided. Trekking accessible for everyone.

Flexible Travel

Treks are adaptable to your personal needs regarding food, pick-up/drop-offs, and your fitness level.