A little bit about Tajikistan

Tajikistan: Full information

Tajikistan, officially the Republic of Tajikistan, is a mountainous country in Central Asia with a rich history, unique culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The country is particularly attractive to travelers for its high-mountain valleys, ancient monuments, and the hospitality of its people.

General information

• Official name: Republic of Tajikistan
• Capital: Dushanbe
• Largest cities: Dushanbe, Khujand, Bokhtar, Kulyab
• Area: 142,326 km²
• Population: About 10 million people (2024)
• Official language: Tajik
• Currency: Tajikistani Somoni (TJS)
• Form of government: Presidential republic

Geography

Tajikistan is the most mountainous country in Central Asia, where more than 90% of the territory is covered by mountains.

• Mountain systems:
  • Pamir: includes the peaks of Ismoil Somoni (7495 m) and Lenin (7134 m).
  • Hindu Kush and Tien Shan in the north.
• Rivers: Vakhsh, Panj, Zeravshan, Sirdarya.
• Lakes: Karakul, Iskanderkul, Sarez Lake.
• Climate: Sharply continental, with hot summers and cold winters.

History

1. Ancient history

• The first settlements on the territory of Tajikistan date back to the Neolithic era.
• The region was an important part of the Achaemenid and then Sassanid empires.
• Alexander the Great passed through this territory during his conquests.

2. Silk Road

• Tajikistan played a key role in trade between China, Persia and Europe.

3. Middle Ages

• In the 9th–10th centuries, the region was part of the Samanid state.
• The city of Bukhara (now in Uzbekistan) was the cultural and scientific center of the time.

4. Russian Empire and USSR

• In the 19th century, Tajikistan became part of the Russian Empire.
• In 1929 it became the Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic within the USSR.

5. Independence

• It was proclaimed in 1991. In the following years, the country experienced a civil war (1992–1997).

Culture

Tajikistan's culture is rich and diverse, with strong Persian influences.

• National clothing: Women wear parfans (long dresses) and satin outfits. Men wear skullcaps and robes.
• Kitchen:
  • Pilaf: a main dish with rice, meat and vegetables.
  • Sambusa: pies with meat or vegetable filling.
  • Soup: soup with lamb and vegetables.
  • Tea: green or black, served with sweets.
• Traditions:
  • The holiday of Navruz is the meeting of spring.
  • Weddings and religious ceremonies are an important part of life.

Economy

Tajikistan's economy is based on agriculture, hydropower and mining.

• Main industries:
  • Agriculture: cotton, fruits, vegetables.
  • Hydropower: Tajikistan produces about 98% of its electricity from hydroelectric power plants.
  • Mining: gold, silver and aluminum mining.
• Trade:
  • Main partners: Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan.

Tourism

1. Natural attractions

1. Pamir Mountains

   • Known as the "Roof of the World".
   • Popular routes: Pamir Highway, Ismail Somoni Peak.
   • Activities: mountaineering, trekking, cycling.

2. Iskanderkul

   • A lake in the Fann Mountains with crystal clear water.
   • Legend connects the lake with Alexander the Great.
   • Opportunities for fishing, camping and hiking.

3. Lake Sarez

   • It appeared as a result of an earthquake in 1911.
   • Situated at an altitude of 3263 meters.
   • Attracts adventure lovers.

4. Doodle

   • A high mountain lake at an altitude of 3914 meters.
   • A great place for bird watching and photography.

2. Historical landmarks

1. Ancient Panjikent

   • The ruins of a city that existed in the 5th–8th centuries.
   • Known as the "Pompeii of Central Asia".
   • Archaeological museum with unique exhibits.

2. Hulbuk Fortress

   • An ancient fortress of the 9th century in the Khatlon region.
   • Includes a palace, living quarters and a mosque.

3. Rudaki Mausoleum

   • Monument to the famous Persian poet Abdullo Rudaki.
   • Located in the village of Panjrud.

4. Rudaki Boulevard (Dushanbe)

   • The main street of the capital, surrounded by monuments and museums.

3. Cities

1. Dushanbe

   • A modern capital with numerous parks, museums and architectural monuments.
   • National Museum of Tajikistan: artefacts including a statue of Buddha in Nirvana.
   • Dushanbe flagpole: one of the highest in the world (165 m).

2. Khujand

   • The second largest city.
   • Khujand Fortress: an ancient citadel.
   • Panchshanbeh Bazaar: one of the largest markets.

3. Kulyab

   • A historic city celebrating its 2700th anniversary.
   • Mir Said Ali Hamadani Mausoleum.

Transport

• Aviation:
  • International airports in Dushanbe, Khujand, Bokhtar.
• Railways:
  • A limited network connecting major cities.
• Pamir highway:
  • One of the highest mountain and scenic routes in the world.

Interesting facts

1. Tajikistan is the most mountainous country in Central Asia, where more than half of its territory is located at an altitude above 3000 meters.
2. The country is home to one of the largest dam lakes in the world-Lake Sarez.
3. Ferdowsi's epic "Shahname" and Rudaki's poetry are closely connected with the culture of Tajikistan.

Conclusion

Tajikistan is a country that combines natural splendor, rich culture and unique hospitality. This is the perfect destination for those looking for adventure, inspiration and new experiences.