Ismoil Somoni Peak rises to 7,495 metres in Tajikistan, Central Asia. It is the highest point in the country and, by height, the tallest mountain in the former Soviet Union. The peak is named after Ismoil Somoni, the founder of the Samanid dynasty, and it stands in the remote Pamir Mountains.
What kind of visit this is
For most people, the peak is something to admire from afar rather than a place to stand on. It is among the world's most demanding mountaineering objectives, and climbing it calls for serious technical skill, experience at altitude and careful planning. A trip here is usually built around an expedition, with a guide and the right equipment, rather than a casual day outing.
Getting a sense of the area
The peak lies in the Pamirs, a region of high ranges, broad valleys and wide skies. Travellers who come for the mountains often combine their time with the wider landscape, which is sparsely populated and dramatic in scale. Visitors should expect remote conditions, where services are limited and weather can change quickly.
If you are considering a visit, think first about whether you are an experienced high-altitude climber or someone who wants to see the mountains and their surroundings. The first is a demanding undertaking; the second calls for a more modest, carefully arranged trip with local support.