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Naw Shakh: Afghanistan's Crown Jewel

Conquer Afghanistan's highest peak, Naw Shakh, and discover a land of breathtaking beauty and unparalleled adventure in the heart of the Hindu Kush.

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Naw Shakh, also known as Noshaq or Nowshakh, is the highest peak in Afghanistan and the second highest in the Hindu Kush range, reaching 7,492 meters (24,580 feet) [1, 4]. This majestic mountain sits on the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan, offering a challenging climb and breathtaking views [1, 4].

A brief summary to Naw Shakh

Local tips

  • Acclimatize properly in the Wakhan Valley before attempting the ascent to avoid altitude sickness; spend several days at increasing altitudes [3].
  • Hire a local guide familiar with the terrain and local customs for a safer and more enriching experience; their expertise is invaluable [3].
  • Obtain necessary permits and permissions well in advance, coordinating with local authorities and trekking agencies [3].
  • Pack for extreme weather conditions, including warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy mountaineering boots, as temperatures can drop dramatically [3].
  • Respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and engage respectfully with the Wakhi and Kyrgyz communities [3].
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Getting There

  • Trekking/4x4 Transport

    The final approach to Naw Shakh typically begins in Ishkashim, a town accessible from Faizabad (Badakhshan's capital) via a combination of public transport and private 4x4 vehicles due to the rough road conditions [1, 3]. From Ishkashim, arrange for a 4x4 to take you towards Qazideh, the last village before the mountain [1, 3]. This journey can take a full day, depending on road conditions [1, 3]. It's essential to negotiate the price beforehand, typically around 6,000-8,000 AFN (approximately $70-$90 USD) for the round trip, including waiting time [1, 3]. From Qazideh, the trek to base camp begins, usually taking 2-3 days [1, 3].

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Discover more about Naw Shakh

Naw Shakh stands as Afghanistan's highest peak and a formidable natural border with Pakistan [1, 4]. The mountain's north and west faces reside within Afghanistan, while its south and east faces lie in Pakistan [1, 4]. Historically, Naw Shakh has drawn mountaineers from across the globe, captivated by the challenge of its ascent and the allure of its remote setting [1]. The first successful climb occurred in 1960 by a Japanese expedition [1, 4, 7]. The mountain's climbing history is interwoven with periods of political instability, particularly during the Soviet invasion and the Taliban regime, which severely restricted access [1, 3]. However, since the early 2000s, efforts have been made to revive tourism in the area, offering a chance to explore this hidden gem [1, 3]. The ascent to Naw Shakh is a serious undertaking, requiring significant mountaineering experience, physical fitness, and meticulous planning [1, 3]. The most common route follows the West Ridge, approaching from the Qadzi Deh Glacier in Afghanistan [1, 3]. While considered non-technical, this route still presents challenges due to the high altitude, unpredictable weather, and glacial terrain [1, 3]. Climbers typically establish a series of base camps and higher camps to acclimatize to the altitude and stage their summit attempt [1, 3]. The journey to the base of Naw Shakh is an adventure in itself [1]. The easiest access is generally considered to be from the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan [1, 3]. This remote region provides a window into traditional Afghan culture, with opportunities to interact with local communities and experience their way of life [1]. The trek through the Wakhan Valley showcases stunning landscapes [1, 3].

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