Ishkashim
Ишкошим
The western gateway to the Wakhan Valley, where the Panj River makes a sharp turn east. Across the river lie the Afghan town of the same name and snowy peaks of the Hindu Kush.
Ishkashim is about 100 km south of Khorog, where the Panj River makes a large bend before the Wakhan Valley runs east along its banks. A bridge spans the Panj River here, leading to Afghanistan's Ishkashim. In the past, a Tajik-Afghan border market was held every week in a neutral zone beside the bridge, offering a rare chance to get close to Afghan traders. In recent years, frequent closures due to the situation in Afghanistan have made it necessary to confirm whether the market is open. The town has guesthouses, small shops, and a gas station, and it is one of the last places to resupply before entering the Wakhan Valley. Nearby, the Kaakha Fortress ruins and Garm Chashma hot springs can serve as stops along the way. Note: There are many checkpoints in border areas, so carry your passport and GBAO permit. Do not approach or photograph the border bridge or border posts.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Kaakha (Qahqaha) Fortress
- Darshai Gorge
- Garm Chashma Hot Springs
- Yamchun Fortress & Wakhan Valley
- Bibi Fatima Hot Springs
- Panj Valley Hindu Kush Views
- Mubarak Kadam House Museum (Yamg)
- Pamir Botanical Garden (Khorog)