Hazret Sultan: The Sacred Mountain of Gissar

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Hazret Sultan: The Sacred Mountain of Gissar

Nestled in the Gissar Mountains along the border of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, Hazret Sultan stands as a revered peak, soaring to an elevation of 4,083 meters above sea level, according to the most reliable topographic maps from the Soviet Union. Some climbers have recorded heights of 4,030 meters and 4,065 meters, with discrepancies likely arising from variations in altimeters, GPS devices, and the abrupt changes in atmospheric conditions experienced at the summit on different days. Unfortunately, a geographical confusion exists, as many online sources and even school textbooks in Uzbekistan mistakenly refer to a peak located 52 kilometers to the east, known as the former peak of the XXII Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, as Hazret Sultan, claiming it stands at 4,643 meters and is the highest point in Uzbekistan.

Hazret Sultan, at 4,083 meters, is the most venerated sanctuary in the region. Thousands of pilgrims, both men and women, journey from all corners of Uzbekistan and neighboring Tajikistan to seek solace and solutions to their problems through prayer at this sacred site. The mountain’s mystical status is steeped in a complex legend tied to the religious conflicts during the early formation of Islam in the 7th century, particularly the tragic fate of Hussein, the son of Imam and Caliph Ali, who was both a cousin and companion of the Prophet Muhammad.

In addition to connecting with this profound legend, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear rivers. The mountain is situated within the Gissar Nature Reserve, and access to this area is permitted for pilgrims and tourists only one month a year, from July 20 to August 20, through a special permit.

The ascent to the summit begins from a small clearing at the pilgrim’s camp. A well-trodden and marked trail leads the way to the peak. Over a distance of 8 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 1,100 meters, hikers typically complete the trek in 3 to 6 hours. The descent generally takes between 2 to 4 hours. Pilgrims often set out from the camp at midnight to reach the summit in time for the first prayer and to witness the sunrise. However, not all pilgrims are granted passage to the top; many are compelled to return to the camp, unable to overcome the challenges of the ascent.

While the trail is relatively accessible to anyone in good health, the considerable altitude can induce symptoms of altitude sickness, and strong winds can be encountered above 3,700 meters. Hikers may also face rain, hail, or snow. During thunderstorms at the summit, there is a risk of lightning strikes.

Despite the challenges and trials, the reward for any traveler is the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains—a breathtaking sight that makes the journey to Hazret Sultan a truly memorable pilgrimage.