Haft Kul

Haft Kul, the seven lakes, fill a valley in the western Fann Mountains south of Penjikent, formed where landslides dammed the stream at seven points, and each has a different colour, from turquoise through green to a deep blue, depending on depth and mineral content. A rough track climbs past them, getting worse as it goes; the upper lakes need a four-wheel drive or a walk. Villages along the valley take walkers in homestays.

What you actually see

• The seven lakes - each a different colour along one valley.
• The landslide dams - the rockfalls that created each lake in turn.
• The village homestays - families along the valley taking walkers.
• The Fann setting - the mountains rising steeply on both sides.

When to go

June to September is the season; snow closes the upper valley the rest of the year. Colours are strongest under midday sun. The track is worst after rain.

Honest expectations

The track deteriorates badly towards the upper lakes and ordinary cars should stop early. Facilities are homestays with basic conditions. Water levels and colours vary through the season.

Nearby

Penjikent is north, and the Fann Mountains run east.