The Zerafshan Valley (also Zarafshan and  Zarafshon) of Tajikistan lies at a main intersection of the famous Silk Road, connecting the vast Central Asian Steppes with the Mountain Ranges of the Western Pamirs  and Alai Massive. Zerafshan’s rich history dates back more than 6000 years – from one of the earliest Bronze Age settlements at Sarazm to become the last refuge of Zoroastrian traditions. Zerafshan, which means “Gold Bearing River” in Tajik, is the main stream which crosses the valley and supplies its inhabitants with a most precious resource: water.

Today much of Tajikistan remains untouched by tourism.  The snow capped peaks of the Fann Mountains and deep blue lakes of the beautiful Zerafshan Valley are situated less than 50km from Samarkand but remain off the beaten track. Visitors are free to explore the natural wonders and ancient treasures undisturbed.

The renowned Fann Mountains with its many glacier fed rivers, waterfalls and lakes, offers some of the best trekking opportunities in Central Asia. Explore the famous Marguzor Lakes, the chain of 7 turquoise lakes in the Shing Valley on the western edge of the Fann Mountains and the Kulikolor Lakes at a height of 3000m in the stunning glacial basin. The Valley is home to over 200 species of bird and many small and large mammals, including large mountain sheep and goats and the endangered Snow Leopard. Visitors can see over 150 medicinal and flowering plants, many orchards, woodlands, juniper forests and Alpine meadows.

Take an unforgettable journey and enjoy the full splendor of the famous Tajik hospitality.

With support of international development agencies, the tourism sector in the Zerafshan Valley is today offering high quality services for individual and group travelers to Tajikistan. Through support of community based tourism, inhabitants of rural and mountainous areas in all three districts of the valley are beneficiaries. Zerafshan Region also supports the adoption of tourism practices which combine economical, social and environmental sustainability.

The Zerafshan Tourist Board ZTB, is the association representing Tour Operators and Tourism Service Providers (including community based providers) in Zerafshan. ZTB is based in Penjikent, close to the ancient sites of Ancient Penjikent and Sarazm. Penjikent is just ? Km from the border with Uzbekistan close to Samarkand.

Our members offer services for Trekking, Climbing, Tours, Excursions, Accommodation, Homestays, Camping, visits to Legendary Historical Towns along the Silk Road, Cultural Visits, Local Crafts, Ancient Cultural Sites, Transport, Transfers, Translators, Professional Local Guides, Equipment Hire, Visa & Permit services. Please contact us for any further information or follow the links to our members’ pages.

In Tajikistan, the country of High Mountains and Warm Hearts, there can be no warmer welcome than from the Communities of the Zerafshan Valley, where we look forward to welcoming you soon.

ZARAFSHAN - FACTS & FIGURES

Population: 294,915

7%  of the population is under 14: 40,403         

26 % of the population is engaged in agriculture

Area: 11,500 km2

Coordinates: 39°30′N 67°37′E

Transportation: Daily buses from Khojand and from Dushanbe