Hiking to Upper Chayka, Varzob Gorge, Mountains of Tajikistan

Upper Chayka gorge is located 23 km along the Varzob highway and gets its name from the former pioneer camp Chayka. The designation of upper or lower simply depends on how you plan to move along the gorge, i.e. downwards or upwards, and we chose Upper Chayka.

How to Protect Your Hands, Head, and Feet on a Mountain Hike

Keeping Your Hands Warm
Cold hands are not just uncomfortable but also dangerous, especially in wilderness settings. Keeping your hands warm is as challenging as keeping your feet warm. While we've already discussed the importance of good socks, good gloves are no less critical in freezing weather.

Photos of Dushanbe in the 1960s and the same places in 2015

By chance, I came across some photographs of Dushanbe from the 1960s. I decided to walk around the same places and take photos from the same angles, if possible. I thought that many people, especially those who have left Tajikistan for various reasons, would find this interesting. I remember myself searching for photos of Dushanbe online when I was in Russia - everything was interesting to see what it looks like now.

Hiking in Odzhuk Gorge for Epiphany, Varzob, mountains of Tajikistan

The tradition of Epiphany bathing dates back to ancient times. Of course, if you have the opportunity to bathe in the holy Jordan River (in Israel) on Epiphany, do not miss it. However, you can bathe on Epiphany in any lake, river, or body of water. It is preferable for the ice hole to be in the form of a cross. But there are no strict rules for how to bathe on Epiphany. In other words, a mountain river, in our case, is perfect.

How to Choose Clothing for a Mountain Hike

Choosing the right clothing for a hike is not just a matter of comfort—it's a matter of safety, especially in the mountains where weather can change in minutes. The universal formula for success is simple: your clothing should protect you from cold, wind, snow, and rain, while also allowing freedom of movement and preventing overheating. Let's break down how to build the perfect wardrobe for a mountain adventure.

Hiking to the 21st kilometer of the Varzob Gorge, mountains of Tajikistan

The 21st kilometer gorge is probably one of the most visited gorges in the Varzob area, at least it used to be. It starts, as the name suggests, at the 21st kilometer of the Varzob highway and stretches for about half a day's journey until it reaches a waterfall. It's very convenient for a day hike. But that's in the summer, and today I don't think we'll make it to the waterfall, but nevertheless, we'll wander around...

Hiking Boots: How to Choose the Right Pair and Care for Them

A mountain hike is always an exciting adventure. But as with any serious endeavor, preparation is key. Choosing the right gear affects not only your comfort but also your safety. Footwear is at the top of this list. In this article, I'll share tips on how to choose the right hiking boots and how to care for them so they last long and never let you down on the trail.

Winter hike in the Odjuk gorge, Varzob, mountains of Tajikistan

The Odjuk gorge, also known as the Canyon of 7 Bridges, is quite extensive, and lovers of long hikes can walk through it all the way to the alpine meadows. Anywhere in the canyon, you will find a cozy spot for resting and camping. I found this description online. It is quite easy to get there from Dushanbe; there are minibusses going to the village of Varzob from the Vodonasosnaya station, and the cost is around 50 cents. You need to get off at the supermarket. I left Dushanbe at around 8 in the morning and arrived at the supermarket at 8:30. The temperature in the city was -1°C, while in the canyon, it was around -4°C to -5°C. The sky was clear, and there was almost no wind, which means the weather was perfect for hiking.

How Temperature Conditions in the Mountains Affect a Person on a Hike

Mountain hiking is an exciting but technically challenging adventure. It requires not only physical endurance but also an understanding of how the body reacts to extreme temperature fluctuations. In this article, we will explore the types of temperature conditions found in the mountains, how they affect human health, and provide safety recommendations.

Javonon Lake, formerly Komsomolskoye Lake, Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Took a walk around the former Komsomolskoye Lake, now known as Youth Lake or Javonon. I had no specific goals, just wanted to take a walk and brought my camera just in case. Here are some photos I took, and not just for this blog post. Bilbo Baggins was right: 'It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.'