Tajikistan
Tajikistan
About Tajikistan
Tajikistan is located in the eastern part of Central Asia. Tourists are drawn to its stunning mountainous landscapes, rich culture, and ancient traditions that have endured since the times of the Avesta, Zoroastrianism, and fire-worshipping practices. Eastern Tajikistan, known as the land of the ancient Aryans, features rugged, snow-capped mountain ranges and lakes with crystal-clear water. In the villages of this mountainous country, contemporary generations have preserved European characteristics, ancient religions, and customs from the era of Alexander the Great.
Many areas in Tajikistan, such as the Pamirs and Zarafshan, remain untouched by modern civilization, making them uninhabited. The towering mountains resemble fortress walls, in some places casting shadows where sunlight barely reaches. There are enchanting natural caves, swift mountain rivers, and flat plateaus atop high peaks, which Marco Polo described as places where "the sunshine has a blue color." These attractions are perfect for nature-loving tourists.
In such serene environments, one can truly feel at one with nature, experiencing profound calm away from the stresses of modern life. Time seems to flow differently in the mountains of Tajikistan.
The country boasts numerous cities, archaeological sites, rich museums filled with ancient artifacts, historic fortresses, springs, and lakes, each with its own fascinating stories. Visitors will be captivated and enriched by the beauty of Tajikistan, and the memories created will last a lifetime.
Tajik cuisine offers unique dishes that cannot be found elsewhere. If you haven't personally tasted them, it's difficult to describe their flavors. The fruits and vegetables grown in Tajikistan are distinctive and exceptionally healthy. Dry fruits from the region also make delightful souvenirs for loved ones.
However, more than the stunning landscapes and delicious food, the true gems of Tajikistan are its hospitable people. The warmth of their conversations, kindness, and welcoming nature will leave a lasting impression for years to come. Handmade crafts, traditional items, and instruments passed down through generations make for meaningful souvenirs for family and friends.
"Salom Tajikistan!" is the key to unlocking the hearts and homes of the people in this country, and in return, you will hear "Alekum bar salom" welcoming you as a guest. Welcome to Sunny Tajikistan!
Capital
Dushanbe is the capital of the Republic of Tajikistan. It is the country's main scientific, cultural, political, economic, and administrative center. Dushanbe is located at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level.
Big cities
Dushanbe, Khujand, Bokhtar, Kulob, Khorog
Administrative divisions
Tajikistan consists of four administrative divisions: Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Province (GBAO), Sughd and Khatlon provinces, and the Region of Republican Subordination.
Location
Tajikistan is located in the Central Asian region. Tajikistan is bordered by Afghanistan to the south (1,356 km), Uzbekistan to the west and north (910 km), Kyrgyzstan to the north (630 km), and China to the east (519 km).
Territory
Tajikistan is a mountainous country with altitudes from 300 meters to 7495 meters above sea level. 93 percent of the territory of Tajikistan is occupied by mountains that relate to the highest mountain ranges in the world. Fergana Valley is located in the north of Tajikistan. The Turkestan, Zerafshan, Gissar, and Alay mountain ranges are located in the northwestern and central parts. Pamir mountain ranges (with Ismaili Somoni peak (7495 meters) – one of the highest peaks on the Earth) are located in the eastern and southern parts.
Climate
The temperature disparity between the warm lowland regions and the cold mountainous areas is considerable. The lowest recorded temperature in the Pamirs was -63°C, whereas the highest reached +48°C in the southern part of the country.
Language
Tajik (State Language), Russian (inter-ethnic language)
Currency
Somoni (TJS)
Time zone
UTC +5
Calling code
+992
Internet TLD
.tj
Natural Resources
Aluminum, coal, oil, iron, zinc, antimony, mercury, gold, tin, tungsten, boron, powdered salt, carbonates, fluorite, and precious and semi-precious stones.
Main fields of industry
Mining, metallurgy, hydro energy, textile
Main agricultural products
Cotton, fruits, vegetables, silk, wheat, tobacco.
National Holidays
New Year - 1 January
Army National Day - 23 February
Mother's Day - 8 March
Nawrooz - 21 to 22 March
Victory Day - 9 May
National Reconciliation Day - 27 June
Knowledge Day - 1 September
State Independence Day - 9 September
Constitution Day - 6 November
Ramathan and Kurban Holidays
Lakes (area, square km)
Karakul - 380
Sarez - 79.64
Zorkul - 38.9
Yashilkul - 38
Shorkul - 16.3
About Pamir
Pamir is a mountainous region in Tajikistan, recognized as an administrative unit due to the unique ethnographic and cultural characteristics of its local people. The rugged slopes of the snowcapped mountain ranges have historically blocked foreign invasions, preventing significant mixing with outsiders. As a result, Pamir boasts a distinct culture, language, music, customs, traditions, and a unique way of life, including traditional architecture, clothing, farming tools, and handmade items that date back to ancient times. This region has witnessed the blending of various influences, including Zoroastrianism, fire worship, Islam, and the legacy of the Soviet Union, which together have created a valuable ethnocultural identity.
The area's interesting natural and cultural features, along with its historical significance, attract numerous tourists to the world's highest mountains—the Pamir Mountains.
The tourist area of Pamir encompasses the entire territory of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region of Tajikistan. When traveling in this region, visitors can also glimpse a significant portion of the Pamir region of Afghanistan.
Gorno-Badakhshan borders Afghanistan to the south, Kyrgyzstan to the east and north, and the Khatlon Region of Tajikistan to the west. The region is characterized by fast-flowing rivers, towering peaks, mountain ranges, and a remarkable natural environment.
The highest peaks of Central Asia are located in the Pamir, with Ismaili Somoni Peak standing as the tallest at 7,495 meters above sea level. This area is an ideal destination for alpinists, and it is home to several hot springs with mineral content, such as Jelondeh, Garmchashma, Avj, Bibi Fotimai Zahro, and Pitup—excellent spots for relaxation and enjoyment.
Language enthusiasts will find a wealth of linguistic diversity in Pamir. The local community speaks Tajik, Russian, and English, along with eight distinct Pamir languages.
A must-visit destination in Pamir is Khorog, the most populated city and the administrative center of Gorno-Badakhshan. Here, tourists can explore ancient fortresses that date back to pre-Islamic times. Notable cultural and natural attractions include the Khorog Historical Museum, the Nosiri Khusrav spring, the House of Sufi Muborakkadam in Vakhan, the Botanical Garden of Khorog, Chorbogh, and the Ismaili Centre, as well as the Agha Khan and the University of Central Asia. In the Murghab Region, visitors can learn about the lifestyle of the Kirghiz minority, see yaks and Marco Polo sheep, and purchase handmade souvenirs from local artisans.
