Tempting Tajikistan
With the vast majority of the landscape of Tajikistan covered in mountainous terrain, you’ll surely find adventure in this seldom visited Stan. Border crossings are re-opening more and more, so now is the time to visit for a truly off the beaten track experience. Outside the cities you’ll find stunning alpine scenery of the western Pamir-Alay mountain system. No journey to Tajikistan is complete without a visit to the jewel of the Fann Mountains, the enchanting turquoise waters of Iskanderkul lake.
The northern and cultural capital of the country, Khujand was founded by Alexander the Great who named it Alexandria Eschate, meaning furthest Alexandria. Referred to as Leninabad in Soviet times, Khujand played a significant role in the countries political and historical past, and today remains as Tajikistan's second largest city. The city will delight, not only with the intricate woodcarvings of the region but also with the vast array of ancient monuments.
Emerging as revitalised city newly built around parks, monuments, and wide tree lined boulevards, Dushanbe gives easy-going respite in a country that visitors sometimes find a tough but exciting place to travel. Having gained independence only at the end of the 20th century, you’ll find a proud capital celebrating the people of Tajikistan and a vibrant and varied cultural history.
You can be assured of a warm welcome upon your arrival at the unique rural region of Penjikent, an ancient city from the 5th century BC. Once a significant town of the Silk Road, Penjikent is rich in historical monuments, sights and culture.
The northern and cultural capital of the country, Khujand was founded by Alexander the Great who named it Alexandria Eschate, meaning furthest Alexandria. Referred to as Leninabad in Soviet times, Khujand played a significant role in the countries political and historical past, and today remains as Tajikistan's second largest city. The city will delight, not only with the intricate woodcarvings of the region but also with the vast array of ancient monuments.
Emerging as revitalised city newly built around parks, monuments, and wide tree lined boulevards, Dushanbe gives easy-going respite in a country that visitors sometimes find a tough but exciting place to travel. Having gained independence only at the end of the 20th century, you’ll find a proud capital celebrating the people of Tajikistan and a vibrant and varied cultural history.
You can be assured of a warm welcome upon your arrival at the unique rural region of Penjikent, an ancient city from the 5th century BC. Once a significant town of the Silk Road, Penjikent is rich in historical monuments, sights and culture.
Capital city: Dushanbe
Population: 8.735 million
Official Language: Tajiki
Currency: Tajikistani somoni
Timezone: GMT +5
Electricity:Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
International Dial Code: +992
Travel Insurance is mandatory for all group journeys and Sundowners Overland strongly recommends travel insurance for all other journeys. You must ensure that your insurance policy covers you for the entire duration of your journey, for all activities you will be participating in and that you have purchased the highest level of cover available to you for medical emergencies (including repatriation/evacuation cover) which are relevant to ALL the destinations that you will be visiting. Contact us for further information and quotes.
If you are taking special medication, it is a good idea to carry a letter from your doctor to show authorities if necessary. Some medications and sleeping pills that contain codeine are restricted in Tajikistan.
Since some medications can also be affected by changes in temperature or require special care, we recommend you discuss this with your doctor before departure.
If you are overlanding via the Pamir Highway the best time to travel is from late May until late September. Outside of these months the high mountain passes can potentially be inaccessible due to snow.
When combining time in Tajikistan's mountains as well as cities, late April to May is an ideal time to visit. The nights are cooler, and avoiding the high heat of summer (July - August) makes city exploring a more comfortable experience.
For lovers of cold, November to March brings cooler temperatures, snowcapped mountains, fewer foreign tourists and unique local encounters.
The most festive time of year is the Nowruz Festival that celebrates the Persian New Year and the coming of spring. Festivities usually commence towards the end of March with three days of celebrations, traditional food and games, including the fascinating buzkashi (played on horseback using a headless goat carcass).
Tajikistan uses the somoni, and is mostly a cash economy. Travellers cheques are not accepted, and very few establishments take credit cards. There is a small, but increasing number of ATM's in Dushanbe and other larger cities however they can be unreliable. Whilst in rural areas you will not find any access to ATM's or currency exchange outlets.
US dollar is the most widely accepted foreign currency, so take plenty with you to see you through your stay.
In Dushanbe:
*Prices are approximate average costs based on prices at 11/03/17 and are based on the equivalent amount of local currency.
Our border crossing from Kyrgyzstan to Tajikistan lies in the beautiful Fergana Valley. On both sides the border officials are fairly relaxed, polite and helpful.
Mobile internet is not so expensive and if you can get a good signal, it should be fast enough to do research and stay in touch with people. 3G is available in the major towns. Outside, expect internet to be very slow.
Internet in Tajikistan, like elsewhere, is filtered. You are being watched and unwanted websites, including social networks, may be blocked.
SIM cards are readily available in larger cities in Tajikistan however they are not always available for foreigners. You should be able to access roaming with your mobile/cell just ensure you check the fees with your provider before you leave.