If ur in Iran going towards Mongolia. First decision I guess would be if you want to consider Pakistan (heard it could be nice, but maybe safety issues). If not Pakistan (or Afghanistan) you have to go through Turkemnistan. I havent been there but I have been in the countries after.
Some points from my perspective. I was in the region about 6 months ago. I obviously didnt see everything. You can probably imagine my route based on the lists below.
Uzbekistan (problem finding fuel outside of big cities) - Xiva - Culturally really nice. maybe not worth a long de-tour
- Buchara - I didnt really appreciate it but I was a bit ill and think I could have seen more. Probably worth reading up
- Smarqand - Not magical, but I definately wouldnt want to miss it. Quite a few very nice cultural hot spots in the city
- Tashkent - Good for visas, not amazing.
Tadjikistan - Khujand - City is ok but I liked surrounding nature. The tranformation from more desert like (Uzbekistan) to more mountains is a nice and slow progress
- Dushanbe - Quite nice city but no amazing sights as far as I can remember. However, the nature around is really nice.
- Pamir highway - If you like nature, dont miss this. Worth fighting/waiting for visas etc. Permit is easy to get in Dushanbe
After Pamir, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan get a little pale if you ask me. Kyrg is really nice with good roads etc though. Definately not boring by any means. Just a little less amazing.
I heard good things about the lake "Issyk kul" and some places around. Youd need to find out more about that if relevant for you route.
Cant help you beyond that. My notes are based on my own perspective and I like a little adventure and nature. I just got my license before I went on my trip, so no previous experience is required (be prepared for real bad roads though).
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