Castle Karon

Castle Karon is an archaeological site with fortress and temple ruins perched on a steep cliff along the Pamir Highway. The remains reveal multiple ancient temple structures, administrative buildings, and fortification works positioned above the borderlands where Tajikistan meets Afghanistan.

The settlement was established around 4000 years ago as a Zoroastrian religious center with administrative functions. Archaeological excavations beginning in 2012 uncovered the remains of this fortress complex and its associated structures.

The ruins contain remnants of temples built for Zoroastrian worship, standing as evidence of an ancient spiritual center. These structures reveal how people once gathered at this location to practice their religious traditions.

Access to the ruins involves steep mountain tracks with tight switchbacks, so sturdy footwear and good balance are essential. Climbing over the site is demanding, and visitors should be physically fit and comfortable with heights.

Among the findings from excavations were fragments of the Avesta, the sacred text of Zoroastrianism, preserved at this location. This reveals how important this site was for the transmission and preservation of this ancient faith.