The Murghab district of Tajikistan sits high in the Pamir Mountains, a range sometimes referred to as the Roof of the World. Tourists often visit in summer to see the pristine landscapes and wildlife like the Marco Polo sheep, but few outsiders venture here during the harsh winter. But Ubaidylda Shaimov, who was born here and now lives in Kyrgyzstan, was undeterred by the cold weather when he went to visit the remote village of Bash-Gumboz, near the Afghan border. Shaimov filed these photographs of his former home high in the mountains.
Winter In Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains
The Murghab district of Tajikistan sits high in the Pamir Mountains, a range sometimes referred to as the Roof of the World. Tourists often visit in summer to see the pristine landscapes and wildlife like the Marco Polo sheep, but few outsiders venture here during the harsh winter. But Ubaidylda Shaimov, who was born here and now lives in Kyrgyzstan, was undeterred by the cold weather when he went to visit the remote village of Bash-Gumboz, near the Afghan border. Shaimov filed these photographs of his former home high in the mountains.
1
The village of Bash-Gumboz. The round structure was built by the Soviet Air Defense Forces and is now used as a sports facility for the local school.
2
Students of a local boarding school, where the photographer taught for eight years
3
Palmira, a language teacher, looks out of a window before her wedding.
4
A collection of sheep ankle bones, which are rolled like dice in a traditional nomadic game. During the long winter, men in the Murghab district spend many hours playing ankle bones. The game is also played during weddings and other celebrations.