Old Panjakent -The archaeological site of the ruins of old Panjakent- a walled inter-city which stood 2500-years ago - was once a Sogdian trading city on the Silk Road. Today only ruins are left owing to the fact that the main construction material was clay-bricks. Often referred to as âThe Pompeii of Central Asiaâ, it is well worth a visit. Duplicates of old Sogdian art are exposed in the nearby museum. The director will also take you on a tour, which will open your eyes to the interesting details which will normally escape the laymen's eye.If 2500 years doesnât seem to suffice, 20km further, one may find the oldest settlement in all Central Asia â Sarazm. The name Sarazm or Sari Zamin aptly means âthe beginning of the worldâ for this site which is more than 5500 years old. More than 6000 people used to live here making it the oldest city in Central Asia. Sarazm is currently subject to an UNESCO assessment for potential inclusion into the world heritage list. The nearby museum shows archaeological finds including a picture of the discovered skeleton of the multi-millennia princess of Sarazm adorned with her impressive jewellery. The original is at display in the capital Dushanbe.
The seven pearls of the Shing - A string of seven lakes, each with its particular color and flora embedded in an impressive mountain scenery is a must-see in the Zeravshan valley. The lowest lake is a 1,5 hour drive from Panjakent and the point of departure for numerous trekking routes. If your luggage is heavy, you will find porter donkeys in the villages. During the high season it might be prudent though to arrange donkeys beforehand through a travel agency, as the animals are still used by farmers in their daily work.
