Shirkent National Park

Shirkent National Park is a real hidden gem and is one of my favourite places to hike anywhere in Tajikistan. The landscapes here are different to the rest of the country. Lower altitudes and good access make this a convenient place to hike and it’s usually a little warmer, making it ideal at the very start or end of the hiking season. Shirkent is known for its dinosaur footprints, the bizarre rock formations of the enormous Shirkent Barrier, and is home to all sorts of interesting wildlife including bears, wild boars, marmots and ibex.