Wakhan National Park: Afghanistan's High-Altitude Haven
Discover Afghanistan's Wakhan National Park: Where Silk Road history meets stunning Pamir scenery and unique wildlife.
Wakhan National Park, established in 2014, is a remote and rugged protected area in northeastern Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor [5]. Bordered by Tajikistan, Pakistan, and China, it features stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences [5, 6].
A brief summary to Wakhan National Park
- 5QFC+9GG, Ptūkh, AF
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months (June-August) for the most accessible trekking conditions and milder weather [4, 6].
- Obtain necessary permits and register with local authorities in Ishkashim before venturing deeper into the Wakhan Corridor [6].
- Hire a local guide for navigating the terrain, arranging logistics, and ensuring a safe and enriching experience [6].
- Be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary gear, food, and supplies [6].
- Respect local customs and traditions when interacting with communities [6].
Getting There
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Driving
The most common starting point for accessing Wakhan National Park is from Faizabad, the capital of Badakhshan Province [5]. From Faizabad, drive east along the A76 towards Ishkashim, a journey of approximately 4-5 hours [5]. From Ishkashim, continue north towards Ptūkh, the village closest to the park entrance, about 50 kilometers away [5]. This final stretch requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the rough terrain [5]. Hiring a local driver in Ishkashim is recommended, with a round trip costing around 4,000-6,000 AFN [5]. Parking is limited near the village [5].
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Public Transport
From Faizabad, take a shared taxi or minibus to Ishkashim [5]. The cost is approximately 500 AFN per person, and the journey takes about 4-5 hours [5, 6]. Upon arrival in Ishkashim, hire a local 4x4 taxi to reach Wakhan National Park, as public transport does not directly serve the park [5]. Expect to pay around 1,500 AFN for a taxi from Ishkashim to the park, taking 1-2 hours [6].
Discover more about Wakhan National Park
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