Two motorcyclists pass through Alichur, a small village on the route to the Pamir Highway. Known as the M41 during the Soviet era, this highway stretches over 1,200 km. Winding, steep, and offering spectacular scenery, it is one of the highest highways in the world. It is often the only route connecting the Autonomous Province of Gorno-Badakhshan to the rest of Tajikistan. Geographically isolated, this region has historically been inhabited by the Pamiris, who have been regularly and severely persecuted by the Tajik central government.

Photo credits : Simone Bergonzi (Italy, @simobergz)

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