Tourism in Tajikistan

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Asia / Central Asia

Tourist attractions

Pamir Highway

Region: Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region

Nature

Highland route called "road in the sky". Spectacular drive course overlooking 7,000m peaks and lakes.

Ismoil Somoni Peak

Region: Pamir Mountains

Nature

Central Asia's highest peak at 7,495m. Known as challenge mountain for experienced climbers.

Iskanderkul Lake

Region: Fann Mountains

Nature

Cobalt blue alpine lake. Surrounding hiking trails and lily colonies.

Sarazm Site

Region: Near Panjakent

Cultural Heritage

Neolithic-Bronze Age city ruins registered as World Heritage. Central Asia's oldest settlement.

Ancient City of Panjakent

Region: Sughd Region

Cultural Heritage

Sogdian trading city ruins. Highlights include frescoes and Zoroastrian temple remains.

Hissar Fortress

Region: West of Dushanbe

Cultural Heritage

10th century origin citadel. Restored stone gate and caravanserai serve as tourist base.

Nurek Dam

Region: Khatlon Region

Modern Architecture

One of world's ultra-high dams. Spectacular view of Vakhsh River canyon from observation deck.

Khorog Botanical Garden

Region: Khorog

Nature

Alpine botanical garden at 2,200m elevation. Protecting and displaying alpine plants worldwide.

Karakul Lake

Region: Murghab District

Nature

Salt lake also said to be former meteor lake. Creates blue mirror surface on windless mornings.

Dushanbe National Library and Flag Pole

Region: Dushanbe center

Modern Architecture

New landmark with 165m giant flag pole and largest library in country.

Suggested itineraries

4-Day Capital and Fann Mountains

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Dushanbe city tour, Hissar Fortress, Iskanderkul Lake, Teahouse experience

Light plan touring Dushanbe museums and markets, then driving to Fann Mountains for alpine lake trekking.

Pamir Highway Crossing Adventure

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Khorog, Murghab, Karakul Lake, Drive to Osh at Uzbekistan border

Grand road trip crossing Pamir Plateau over 4,000m by jeep. Homestay in nomadic villages with stargazing possible.

Travel tips

  • Visa convenient with multinational e-Visa electronic application
  • Carry cash in Somoni and US dollars; cards unusable in rural areas
  • For altitude acclimatization, take plenty of water and avoid rapid itinerary
  • Taxi sharing common; fare negotiable
  • Confirm not military facility before photography
  • Spring and autumn have large temperature variations; layering essential
  • Mobile communication 4G in urban areas; backup SIM card safe in rural areas
  • Russian or simple Tajik greetings make good impression
  • At restaurants 'plov' often sells out before noon
  • Tap water should be boiled or use bottled water
  • Washrooms often paid toilets; keep small change
  • Mountain passes close in winter; consider airplane travel
  • Non-alcoholic culture strong but domestic beer available
  • Market dried fruit bulk purchase more economical for souvenirs
  • Strong sunlight; sunglasses and sunscreen essential

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