Description
Along the shared borders of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and China lie the Pamir-Alai mountain range. While this area does not offer much in the way of technical routes, it does provide a great area for hiking and mountaineering in remote mountain ranges that see very little traffic. The highest peak in the region is peak Achiktash, the peak is a popular destination point for climbers wanting a chance to hike into altitude without technical challenges.
Getting there/services
Base camp of Achiktash (3500m) is a day’s drive from the southern city of Osh. It is possible to drive directly to a grassy meadow at the base of the peak. There are several companies that set up base camps each season and provide services such as meals and tent lodging.
Highlights
Peak Achiktash’s calling card is the non-technical walk into high altitude. From base camp it is a straightforward climb to the summit, with high camps at 4000m, 5300m, 6100m and 6400m. The most difficult components of this climb are the altitude and strong wind. In this same region are the Zaalayskiy and Khurumdy ranges that still offer solitudes and most likely virgin peaks.
Seasons
The season begins in early July and goes through the end of August.