Yashil-Kul

The Pamir Highway


Much bigger but arguably less photogenic than neighbouring Balun-Kul, 3734m Yashil-Kul (Яшилькуль) means 'green lake'. This is surprising because it is in fact bright blue, framed by ochre-coloured semi-arid slopes.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Pamir Highway attractions

1. Balun-Kul

3.8 MILES

Mirrorlike lake Bulun-Kul (3737m) looks magnificent in the morning light, reflecting the mineral streaks of a low, multicoloured ridge opposite. The water…

2. Hargush Pass

19.77 MILES

The road from the Wakhan Valley rejoins the Pamir Hwy via the beautiful Hargus Pass. At 4344m and the highest of the three passes around Alichur, it is…

3. Koi-Tezek Pass

19.79 MILES

The potholed Koi-Tezek Pass (4272m) leads into lunar-like, high-altitude desert scenery to the east, framed by a series of snowy if relatively…

4. Jelondy Hot Springs

21.11 MILES

These springs lie alongside the Pamir Hwy in Jelondy. A Soviet-era hotel offers basic accommodation and a spa of sorts.