SEVEN LAKES is the translation of Haft Kul, which flow down the Zeravshan Valley. While getting there means an overpriced jeep ride, it is a place that words do not do justice to.
Penjikent, a pre-Islamic city which grew in the 5th century is the jumping off point for Haft Kul (Seven Lakes) and the Fann Mountains. A closed border teases travellers wishing to come from nearby Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the great Timurid silk road city.
Ruins of ancient Penjikent (Panjakent), part of the Iranian Sogdian kingdom.
The road twists its way up from the first lake.
Like most of Tajikistan, life has changed little over the centuries in the Haft Kul area.
The Zeravshan valley has no shortage of water for farming, but winters must be incredibly harsh.
Marguzor is the vilage at the 5th or 6th lake, and has a homestay or two.
Flat land is a rare commodity, and houses are built on steep slopes.
There are virtually no challenging tracks on the walk to the top lakes, passing streams and villages.
A family picnic on one of the lower lakes.
The finished product. I ate with the men; wife with the women.
The higher lakes are about 3000m ASL, rising from these lower lakes at 1600m. I had a swim here. It was...crisp?
And around the bend, one lake would cascade into the next.
The better prepared and hardier adventurer can hike here from further afield places, like Lake Alaudin or Iskander lakes, a 3-5 day effort.
Village kids pass the time.
Of many incredible places in Tajikistan, Haft Kul stands out.
Gathering fruit in our guesthouse. Fresh fruit might not get everyone excited, but in central asia, it really is next level good.
Donkey is the main mode of transport around the area.
The coolest kid in Tajikistan. I hadn't noticed the leopard print duds before either!
Just another Haft Kul view.