15 Photos From Central Asia That Will Inspire You to Visit

Photos by Goats on the Road

Central Asia is one of the few off-track travel destinations remaining on our planet. This area of the world was once a part of the former Soviet Union, but since the collapse of the USSR in 1991, the 'Stan countries (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan) became independent nations. This jigsaw-looking part of the map is a playground for adventure junkies, culture seekers and history buffs.

We still reminisce about our independent travels in Central Asia. Western influence has barely reached these lands — get here before things change...

The village of Langar is located in the Wakhan Valley in Tajikistan. In my opinion, it's one of the most beautiful places along the Pamir Highway. If you arrive during harvest season, you'll see villagers working hard in the fields. The views of the mountains and valley are spectacular.

READ MORE: Arslanbob: Kyrgyzstan's Magical Mountain Village

Just outside of the village of Murghab in Tajikistan you'll find incredible mountains, rivers and fields. Plus, there's an excellent hot spring!

Ashgabat is the capital city of Turkmenistan, and it's one of the strangest places we've ever been. Blindingly white, polished marble buildings are found all around the city. Even though there are many buildings, there are hardly any people on the streets. It's an eerie place.

High in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan is Lake Ala-Kul. You can do a trek from Karakol to Altan Arashan in two days, with the highest point at around 12,000 feet. Even though this is one of the most grueling treks we've ever done, I highly recommend this trip.

Friendly residents of the village of Arslanbob in Kyrgyzstan. Everyone that we met during our travels in this region was hospitable and welcoming.

The Registan (meaning: Sandy Desert/Place in Persian) is an incredible feat of architecture! You can find this square in the city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan. There are three madrasas (Islamic schools) and a mausoleum. This truly is an awe-inspiring site.

The fresh bread in Central Asia is delicious, and the shape is unlike anywhere else.

The sun setting over a mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Watching this scene unfold while sipping on tea is the perfect end to the day

Depending on which time of the year you visit, you may find fresh berries for sale at the markets and on the streets of Almaty! Kazakhstan is so much more than Borat, trust me.

Meeting strangers on the train, who then become friends, is typical in this region. Great company, dried fish and beer ... what more could you want?

Along the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, Kengshiber is nothing more than one house and a couple of yurts. The trekking around here is amazing and if you're lucky, you might spot a Marco Polo Sheep.

Yurts are very common in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Make sure to stay in a homestay yurt, or one for tourists during your trip.

Inquisitive children laughing in the walnut forest of Arslanbob in Kyrgyzstan.

READ MORE: Central Asia: The Next Frontier of Travel

Trekking around the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. This is such a peaceful area. The nature here is incredible.

The Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand. As you can probably tell, this mosque is best seen at night.

Have you ever traveled to Central Asia? What were your impressions of the region?

Source: 15 Photos From Central Asia That Will Inspire You to Visit