Adventure enthusiasts will find Rangkul and Shorkul Lakes in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan an extraordinary destination. These scenic lakes, accessible by 4-wheel drive, lie in a region where over 50% of the land is above 9,800 feet. The Pamirs, part of the historic Southern Silk Road route, have been inhabited for around 4,000 years despite harsh winters.
Rangkul Lake, also known as Ozero Rangkul, covers approximately 1,980 acres, while Shorkul Lake spans about 1,730 acres to the west. The natural Uziukdar’ia Channel connects these lakes. Rangkul Lake, a freshwater body replenished by snowmelt, stands in stark contrast to the brackish waters of Shorkul Lake. During spring, both lakes expand significantly. Small villages of local Tajik people, primarily Muslim and engaged in livestock herding during the summer, are near these lakes. The lakes freeze completely in winter, preventing fish habitation, but summer brings a variety of insects and vibrant rushes and marsh grasses. The breathtaking scenery includes blue waters, green grasses, and towering peaks with glaciers.
Rangkul village, at an altitude of 3808 meters, is predominantly inhabited by Kyrgyz people. The village offers basic guest houses for tourists and organizes camel tours, providing a unique cultural experience. Just below the village lies Rangkul Lake, sitting at 3784 meters above sea level, covering 7.8 km² with a maximum depth of 2.5 meters. The lake, fed by melting snow and glaciers, stays cool even in summer. The lake hosts osman fish, and a colony of wild geese can be observed on an island within the lake. The lake basin also features Saka mounds.
Shorkul Lake, connected to Rangkul Lake by the Uzyukdarya Channel, sits 120 meters below a cave atop a limestone rock called Chyraktash, or Stone Lamp. According to legend, a mysterious light in this cave serves as a beacon for travelers. In the 1920s, it was discovered that this glowing effect is due to moonlight reflecting off the cave’s lime-dust-coated arch on cloudless nights.