Pamir Mountains Trek, Lenin and Yukhin Peak

In the morning, we depart from Osh and head toward Kozho-Kelen village. The road winds through stunning scenery, including towering mountains, lush meadows, blooming flower fields, and traditional shepherd camps.

Along the way, we stop at Papan Reservoir, an important water source for Osh and for irrigation in agricultural areas of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

The journey covers about 100 km and takes around 3.5 hours. The route follows the Ak-Buura River, with striking emerald-colored mountains rising on both sides of the road.

Upon arrival in Kozho-Kelen (2,230 m), we are welcomed by a local family at a guest house, where we settle in and relax. Lunch is provided in lunch boxes.

After lunch, we set off on an acclimatization hike lasting 2–3 hours to the Blue Grotto and a nearby waterfall. The trail passes through narrow mountain canyons with unusual rock formations and cliffs of remarkable colors.

In the evening, we return to the guest house for dinner and rest.

After breakfast, we continue into the upper part of the gorge. The trail follows a lively mountain river in the direction of Dzhiptyk Pass.

This extraordinary landscape captures the true spirit of a Kyrgyz jailoo — a vast mountain valley where snow-covered peaks rise dramatically on the horizon.

The surroundings are especially beautiful, with crisp mountain air, tall fir trees, junipers, and unique patterns carved into the rocks, creating a scene that is hard to forget.

By evening, we arrive at the tent camp, where dinner and an overnight stay under the stars await us.

Today we cross Dzhiptyk Pass (4,185 m) and discover the breathtaking Alay Valley.

The route begins with a gentle climb across scenic alpine meadows along the mountainside. It then becomes more demanding as we ascend a steep scree slope to the pass.

From the top, an unforgettable panorama opens before us: the vast Alay Valley stretches below, while the mighty Pamirs rise in the distance. If the weather is clear, we may also see the legendary Lenin Peak and the impressive summits of the Zaalay Range.

The ascent takes about 4–5 hours, but the views make every step worthwhile.

After lunch, we descend along the old, now abandoned road toward the gorge and the well-known Rock Gates, where our vehicle will be waiting.

From there, we transfer to comfortable Achyk-Tash Base Camp (3,600 m), where dinner and a well-earned rest await before the next stage of the journey.

Today’s acclimatization hike takes us to the ridge of nearby Petrovsky Peak (4,200 m). From there, we enjoy sweeping views of the valley and the scenic Achyk-Tash gorge below.

Those who prefer a gentler day may remain at base camp to rest, prepare, and get ready for the ascent to Camp 1.

In the evening, we have dinner and spend the night in tents at base camp.

After breakfast, we begin the approach to Camp 1 via Traveler’s Pass (4,150 m). The climb to the pass usually takes 1–1.5 hours along a well-defined trail.

From the pass, there are excellent views of Lenin Peak and the Lenin Glacier. Snow cornices are sometimes visible, adding a dramatic touch to the landscape.

We then descend to the left moraine of the glacier and continue uphill for about three more hours. Along the way, we carefully cross a mountain river before following the moraine to Camp 1.

In the evening, we enjoy dinner and rest in the tents of Camp 1.

Today we undertake an exciting acclimatization climb to scenic Yukhin Peak (5,130 m). It is a great opportunity to test our endurance while taking in spectacular views in every direction.

The classic route does not involve steep rock or ice climbing, so it requires no special technical equipment or advanced experience.

From the summit, we are rewarded with a magnificent panorama of the north face of Lenin Peak and the wide expanse of the Alay Valley below.

After enjoying the summit views, we return to Camp 1 for rest and preparation for the next stage. Dinner and overnight stay follow in the Camp 1 tents.

After breakfast, we descend back to familiar Achyk-Tash Base Camp. The route begins with a short ascent, followed by about four hours of steady downhill travel along scenic mountain paths.

Once back at camp, there is time to rest and take a shower, which is especially refreshing after the day’s journey.

In the evening, we celebrate the successful completion of the route with a festive dinner.

Today we leave the mountains and return to Osh. Upon arrival in the southern capital, we check into a comfortable hotel and enjoy lunch.

The rest of the day is free for exploring the city, visiting the bazaar and local shops, or simply relaxing.