A Russian tourist described a lake in Tajikistan with the words “dump your head”
Photo: MarBom / Shutterstock / Fotodom
Amazing mountain landscapes, lakes with emerald water, untouched nature, colorful Asian architecture, magnificent palaces, mountain villages, hellish serpentines, fragrant sambusa and crispy tortillas ― Tajikistan is characterized by all this along with the status of the poorest country in Central Asia. This tiny state, sandwiched between mountain ranges and devoid of developed infrastructure, is called the pearl of the Central Asian region.
What attracts tourists to Tajikistan
No matter where a tourist is in Tajikistan, he will always be surrounded by mountains that occupy more than 90 percent of the country’s territory. After seeing this, one cannot remain indifferent.
“I’ve been to many places, traveled around Europe and America. I have a goal to visit all countries of the world, and I went to Tajikistan, which is not very popular, just for show,” says Arina Ionova, a traveler from Moscow.
“I wasn’t expecting anything special, so I was very surprised. This is a very underestimated country, around which there are many erroneous stereotypes,” she adds.
Of course, mountain tourism is the main magnet for travelers in Tajikistan. More than half of the country’s territory is located at an altitude of 3,000 meters above sea level. There are 24 six―thousand meters in the country, and the highest point ― Ismoil Somoni peak – reaches 7,495 meters. Among the majestic peaks there are lakes with azure water, stormy rivers and waterfalls, protected places where no human foot has yet set foot.
They go to the mountains on one-day guided tours or for several days with overnight stays in nearby villages. Outdoor enthusiasts and climbers take backpacks and tents and go on multi-day hikes. At the same time, Tajikistan attracts tourists not only with its natural attractions.
The country has a rich history going back centuries. People began to settle in these territories 600-900 thousand years ago. Traces of ancient civilizations are found in the settlements of Penjikent and Sarazm, and the first state formations ― Sogdiana and Bactria appeared here before our era. More information about this can be found in the museums of Dushanbe, which itself surprises guests with its rich architecture and Asian flavor.
If people find out how beautiful Tajikistan is, everyone will rush there, and it will become another popular tourist destination. Now we need to go precisely because there is no one there and you can enjoy the pristine nature when no one bothers you, and people are glad to see you.
Arina Ionovaturist from MoscowMaterials on the topic:
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How to get
Tajikistan’s big advantage is that tourists from Russia do not need a visa. You can enter the country using a Russian or foreign passport. Direct flights are operated to four cities ― Dushanbe, Khujand, Kulyab and Bokhtar.
Flights from Russia are operated by Ural Airlines, North Wind, Utair, S7 Airlines, Somon Air, Uzbekistan Airlines. You can get to the capital of Tajikistan directly from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Ufa, Kazan, Samara, Sochi, Mineralnye Vody, Krasnoyarsk, Chelyabinsk.
₽38 000
approximate price of Moscow — Dushanbe air tickets in July (direct round-trip flight)
Direct trains to Tajikistan run from Volgograd, trains reach Dushanbe and Kulyab. The travel time will be approximately 2.5-3 days.
Where to live
It is most convenient to book accommodation in Tajikistan through Russian services. For example, on Yandex Travel there are options for July from 2.5 thousand rubles per night. Through the service Ostrovok.ru you can find an option from about 4.8 thousand rubles. There are hotels on the “Armored Car” for 5.5 thousand rubles per day. Tourists can also use Booking and AirBnb services, but there are difficulties with paying and operating sites without a VPN, since they are not available in Russia.
There are accommodation options for any budget in Tajikistan: both cheap hostels and luxury hotels. According to the TripAdvisor portal, the best hotels include (prices are for two people per night from July 1 to July 2, 2024):
- Hyatt Regency, Dushanbe, 29 thousand rubles;
- Hilton, Dushanbe, 16 thousand rubles;
- Serena Hotel, Dushanbe, 14 thousand rubles;
- Hotel Ayni, Dushanbe, 6 thousand rubles;
- Parliament Palace Hotel, Khujand, 7.3 thousand rubles;
- “Sugdien” 3*, Khujand, 3.5 thousand rubles.
Tourists can also use the local ad placement service Somon.tj there are offers for daily rent of apartments. The Russian Avito app works in Tajikistan, although there are few ads there.
Money and transport
The national currency of Tajikistan is called somoni (1 somoni is equal to about 8 rubles). Due to the sanctions, Visa and Mastercard cards of Russian banks abroad will be useless. The state-owned Amonatbank and Dushanbe City Bank continue to accept Mir cards, but guests of Tajikistan should still stock up on cash rubles and buy somoni with them at local exchangers.
Murghab village in the Pamir Mountains, Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region
“We paid in the old―fashioned way – in cash, although there are places where Mir cards are accepted. If you have a foreign card, it’s great, but you can safely travel with currency, there’s nothing wrong with that,” says tourist Anna Tikhonova.
They travel around Dushanbe by buses, trolleybuses and minibuses. In addition, local taxi services are available to travelers ― “YAK”, “Rakhsh”, “Maxim”, Somon Taxi.
“Tourists who want to travel outside the city can use a public taxi. They work without a meter and transport passengers from point A to point B. For example, you can use such a taxi to get to the Hissar fortress for 10-20 somoni (80-160 rubles),” says local guide Nasim Sadulloev.
A tour or an independent trip?
In 2023, more than 1.2 million foreigners visited Tajikistan ― 20 percent more than a year earlier, with one in five travelers coming from Russia.
At the same time, tourist Arina Ionova recalls that she flew to Dushanbe from Novosibirsk in April, and there were only two Russians on the whole plane ― she and her father. “Locals are very happy and surprised that people come to them from Russia. As we understand it, it is rare that someone just visits Tajikistan, it is unprecedented for them,” says Arina.
The tourism sector in Tajikistan is just beginning to develop, and travelers need to be prepared for this
“In the last three or four years, the situation with tourism has changed. There were activists who began to develop this area and resume domestic tourism. Covid helped us in many ways, because people could not travel abroad and they could only relax inside the country. We started looking for interesting places and bringing tourists there,” says guide Nasim Sadulloev.
Travelers are advised to come to Tajikistan on organized tours or use the services of local guides. It’s easier and safer, especially when traveling to the mountains, where there is not always communication and public transport does not run.
Tourists think they will save money by coming on their own, but usually it turns out the opposite. They pay double the price to taxi drivers, visit places where it is not very tasty, but expensive. So they miss all the beauty of Tajikistan, because it is difficult for a new person in an unfamiliar city to find interesting places
Nasim Sadulloev Guide to Tajikistan
At what time of the year is it better to come to Tajikistan
The peak tourist season in Tajikistan falls in July. In summer, the air temperature on the plains reaches 30 degrees, and in the mountains it varies from zero to plus 15 depending on altitude. At the same time, locals and tourists call spring the most successful time for a trip.
Hissar Fortress
Arriving in March, for example, you can catch the Navruz holiday. It is timed to coincide with the vernal equinox, March 20 or 21, and symbolizes the end of winter, the renewal of nature. On this occasion, festivals with music, dancing and treats are held in Tajikistan. During Navruz, tourists can taste sumanak (or sumalak) ― a festive dish made from sprouted wheat.
It is windy and hot in Tajikistan for nine months, and the rest of the time it is winter,” Nasim Sadulloev notes. ― I advise tourists who like to go to the mountains to come in late spring, when it rains less. At this time, you will not be cold in the mountains, you can even arrange overnight hikes
Travelers are also satisfied with their autumn trips to Tajikistan. Tourists are already rare here, and in the off-season the chances of staying alone in nature are even higher. Travel blogger and photographer Viktor Bashkir writes that he found a golden time among the Alaudin lakes and did not regret it: “During the summer hiking season, they say there is a human hubbub and presence. And in late autumn, no smart person will go uphill. Just us.”
What dishes to try in Tajikistan
As travelers say, if you want to eat delicious and cheap food, you need to go to Tajikistan. Food is served here literally on every corner, and it is prepared right on the streets. There are modern trendy establishments in Dushanbe, and there are many outdoor cafes and canteens in villages and on mountain roads. At the same time, tandoori and barbecues can often stand directly on the roadsides, and some housewives even cook at home, set tables and sell dishes to passers-by.
“Often you can see whole mountains of fried chicken or fish on the sidewalk, and all this is stored without refrigerators,” writes travel blogger TrueStory Travel. “At first, I did not risk trying food that is in the heat all day, but they explained to me that, despite the seemingly large volume, everything sells out in just half a day.”
Getting to know the local cuisine should start with pilaf. Local guide Nasim Sadulloev recommends visiting the “Pilaf Center” in Dushanbe or the establishments “Punch Deg” and “Mohi Nav”. Although, according to him, the dish is perfectly prepared in all establishments of Tajikistan.
“Everything comes together and a harmony of ingredients is created. Kurutob is served in a wooden dish, it is customary to eat it with your hands. It is very tasty and inexpensive: you can order it for two dollars ― and two people will be full,” adds Nasim Sadulloev.
In addition, in Tajikistan, you should definitely try tortillas, sambusa (a local version of samsa), kebabs and mantas. Nuts and dried fruits, teas, spices and local sweets are sold in abundance in the markets. “Eating pistachios is very common in Tajikistan, because they grow them there themselves,” Arina Ionova notes.
Mehrgon Market in Dushanbe
Dushanbe and the surrounding area
The capital of Tajikistan makes a mixed impression on travelers. The city pleasantly surprises with wide avenues, an abundance of squares and parks, and monumental architecture in the Asian style. On the other hand, the further away from the center, the simpler and poorer the streets look. There are already five-storey buildings on the outskirts, reminiscent of the Soviet past of the country, and mismatched buildings.
You should start exploring the city from Rudaki Park, named after the poet and founder of Persian literature Abu Abdullah Rudaki. Nearby is the famous Rohat teahouse, opened back in 1958. Although tourists scold the quality of the dishes there, it is worth visiting it for the sake of beautiful interiors. After walking along the fountains and inhaling the smell of flowers, you can continue your way to the Palace of the Nation ― the presidential residence. Nearby there is a monument with the coat of arms of Tajikistan and the tallest flagpole in the world, listed in the Guinness Book of Records.
For new knowledge about the history of Tajikistan, we go to the National Museum, and then follow to the Istikloliyat Park. There you can admire a series of fountains and a 121-meter architectural complex, where there is an observation deck overlooking the city. Another local attraction is the Kohi Navruz Palace, modern, gigantic and pompous.
“I also visited the central Mehrgon market, the local flavor is felt there in full. Teas, spices, nuts, lots of fruits and vegetables, everything is delicious and fresh,” says Anna Tikhonova
The traveler also advises visiting the exhibition hall of the Union of Artists of Tajikistan. “There are workshops there, artists are invited to come in and show their work. From there, you can bring home non-tourist souvenirs, for example, I bought a small oil painting depicting the Hissar Fortress, painted in the 1980s,” she says.
The Hissar Fortress is located 20 kilometers from Dushanbe. It was built 2.5 thousand years ago, and little has been preserved since that time, although much has been restored. “The authentic atmosphere of ancient Tajikistan is felt there. You can ride horses in the mountains, walk along the street with shops of local craftsmen, climb the fortress, which offers beautiful views. I advise you to use the services of a guide to make it more interesting,” says Anna Tikhonova.
What else to visit in and around Dushanbe
- The National Library of Tajikistan is the richest fund of Tajik-Persian literature, where the works of Rudaki, Avicenna, Omar Khayyam are kept.
- Monument to Ismoil Somoni, the emir of the first Tajik Samanid state.
- The Haji Yakub Mosque was founded at the end of the century before last, and later restored.
- The Central Cathedral Mosque of Dushanbe ― novodel, opened in June 2023.
- The National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan houses a valuable 12-meter statue of Buddha, one of the world’s largest monuments of Buddhism.
- The Botanical Garden and the Khayem Amusement Park.
- The Kuli Water Park with a beach on the lake, pools, water slides, a zoo and a food court.
Kohi Navruz Palace in Dushanbe
Khujand
Khujand, the country’s second largest city, is located in the north of Tajikistan, 200 kilometers from Dushanbe. According to some reports, it was founded 2.5 thousand years ago, which means that it is one of the oldest in Central Asia.
Khujand is a non―touristic place, so foreigners are a novelty there. It is worth a visit for those who want to delve deeper into Tajikistan’s past and see even more historical sights. It is easy to get to Khujand from the capital by plane, and then return to Russia by direct flight.
Khujand is interesting for its fortress, the same age as the city, which has been destroyed and rebuilt more than once. At various times Khujand was under the rule of the empire of Alexander the Great, the Arab conquerors, the Tatar-Mongols ― evidence of this has been preserved in the local museum.
There are also monuments of the XVI-XVII centuries in Khujand ― the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin and the Masjidi Jami Mosque. A walk through the historical center and the embankment of the Syrdarya River can be completed with a visit to the huge Panchshanbeh bazaar. And 20 kilometers from the city there is the Kayrakkum reservoir (also called the Tajik Sea), where locals like to swim.
Iskanderkul Lake
What to see in the mountains of Tajikistan
Iskanderkul Lake
Lake Iskanderkul is the hallmark of Tajikistan and an absolute must visit in this country. It impresses with bright blue water and breathtaking views around. Nearby there is another lake teeming with snakes, as well as a 43-meter waterfall, which is called the Fan Niagara.
At first I thought it would just be a lake, which I’ve seen a lot of, but it’s just a dump of the head. At first, we drove along a mountain serpentine and observed incredible views along the way. Arriving at the lake, we did not meet a single living soul and had a picnic. Azure water, silence, sitting without Internet and enjoying nature. I was so fed up during this tour ― I didn’t expect it to be so cool
Arina Ionovaturist from Moscow
Interestingly, the name of the lake comes from the name Iskander ― that’s how Alexander the Great was called in the east. It is not known for certain whether the great commander visited these places, but several legends about Iskanderkul are associated with his name.
A lake covered with legends
It is said that the path of Alexander the Great during the Indian campaign passed through these places. According to legend, the highlanders resisted the conquerors so fiercely that the commander ordered to direct the course of the nearest river to the settlement and flood it. Iskanderkul appeared in this place.
According to another legend, Bucephalus, the favorite horse of Macedon, drank the icy water of Iskanderkul and fell ill, so the king could not take him on a hike. Bucephalus recovered, but felt the near death of his master, and therefore rushed into the lake.
Varzob Gorge
A few kilometers from the capital is the Varzob Gorge, a popular place among Dushanbe residents and tourists, where there are many recreation areas and guest houses. The main attraction of Varzob is Gusgarf Waterfall, and the Safet―Dara ski resort is also nearby.
“You can rent skis and snowboards there, ride cheesecakes. The infrastructure is very different from the same Sochi, not at all the same level, but there is a good restaurant in the mountains where you can climb by cable car and have a delicious lunch,” Anna Tikhonova describes.
Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, it’s worth taking the lift to the highest point to see the stunning mountains from the observation deck
Anna Tikhonova is a figure skater from Moscow
Alaudin Lakes
“The way to the Alaudin lakes is thorny, bumpy and rocky. But it is beautiful, spectacular and fascinating. It requires a good off―road car, a firm will and an equally firm ass,” recalls traveler Viktor Bashkir.
Crystal clear lakes surrounded by high peaks are called one of the most beautiful places in Tajikistan. People usually come here for a few days with overnight stays in tents or nearby villages. Popular mountaineering routes diverge from the Alaudin lakes, for example, to the five-thousand-meter Chapdara and Chimtarga.
Timur-Dara
Another of Tajikistan’s lakes, which is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes, is called Timur-Dara. The water there is icy and has an amazing emerald green color.
The route to Timur-Dara is not close, so it is suitable for prepared travelers. But along the way they will meet juniper (juniper) groves, saturating the air with a healing aroma.
It is also interesting to visit this mysterious place because it is part of the so-called anomalous zone of the Hissar ridge. They say people have stumbled upon the footprints of a bigfoot here and encountered unexplained phenomena attributed to UFOs.
Childuchtaron
The Chikhdukhtaron mountain complex (translated as forty girls) is located 250 kilometers from Dushanbe. The area is famous for its unique cliffs in the form of elongated silhouettes. In addition, dozens of rare plant species grow here. A trip to Childukhtaron can be combined with a visit to Lake Marguzor and the Fantak Waterfall.
The Legend of the Forty Girls
According to legend, one day Genghis Khan came to this mountainous region and ordered to capture it. The men stood up to defend their native land, but fell in battle. Then they were replaced by forty beautiful girls dressed in men’s clothes. They fought bravely until they were surrounded. Then the girls turned to Allah with a plea for help and turned into rocks red with the enemy’s blood. The enemies got scared and fled.
Pamir Mountains
Local hospitality
Travelers who have visited Tajikistan praise the country for the sincerity and cordiality of the locals. It is an honor to receive guests here, so they are offered only the best and delicious. Tourists in Tajikistan are equally welcome both in modern Dushanbe and in remote villages.
“Our hosts were the most hospitable. The table was set as if not two modest tourists had arrived, but a gang of voracious gourmets. Such human warmth warmed more than a heater,” writes Viktor Bashkir, who visited a rural guest house. “We couldn’t eat at the end, so we were given twice as much food as we ate on the road.”
Muscovite Anna Tikhonova adds that there is something that unites Russians and Tajiks. “Our guide was about my age. I talked to him and was surprised that we grew up on the same movies and cartoons,” says the traveler.
It is felt that people in Tajikistan are our fraternal people, although they are very different from Russians. It is clear that this is a completely different country with its own culture, but there is a feeling that we are still relatives, friends not on a blood level, but on a spiritual one
Anna Tikhonova is a figure skater from Moscow
Travelers like to quote famous lines from a song by Yuri Vizbor: “I left my heart in the Fan Mountains, now, heartless, I walk across the plains, and in quiet conversations, and in noisy feasts, I silently dream of blue peaks.” Indeed, the photos of these places alone are so fascinating that you want to drop everything and take a ticket for the next flight. The aroma of pilaf and tandoor tortillas attracts even thousands of kilometers away, and the hospitality of local residents encourages you to leave both your heart and soul in Tajikistan.
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