the globe says
Tajikistan
Fly to Dushanbe, get the GBAO permit with your e-visa, then share a 4x4 for the two-day ride along the Afghan border into the Pamirs.
Homestays the whole way — the Pamiri house itself, with its five pillars and skylight, is sacred architecture.
The second-highest highway on Earth: turquoise rivers with Afghanistan across the water, Ismaili villages of legendary warmth, hot springs, and 7,000-meter walls.
Walk Khorog's botanical garden — the world's second-highest — then arrange the Wakhan valley loop with other travelers at the Pamir Lodge.
June to September
Rahmat — thank you; and accept every cup of shir choy offered.
The Lost Heart of Asia by Colin Thubron — Central Asia right after the Soviet fall.
The Wakhan Valley loop — Afghanistan across the river, Buddhist stupas, hot springs.
This is remote, high-altitude travel with real logistics — acclimatize, carry cash for the entire route, and check GBAO permit status before flying.