Shrouded in myths and mysteries, the highlands of the Pamir Mountains seem to hold answers to many of the universe’s deepest questions. These ancient stories, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into the wisdom, beliefs, and imagination of the people who have called this rugged terrain home.
Pamiri Wisdom
A Sufi sage from the Pamirs, named Khodja Tufa, was once asked why he allowed people to praise him. He responded with profound insight: “We cannot control those who exalt us, nor those who attack us. Their actions are driven by their own opinions, which are beyond our influence. What matters more are those who neither flatter us nor criticize us, for they are our equals. Ironically, we often overlook such individuals, focusing instead on those who either praise or oppose us. Choosing the superficial over the truly important is not only banal but futile. I follow the teachings of the wise Zilzilawi, who said, ‘When fools praise me, I encourage them. When they reach the height of their foolishness, they may realize that excess is absurd. At the same time, those who detest flattery may avoid me, thinking I crave their praise. If they judge so superficially, I must avoid them, for I cannot help them.’ The wisest way to rid oneself of anything is to ensure it chooses to avoid you.”
A Dialogue of Eternity
An ancient legend tells of three wandering dervishes, as old as the mountains themselves, who sometimes appear in the old cemeteries, known as mazars, of the Pamirs. They sit by the entrance and discuss the sights and experiences of their pilgrimages to great sacred sites. Blessed is the traveler who encounters them and receives their blessing.
At the Blessed Gates
Darvaz, known as the «Gateway to the Pamirs,» is a crossroads of many ancient roads. One such forgotten route runs through the Eagle’s Collar Pass, or Gardani Kaftar, leading to the sacred shrine of Hazrat-Alloudin. Few pilgrims heading to this holy site know that these mountains hold the memory of the passing shroud of Ishoni Domullo Qurbona, one of the revered saints of the Pamirs.
A Night by Lake Pairon: The Abode of Fairies
Hidden among the peaks of Kara-Tag lies a lake with azure waters. If you find yourself here, don’t be surprised if you hear ethereal voices of maidens from nowhere. According to legend, a brave soul who dares to stay on the shore overnight, without uttering a word, will be rewarded with a kiss from a peri, a fairy, rising from the inky depths. Treat the island in the middle of the lake with respect, for it is said that the lord of the local mountains and forests, a half-beast, half-human creature known as the Ghoul, roams among the tall grasses. Those who dare to spend the night on the island may witness the extraordinary—balls of light rising from the lake’s surface, illuminating the night before disappearing into the mountain peaks, carrying with them unknown secrets.
The Golden City
Legends speak of a beautiful Indian city that once stood in the Alichur Valley, ruled by King Barbar. Every day, caravans laden with goods passed through its gates. The residents of the Golden City rejoiced in their wealth, cherished what they had, and were blessed with eternal life. However, over time, they forgot to thank the Creator. As punishment, they were struck by a divine scourge— the giant Hudam, who destroyed all the inhabitants, and the magnificent buildings and treasures were consumed by heavenly fire. The only remnants of this tale are found in the sacred songs of the Pamiris, known as «mado.» According to one version, the overbearing subjects of King Barbar were punished by the Prophet’s son-in-law, Ali.
The Mystic Shoi-Tirandoz
An enormous rock looms over the village of Roshtkala, known as the «Shooter’s Peak» or Shoi-Tirandoz. This peak is said to be one of the celestial guardians of the Pamirs, called Gaibi. Shoi-Tirandoz appoints the rulers of this world. Once every 170 years, he shoots an arrow at a ruler, and if it strikes a coward, a fool, or a deceiver, their spirit falls into «duzzakh»—hell. But if it hits a noble soul, their spirit ascends to «bihisht»—paradise.
Inaccessible Treasures
The heart of the Earth, the Pamirs, has witnessed the convergence of countless beliefs, cultures, and peoples. The mountains have seen the phalanxes of Alexander the Great, known here as Iskander Zulqarnain, the hordes of Genghis Khan, the cavalry of Babur, and the valiant warriors of Timur. These mountains gave birth to Zoroaster and the fire-worshippers, as well as the mysterious Ismailis. The Pamirs are home to many Islamic holy sites, including the mazars of great saints.
However, elders tell stories that the first inhabitants of these mountains were mighty giants known as Rephaim. Occasionally, when one loses their way, they might stumble upon a mysterious temple carved from stone by these prehistoric giants. Here, one’s spirit is overcome with awe, and the instinct is to flee. But then, a glimmer of gold or rubies may catch the eye on the stones. Do not turn back, for these treasures do not belong to the world of humans.