Location: Located in the southeast of Central Asia, Tajikistan is 93% mountainous and occupies the “highest” position in the region. Moreover, more than half of the land lies at an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level. And the highest point in the region – Ismail Samani Peak (7495 m, former Communism Peak) is located in Tajikistan. Needless to say, the nature of the region is not just beautiful, but delightfully beautiful.
Area: 143,100 sq. km.
Population: 8,000,000 people. The population density is 50 people per sq. Km and is distributed relatively evenly throughout the country.
Monetary unit: Somoni. The national currency is the only legal tender in Tajikistan, all payments are made in somoni. The Tajik monetary unit received its name in honor of the founder of the first Tajik state, Ismail Samani (in the Tajik transcription “Somoni”).
Why is it worth coming to Tajikistan?
Even though in recent years the country has opened its doors even more to the outside world, many travelers still do not know that the beauty of Tajikistan is available to everyone, not just adventure seekers. Lovers of anthropology, ethnography and history, connoisseurs of pure nature, and just curious travelers will equally appreciate the advantages of a mountainous country:
Tajikistan is a unique destination that is still free from crowds of tourists and has preserved its original local culture. Any visitor to the country will be able to see the unusual world of people living on the Roof of the World and will discover the rare culture of the ancient people.
Tajikistan is beautiful and rich in natural attractions. The smooth surface of lakes between high ridges, waterfalls, picturesque villages made of stone and clay, fertile valleys, winding serpentines and passes – all this will help you to take a break from the bustle of big cities and change the rhythm of life to enjoy the beauty of the country.
Tajikistan is an exciting country. On this earth, there is an atmosphere of anticipation of something new, unknown. Be prepared for something interesting and unusual waiting for you around the bend in the road, which will make your trip unforgettable.
How many days does it take to Tajikistan?
You can get to know Tajikistan and get a first impression of the country even during a short visit from neighboring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, but it takes about two weeks to get a complete picture of the country. At a leisurely and relaxed pace, it will take about a week for the western part of the country. And the same amount on the way through the Pamirs.
Study our recommendations and make your approximate itinerary so that a trip to Tajikistan fully suits your interests.
Dushanbe is the capital and largest city of Tajikistan, with many parks, green boulevards, and modern infrastructure.
How many days does it take? 2-3 days, taking into account visiting the surroundings
Main attractions: National Museum of Tajikistan, Hissar Fortress, Rudaki Park
How to get off the beaten track: a day trip to Iskanderkul Lake or Varzob Valley.
Khujand is a sunny and hospitable city in the north of the country, as well as one of the oldest in Central Asia and the second largest in Tajikistan.
How many days does it take? 1-2 days
Main attractions: Timur-Malik Fortress, Panjshanbe Bazaar, Somoni Park
How to get off the beaten track: to the recreation areas at the Kairakkum reservoir.
Penjikent is a small town with a rich history located on the border with Uzbekistan. It is an excellent starting point for further travels deep into Tajikistan.
How many days does it take? 1-2 days
Main attractions: Sarazm, Ancient Penjikent, Rudaki Museum of Local Lore
How to get off the beaten path: go overnight to the Seven Lakes or plan a trip to the Yagnob Valley.
Istaravshan is a small town south of Khujand, formerly called Ura-Tyube. The city has significant historical and cultural monuments of Tajikistan.
How many days does it take? 1 day
Main attractions: the architectural complex Khazrati Shokh, the Mug-Teppa settlement, Kok Gumbaz (Abdul Latif Sultan madrasah)
How to get off the beaten path: go to the ruins of the Sogdian settlement of Bunjikat.
Khorog is the largest city in the Pamirs, the capital of Gorno-Badakhshan, and a transport hub on the Pamir highway.
How many days does it take? Half-day – 1 day
Main attractions: Botanical Garden, Central Park, Museum of Local Lore
How to get off the beaten path: improve your health at the Garm-Chashma mineral hot spring.
Murghab is the highest mountain town in Tajikistan. A harsh but hospitable outpost in the Pamirs.
How many days does it take? 1 day
Main attractions: Lenin monument, Jameh mosque, local history museum, local bazaar
How to get off the beaten track: drive through the Ak-Baital pass to Karakul lake, ride a camel along the shores of Rangkul lake, find a yurt camp in the Pshart valley.
Note: Murghab is also a great stopping point for those who wish to combine a trip to the Pamirs with a trip to Kyrgyzstan.
Kurgan-Tyube is a city with a rich history in the south of Tajikistan, which is often forgotten.
How many days does it take? 1-2 days
Main attractions: Khoja-Mashad mausoleum, Ajina-Tepe Buddhist monastery, Khulbuk fortress
How to get off the beaten path: visit the healing waters of Chiluchor Chashma or explore the Takhti Sangin temple (Oksa temple).