Markansu Valley
Водии Маркансу
A barren high-altitude valley known as the 'Valley of Death,' with almost no vegetation and frequent wind and sandstorms. On clear days, you can see the snowy peaks of Lenin Peak in the distance.
Markansu, meaning 'water of death,' lies south of Kyzyl-Art Pass and north of Lake Karakul, at an average elevation of about 4,000 meters. It is one of the most desolate areas of the Pamir. The wide valley has almost no vegetation or inhabitants, strong winds and dust storms often rise in the afternoon, and winters are extremely cold. The Pamir Highway crosses the valley, and on clear days you can look west toward Lenin Peak in the Outer Alay Range and its surrounding snow peaks. Along the way you may see abandoned Soviet-era buildings and wild argali sheep. There are no supplies in the valley, so vehicles must be in good condition with ample fuel and water. Cyclists should not enter during windy, dusty weather.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Kyzyl-Art Pass
- Karakul Lake (Tajikistan)
- Karakul Village
- Karakul Lake Salt Shore
- Lenin Peak View
- Ak-Baital Pass