The Pamir high way is the one of the world’s highest altitude roads at more than 4000 meters, connecting cargo, animals and travelers from Tajikistan to Kyrgyzstan. This trip on one of the rooftops of the world was full of ups and downs. Though the scenery at times was monotonous, seeing herds of yaks and high altitude aquamarine lakes made the journey worth it. Though I have to admit, for me the highlight of this trip was from Khorog to Dushanbe, where we drove parallel to the border with Afghanistan. This was like staring into a forbidden world. Women in blue burqas and men in local garb could be seen going about their daily business, while unbeknownst to them, travelers across the river wished so hard to jump out of their vehicle and swim across the river to get to know a people that it seemed society had deemed forbidden to them…

Sadly, few people at present refer to Pakistan and Afghanistan as heaven. But during my time in Tajikistan's Wakhan Valley on the top of the old fort Yanchuu, with the setting sun as my backdrop, the valley and mountains bordering these nations could be called nothing less... than heaven...

I think as travelers, we set out to make that special connection would it be with friends, people met on the road, or with locals in the country we are visiting. While in the Bartang Valley in Tajikistan, some friends and I, with the recommendation of Lonely Planet, decided to go investigate the Geisev Valley. Since tourists did not often frequent it and I wanted to see the community-based tour approach in the area. P.E.C.T.A, (http://www.pecta.tj/en/index.php) an Aga Khan sponsored eco – tour association, was supposed to set up some guesthouses in the region. The trip was great; not only does Geisev have some beautiful lakes (three to be exact), but also the hospitality is unique to the area. Few guesthouses put in the time and effort these locals did. Whether in the food they prepared, explaining the local music and traditions, or just hanging out, it was the perfect experience and the best connection we had made the whole trip. So next time you aren't done, make a small stop in the paradise that is Geisev :-)

One of the major highlights of the Pamir Highway is the various valleys and villages that are just waiting to be explored. Since many of these valleys get such a low volume of tourists, no guidebook can prepare you for the adventure ahead. One of the most popular of these valleys for local and foreign visitors is the Wakhn Valley, located at the boarders of Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan. For me this place is perfect: the view of the mountains was breath taking, climbing to the fort challenged my fear of heights while allowing me to take in the history, and the beautiful B.B Fatima hot spring was the icing on the cake to a perfect adventure. The Pamirs - can you get any closer to heaven?