After resting for an additional day in Khorog, I started my journey through the Wakhan valley. The valley follows the Panj River from Khorog to Langar. The Panj river makes a natural border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. The entire valley on either side of the river is dotted with picturesque villages, nestled in fertile plots of cultivated land and fruit orchards.
The first stop in the Wakhan Valley was Ishkoshim, located on the banks of the Panj River on the Afghan border, the town across the river in Afghanistan is called Ishkashim, similar name. Ishkoshim is located on a branch of the ancient Silk Road.
Tip: Almost all the time, Google map can’t find location or route in Wakhan valley (August 2019). Your best bet is Maps.me, download local maps before you arrive in Tajikistan.
The Panj river makes a natural border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan. Left side of the River is Afghanistan.Afghan village across the Panj river.Left side of the River is the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan.Left side of the River is the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan.Left side of the River is the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan.This little shared taxi took 7 hours to get us from Khorog to Ishkoshim (110 km), including initial wait time to get enough passengers, breaks and some other issues. Homes and religious places in Wakhan Valley use Ibex horns for decorationPamir Beauties: Many Pamiris are believed to be descendants of soldiers of Alexander the great.Pamiri PrincessPamir BeautiesEnjoying Tajik Beer after spending 7 hours on the road for 110 km ride.Hanis Guest House: Many tourists came to Ishkoshim to visit weekly Afghan market, which is being held most Saturdays near the town, on a strip of neutral ground, where the people of Tajikistan and Afghanistan come together to trade. The Saturday I was there, the market was closed because of a security threat (The Taliban problem) in Afghanistan. It was a big disappointment, but safety comes first..
Next stop in the Wakhan Valley is a small farming community of Darshai.
In May 2017, 23 days before I was going to complete 50 years, grabbed an opportunity and took an early retirement.. Picked up a backpack and traveling ever since.. Love to travel around the world, experience different culture, local cuisine & drinks .. and take pictures.. so far been to 108 countries and still counting...
Window on the World 