Tajikistan is a hospitable country in the south of Central Asia. Useful information for tourists

Basic moments

Tajikistan borders on Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in the west and north. The eastern neighbor is China. And in the south, the state border separates Tajikistan and Afghanistan. It is worth noting that the country has no access to the sea.

The official language in the country is Tajik. Interestingly, until October 2009 in Tajikistan, the Russian language also had the status of a state language. However, for political reasons, in 2011 he was returned to the status of "language of interethnic communication".

Today, the economy of Tajikistan is supported by the mining, metallurgical, chemical, construction, textile and food industries. Large deposits of silver, gold, iron, lead, table salt and other minerals were found on the territory of the country. True, their extraction is complicated by poor infrastructure due to the prevailing mountainous terrain on the territory of the republic.

Climate and weather

The climate of Tajikistan is sharply continental, dry. A feature of the local weather is considered to be a pronounced altitudinal zonality. The subtropical climate reigns in the low valleys. The middle tiers of mountains have moderate warm weather. And in the highlands of Tajikistan, a cold climate prevails. At the same time, in summer, the average daily temperature in the valleys reaches +30 °C. In winter, the thermometer drops to 0 °C. Interestingly, in the highlands during this period, frosts down to -27 °C are often observed. And in the Pamirs, an air temperature of -50 ° C was recorded. In summer, the air in the mountains warms up to only +15 °C. It should be noted that during the period from October to May, snowstorms rage on the territory of Tajikistan, and in summer sandstorms often occur on the plains, sometimes lasting more than a week.

The amount of rain also depends on the area. In low valleys, the amount of precipitation does not exceed 70 mm, in the Eastern Pamirs - 1600 mm. And in the highlands, rains are considered a fairly frequent occurrence. The maximum amount of precipitation occurs at the end of winter and spring.

The most successful time for visiting Tajikistan among tourists is spring (March - May). At this time, the lowlands turn into a huge flower carpet. The period from July to September is considered favorable for climbing the Pamirs. Hiking around the country is best done in September, since at this time the optimal climatic conditions are formed on the territory of Tajikistan, conducive to comfortable adaptation of a person.

Nature

The nature of Tajikistan will appeal to all lovers of mountain landscapes. About 93% of the country's territory is occupied by majestic mountains belonging to the highest systems of the world - Tien Shan, Pamir and Gissar-Alai. The territory of Tajikistan has more than 1000 mountain glaciers, the largest of which is the Fedchenko glacier.

The uniqueness of the mountain landscape of Tajikistan is given by green alpine meadows and the cleanest rivers flowing through them. In summer, the meadows of Tajikistan are covered with blooming wild irises, poppies and edelweiss. Tien Shan forests consist of juniper, spruce and laurel. They are inhabited by mountain wolves, lynxes, wild boars, bears, snow leopards. Small marmots that live in grasslands make excellent prey for lamb eagles.

Attractions

Throughout the world, Tajikistan is known for its many attractions. ancient culture and history. One of the most outstanding cultural monuments is the city of Penjikent, which was the center of a Sogdian principality. Here, archaeologists have found numerous remains of residential buildings, a necropolis, a palace with wall paintings. Today, a museum has been created on the site of the ancient city.

A large number of attractions are located in the capital of Tajikistan, Dushanbe. Of particular interest is the summer residence of the Hissar beks and the mausoleum of Yakub Charkhi, a famous mystic of the Middle Ages. Also in the capital of the state there are many museums and theaters, including the Drama Theater. A. Lakhuti, Opera and Ballet Theatre. Aini, Russian Drama Theatre. V. Mayakovsky.

There is a monument to Ismoil Somoni on Ozodi Square. It is also worth highlighting the monument to Abuali ibn Sina.

You can get acquainted with the culture of Tajikistan at the Museum of Ethnography. There is a stunning exposition of Tajik carpets, pottery, jewelry and other items.

Many historians consider modern Khujand to be the famous Alexandria Extreme, built by Alexander the Great. Since that time, only the remains of ancient structures have remained. The mausoleum of Muslihiddin and the old fortress in the center of the city are also of historical value in Khujand.

Near the city of Kurgan-Tube are the remains of a Buddhist monastery of the 7th-8th centuries AD.

Special attention the amazing valley of Childukhtaron (“valley of forty girls”) attracts. According to legend, forty huge boulders located in the valley are forty pretty girls. In order not to become the concubines of cruel invaders, they prayed to Allah to turn them into silent stones. Every spring, locals who believe in the legend decorate the blocks with fresh flowers and bright ribbons.

The main attraction of Tajikistan is its unique nature. Many travelers come to this stunning country to see for themselves the beauty of the majestic Pamir Mountains.

Kitchen

Residents of Tajikistan are proud of their cuisine. Culinary traditions Tajiks were formed over many centuries. The semi-nomadic lifestyle of the local population involves an abundance of flour dishes and meat. For the preparation of meat dishes, lamb, goat meat and horse meat are used. Tajiks do not eat pork. The most common meat treats in Tajik cuisine are considered to be cabbage rolls, kabob, shish kebabs and roasts. Tajik shish kebab is made from lamb, less often from beef. Its peculiarity is that the shish kebab is necessarily cooked on fat tail fat. Tajik roast is called "kaurdak". It is prepared from fatty lamb with the addition of fresh tomatoes, potatoes, onions and spices.

Pilaf occupies a special place in Tajik culture. The locals call it "ugro-pilaf". It is prepared not from rice, as is customary, but with the addition of unleavened dough noodles, which are fried in the oven and pounded to the size of rice grains.

In addition to pilaf, Tajiks are very fond of porridge with meat. Most dishes in Tajik cuisine are seasoned with onions, herbs, spices and milk.

Flour dishes are very loved by the locals. For their preparation, yeast or unleavened dough is used. The most common dishes are various flat cakes, lagman, sambusa, eel and brushwood. It should be noted that the Tajik sweet table is very specific. They consume sweets, fruits and drinks up to three times during meals. They are served before, during and after meals. National pastries of Tajikistan (brushwood, halva, puff pastries) are very popular not only among local residents, but also among foreign guests.

Green tea is considered the most favorite drink in Tajikistan. Interestingly, Tajiks prefer to drink green tea mainly in summer, and in winter period they choose regular black tea. On the territory of Tajikistan, shirchay, tea with milk, is very popular. This drink is seasoned with salt and butter. Of course, not every foreigner dares to try such a treat. By the way, locals drink tea without sugar.

Food prices in Tajik restaurants are quite reasonable. So, for dinner in a middle-class establishment, you will have to pay only $ 6. And lunch in a chic restaurant will cost about $ 10-15.

Accommodation

The tourist infrastructure of Tajikistan leaves much to be desired. Most of the country's hotels were built back in the days Soviet Union. Modern hotels, including Hyatt Regency Dushanbe, are located in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. Such hotels are designed for eminent guests. On the territory of such hotels there are modern restaurants, fitness centers, gyms, bars and other entertainment facilities. The cost of living in such hotels significantly exceeds $ 100 per day.

In addition to expensive apartments in large cities, you can stay in guest houses and Bed & Breakfast hotels. Prices for single rooms in such establishments do not exceed $50 per day. When traveling to the mountainous regions of the Republic of Tajikistan, you can spend the night at one of the many camp sites. In the villages of the Pamirs, local residents often let travelers stay for the night for free. True, there are no amenities familiar to tourists in the villages. And in winter, there are quite often power outages. It is worth noting that in cheap hotels and hotels there is one drawback - frequent interruptions in cold water. And there is no hot water at all.

Before planning a trip to Tajikistan, it is necessary to take care of the place of residence in advance, since the number of hotels in the country is small, and the rooms in them are often occupied.

Entertainment and recreation

Beautiful Tajikistan offers its foreign guests huge selection entertainment. Throughout the world, this country is known as one of the largest centers of world mountaineering. Hundreds of thousands of people come here every year to conquer the mountain peaks of the Pamir and Tien Shan.

Tracking is very popular in Tajikistan. Many tourists are attracted by unforgettable walks through the picturesque, inaccessible terrain. Rafting fans also visit Tajikistan. On the territory of the country there is a huge number of mountainous turbulent rivers, rafting on which will provide you with a portion of adrenaline.

Fascinating excursions to unique monuments of antiquity, many of which are already more than 2,500 years old, are very popular among foreign tourists.

AT recent times a huge number of ecotourists come to Tajikistan who prefer to visit the magnificent nature reserves of the country. The most exciting will be an excursion to the Khorog botanical garden. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is located at an altitude of more than 2300 m above sea level. Tajik language is very popular among foreigners. national park and Ramit Reserve. They have preserved natural conditions habitats of many rare animals, for example, snow leopard, argali and ibexes.

The mountain rivers of Tajikistan attract fishing enthusiasts from all over the world. Here the main trophies are trout and catfish.

Residents of Tajikistan are very fond of various holidays. The main holiday is Navruz - New Year, which is celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox (according to the ancient Persian calendar). In addition, Memorial Day (February 12), Independence Day (September 9) and other public holidays are widely celebrated. As in any Muslim country, religious holidays are celebrated on a special scale in Tajikistan, for example, Ramadan, Eid al-Azha and Eid al-Fitr.

shopping

The truly eastern country of Tajikistan is famous for its unique bazaars, where you can buy many excellent goods at a very low price. Bargaining is considered the main tradition of any oriental bazaar. This process is especially revered by the locals. By the way, those foreigners who start bargaining are provided with significant discounts.

The most common souvenirs from Tajikistan are skullcaps, shawls, scarves, various textile products, and embroidery. Particularly popular are items of national clothing - warm wadded robes, embroidered belts, dresses and trousers. Many tourists buy unique carpets embroidered with silk threads. Unique Tajik leather shoes are also in great demand among foreigners. One of the numerous tourist symbols of the republic are very warm mittens, scarves and socks made from the wool of the Pamir yaks.

Women will certainly like traditional multi-tiered jewelry with national motifs: necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Every foreigner strives to acquire the famous ceramic products with the applied symbols of Tajikistan and traditional figurines.

Transport

Tajikistan has a fairly developed transport system, represented by rail, road and air transport. It should be noted that more than 90% of transportation in the country falls on road transport. The road network of Tajikistan is unevenly distributed throughout the country. The quality of the road surface largely depends on geographical factors and on the number of residents living in the area. The best roads are in the north of Tajikistan. The mountainous relief of the southern part of the country does not allow creating a decent coverage. Some highways of the country are allowed to use only in the summer.

The best way to get around Tajikistan is by buses and fixed-route taxis, which regularly run between major cities countries. It should be noted that the car rental system in Tajikistan is not yet developed, but you can use taxi services. One day of using a car with a personal driver will cost you $50.

Railway transport has not received due development due to the difficult mountainous terrain. The length of the railway track in the country is only 490 kilometers. Interestingly, most of the road is located in the southern part of the country. It is worth noting that most international transportation is carried out by rail.

The lack of direct access to the sea in Tajikistan made it important to have a developed air service in the country. Today, international and domestic flights are carried out by the state airline Tajikistan Airlines. It is worth noting that due to adverse conditions in winter, a lot of flights are canceled.

Connection

Communication in Tajikistan is poorly developed. According to statistics, the country ranks last among the CIS countries in terms of the number of telephones per 100 people (approximately 3.8). You can use international communication services only in large cities by contacting the post office. In addition, you can call abroad from expensive hotels and inns. The cost of such a call to Asian countries and the USA is about $1 per minute. You can also call the CIS countries for a lower cost - about $ 0.3.

On the other hand, cellular communication has received intensive development, the services of which are provided in the country by six mobile operators at once: Babilon-M, Todzhfon, Indigo, Indigo-Somoncom, TK Mobile and MLT. Most of them support roaming of major global companies. It is worth noting that the cost of cellular calls is quite expensive. Connection alone will cost from $12 to $35. At the same time, the cost of one minute of conversation reaches $ 0.4.

Recently, network technologies have become very popular in Tajikistan. About ten providers provide Internet services. It is worth noting that not the whole country has the opportunity to join the worldwide network. Only 12 major cities can provide you with Internet access. There are about 50 Internet cafes in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The cost of one hour of work in such a cafe is approximately $ 1. Wi-Fi connection can also be found in large hotels in Dushanbe. It is worth noting that the country's government recently decided to block about 130 sites that, according to officials, contain insults to high-ranking officials. This list also includes social networks that are popular all over the world.

Safety

Tajikistan is considered one of the safest countries Central Asia. True, foreign tourists will not hurt to follow some simple rules. Do not walk alone at night. This warning is especially relevant outside of the country's capital, Dushanbe. At this time, foreigners become an easy "target" for nimble scammers and robbers. It should be noted that there were no serious offenses against foreign citizens in Tajikistan. However, you should not carry large sums of money and jewelry with you on excursions, which can attract the attention of clever pickpockets.

The sanitary situation in Tajikistan leaves much to be desired. The semi-nomadic lifestyle leaves its mark. Experts strongly recommend drinking only boiled, and preferably bottled water. Washing vegetables and fruits, as well as brushing your teeth, is also worth bottled water, since the country has a high percentage of cases of cholera, diphtheria, hepatitis E and A. In the south of the country there is a small risk of getting malaria and undulating fever. Therefore, all tourists entering the country are required to carry out the necessary preventive vaccinations.

Business

Despite studies conducted in 2007 by World Bank experts, who recognized Tajikistan as an economically unfavorable country, in last years business began to develop rapidly. Tajikistan is one of the countries of the former USSR that has untouched natural resources, which opens up huge prospects for foreign investment.

The parliament of the republic revised a number of legislative drafts in favor of a simplified documentation companies and enterprises. Many types of industry can be developed in Tajikistan, from textile to mining.

The untouched nature of Tajikistan attracts numerous ecotourists from all over the world. Such interest in the country's natural resources requires the development of tourism infrastructure. This is another direction for foreign investment, which will bring huge profits to its owners.

Real estate

To date, there has been a significant decline in demand in the real estate market in Tajikistan. This is due, first of all, to the outflow of personnel, Chinese expansion and a low level of diversification. Often, the purchase of housing occurs only for subsequent sale at a higher price.

As in neighboring countries, in Tajikistan there are no special restrictions on the sale of real estate to foreign citizens. However, for foreigners to buy land for the construction of houses will require significant funds and time to document the purchase.

Most of the offers for rental housing are concentrated in the capital of Tajikistan and the largest cities of the country. To rent a small apartment (up to 100 m2) you will need about $500 per month, in the capital you will have to pay up to $850 for the same apartment.

To buy an apartment in large cities, it is worth preparing approximately $50,000–60,000. When purchasing housing in the suburbs, you can pay the amount half as much. Country cottages and houses began to gain great popularity in the real estate market. Mansions near Dushanbe received special attention. The cost of cottages in the metropolitan area often reaches $140,000.

For a safe travel in Tajikistan, it is necessary to strictly follow a few absolutely simple rules. Firstly, since the times of the Soviet Union, the requirement for mandatory registration of foreign tourists at the place of residence has been preserved. Its cost is approximately $15. If this requirement is not met when leaving the country, strict border guards may not let you on the return flight.

Secondly, in Tajikistan, in bazaars and shops, purchases are made in somoni. It is better to exchange foreign currency in state exchange offices or banks.

Thirdly, the Muslim country of Tajikistan requires the implementation of certain rules of conduct in a religious society. So, you should not express your feelings in relation to another person in public. The clothes of foreigners must comply with the requirements of local canons as much as possible (t-shirts must cover the elbows, and trousers must cover the knees).

When buying souvenirs, you should remember that the customs rules of Tajikistan prohibit the export of food, gold, minerals and gems without proper permission. Export national currency is also prohibited, and foreign money can be exported in an amount not exceeding $ 5,000.

Visa Information

Citizens of Russia and the CIS do not need a special entry visa to visit Tajikistan. For unhindered border crossing, it will be enough to present a valid foreign passport. All necessary documents are processed right at the airport. The legislation of Tajikistan stipulates the obligatory registration of foreign citizens at the place of temporary residence. Such registration can be carried out within three days after entering the country. For tourists staying in hotels and hotels, this service is provided by the hotel administration.

Details on the rules for entry and movement within the country can be found at the Embassy of Tajikistan in Moscow, located at: 123001, Moscow, per. Granatny, 13.

culture

National culture has deep roots. Tajiks consider themselves the bearers and keepers of a multi-thousand-year tradition associated with the culture of the entire Persian-speaking area. The state emphasizes its continuity with the early medieval state entities, primarily the power of the Samanids with its capital in Bukhara. It is believed that the Tajik ethnic group was formed during this period. In 1999, the 1100th anniversary of the Samanid state was solemnly celebrated in the republic. The name of the patron of sciences and arts, Shah Ismoil Somoni, is surrounded by special honor. The highest peak (the former Peak of Communism, 7495 m.) is named after him.

The heyday of the classical Persian-Tajik culture, primarily literature (Rudaki, Firdowsi, Saadi, etc.) occurred at the end of the 1st - 2nd millennium AD. A qualitatively new stage began at the end of the 19th century. after the inclusion of the Tajik regions into the Russian Empire, especially since the 1920s, when the Sovietization of culture began, accompanied by a wide spread of literacy in Russian and Tajik (graphics based on the Russian alphabet) languages.

Prominent place in the formation of modern literary language belongs to the famous writer Sadriddin Aini (1878–1954), poets A. Lakhuti (1887–1957) and M. Tursunzade (1911–1977) are also considered classics of literature. The name of the historian-orientalist and statesman B. Gafurov is widely known.

In the mid-1980s, there were more than 1,600 libraries in the country, including a number of large public ones in Dushanbe and other urban centers. Today there are 180 public libraries in the capital city. The most famous is the Firdousi State Library, which houses a large collection of medieval oriental manuscripts.

Among the two dozen museums, the most famous are the Historical and Ethnographic Museums of the Academy of Sciences located in Dushanbe. There are local history museums in Khujand and other regional centers.

Theatrical art developed in Soviet time(since 1929). There were 10 theaters of drama and comedy, including the Tajik Drama, Russian Drama, 4 children's theaters, Opera and Ballet Theater named after S. Aini. Festivals of theatrical and folk art have recently gained particular popularity. 14 theater groups took part in the celebrations on the occasion of the 1100th anniversary of the Samanid state and the 8th anniversary of independence in 1999. November 7 is declared the Day of the Tajik theater.

In 1930, a republican film studio was founded and film production began. In the mid-1980s, the Tajikfilm studio produced 7–8 feature films and up to 30 documentary films annually. During the period of independence, the film industry is going through a deep crisis. Video distribution is expanding.

The main holiday is Navruz - the celebration of the New Year, which is celebrated, according to the ancient Persian calendar, on the day of the spring equinox. After the declaration of independence in Tajikistan, two new holidays were established: Independence Day (September 9) and Memorial Day (February 12) - in memory of those killed during the armed clashes in Dushanbe in February 1990.

Story

The history of Tajikistan is a series of ups and downs, enslavement and liberation wars. It is known from the history of Tajikistan that the first mention of the ancestors of the Tajiks dates back to the beginning of the 1st millennium BC, when, on the territory modern state, there were the most ancient slave-owning states: Bactria, Sogd and Khorezm, the main economic activity which was irrigated agriculture. In the 6th-4th centuries. Bactria was ruled by the Iranian Achaemenids, Alexander the Great. From the 3rd century BC e. the territory of present-day Tajikistan was part of the Greco-Bactrian, and then the Kushan kingdoms, was subjected to invasions of the Hephthalites, the Turks.

By the beginning of the 8th-9th centuries. can be attributed to the formation of the Tajik nationality. The origin of the name "Tajik" dates back to the time of the Arab conquest (8c), and denotes a crowned, or a person of a noble family. In the 13th century, the Mongols conquered the territory of Tajikistan. In the 16th century, it was conquered by the Uzbeks and became part of the Bukhara Khanate.

In 1868, the history of Tajikistan was connected with the history of Russia - the northern part of the country was annexed to Russia, and the southern part - the Bukhara Khanate - remained in vassal dependence on Russia. Joining Russia was of great progressive significance. In addition, it saved Tajikistan from the threat of conquest by the British interventionists, put an end to feudal troubles. In the northern regions of Tajikistan, which were part of Turkestan, Soviet power was established in November 1917. In early September 1920, the power of the Emir of Bukhara was overthrown and the Bukhara People's Soviet Republic was formed. On October 14, 1924, as a result of the national-territorial demarcation of Central Asia, the Tajik ASSR was formed as part of the Uzbek SSR. On December 5, 1229, the Tajik ASSR was transformed into a union republic. Tajikistan over the years Soviet power achieved unprecedented success in all sectors of the economy, great development received industry and agriculture. The basis of the energy power of the republic is a cascade of unique HPPs - Nurek, Golovnaya, Rogun, Baipazinskaya.

After the collapse of the USSR, a new political and economic period began for Tajikistan. The former Soviet republics became independent states.

However, the acquisition of independence by Tajikistan, which happened on September 9, 1991, was marked by the beginning civil war that left deep scars in the hearts and souls of thousands of people. The end of the fratricidal war was put at the famous XVI session of the Supreme Council, held in November 1992 in the ancient city of Khujand. At this meeting, a regulation on the national army was created, state symbols were approved: there are three colors on the flag of the Republic of Tajikistan: green, red and white. The green strip is the valleys, there are very few of them in the republic - 7% of the territory. The white stripe is the color of the main wealth of the republic - cotton, as well as the color of snow and ice in the high mountains. Red is the color of unity of the republic and brotherhood with other peoples of the world.

The sovereign Tajik state builds its activities on the basis of the Constitution adopted at a national referendum. Now Tajikistan is a full member of the United Nations and is recognized by 117 countries of the world.

Lifestyle

The majority of the population (72%) are rural residents living in more than 3 thousand villages. The standards of rural life differ from urban ones for the worse - as a rule, there are no sewerage systems, not everyone can use clean drinking water, in many areas there are not enough doctors and medical staff. Even in large villages there are not always libraries and cultural institutions.

Of the traditional social institutions, it is necessary to note the meetings of elders (mashvarat) uniting neighbors, men's meetings (jamomad) and, especially, the patrilineal tribal group avlod. According to some data, more than 12 thousand such consanguineous groups cover 40-50% of the population, in some areas 75-80% of the inhabitants consider themselves members of avlods. The basic cell of Tajik society (as well as other sedentary societies) is a large family consisting of parents, unmarried daughters, married sons, their wives and children. In common use, such a family usually has a house, land and livestock. The more wealthy the family, the larger it is. There are strong traditions of having many children, the average number of children, especially in rural areas, is 4-5. Polygamy is illegal and not practiced, partly for economic reasons. Marriages are made at an early age. Almost all women get married. Divorces are rare, most often observed in Dushanbe. The position of women in public and industrial and business life is hardly noticeable, they rarely occupy responsible positions in government agencies and private organizations. They are most strongly represented quantitatively in science, medicine and pedagogy. The labor of women, as well as children, is widely used in agriculture.

Economy

Tajikistan is an agro-industrial country, one of the poorest countries in the world, despite its considerable economic potential. According to the International Monetary Fund, 63% of the population lives on less than $2 (purchasing power parity) a day. The long war, the resulting destruction and human losses led to a sharp decline in the economy (GDP in 1995 was only 41% of the 1991 figure). In recent peaceful years, the economy and living standards have risen significantly.

Agriculture accounts for 30.8% of GDP, industry - 29.1%, service sector - 40.1%.

The main sector of the economy remains the state. The state controls most of the large industrial enterprises.

The country's economy is heavily dependent on the money earned by labor emigrants. The number of Tajik citizens involved in labor activity in Russia, has 1 million people. In 2005, they officially transferred to their homeland, according to the International Monetary Fund, $247 million. According to the EBRD, the real amount of money sent is about $1 billion (that is, half of the country's GDP), while over 90% of the funds are transferred From Russia. This money, however, is not invested, but spent on current consumption. A certain share of the economy, apparently, is occupied by the trade and transshipment of heroin from neighboring Afghanistan, according to experts, amounting to 100-120 tons per year.

Exports of aluminium, which provides half of export earnings, brought in only $550 million in 2005. In second place is the export of cotton.

In October 2004, an agreement was signed on long-term cooperation between the government of the Republic of Tajikistan and JSC Russian Aluminum (Rusal), according to which President Emomali Rakhmonov promised to sell the Tajik Aluminum Plant (TadAZ) to Rusal, and Rusal was to build Rogun HPP. This agreement, however, was not implemented.

In the city of builders of the Nurek HPP, an optical-electronic unit of the space control system of the Russian space forces is located.

Imports amount to 3751.1 million dollars (2007):
Ferrous metal, products light industry, automobiles, agricultural machinery, pharmaceutical products, medical equipment.

Exports amount to 3500.2 million dollars:
Aluminum, lead, zinc, rare earth metals, vanadium, uranium oxide), light industry products (cotton and silk fabrics), cotton, agricultural products (vegetables and fruits). (uranium) - (ruby).

Politics

According to the Constitution, adopted by referendum in November 1994, the Republic of Tajikistan is a "sovereign, democratic, legal, secular and unitary state." The supreme body of power is the Parliament, the Majlisi Oli (Supreme Assembly), which combines legislative, administrative and control functions in its activities. The head of state and executive power (government) is the president. He is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, as well as "the guarantor of the Constitution and laws, human rights and freedoms, national independence, unity and territorial continuity and durability of the state, etc." The government consists of the prime minister, his deputies, ministers and chairmen of state committees.

Of course, Tajikistan is not such a major center of tourism as, for example, Turkey. However, this does not mean that Tajikistan has nothing to surprise foreigners with. Tourists are attracted to this country high mountains(Pamir, Tien Shan), beautiful nature, medieval cities, sights, as well as ancient traditions and customs that have been preserved intact in secluded corners since ancient times. The descendants of the soldiers of the army of Alexander the Great, who once conquered this country, still live in the mountains of Tajikistan. As you can see, tourists in Tajikistan have a great opportunity to get acquainted with ancient history.

Geography

Tajikistan is located in Central Asia. Tajikistan borders China in the east, Kyrgyzstan in the north, Uzbekistan in the west, and Afghanistan in the south. This country has no access to the sea. The total area of ​​Tajikistan is 143,100 sq. km., and the total length of the state border is 3,651 km.

Almost the entire territory of Tajikistan is occupied by mountains. Moreover, more than 50% of the country is located at an altitude of over 3 thousand meters above sea level. Only about 7% of Tajikistan is small valleys (for example, in the north of the country, part of the Ferghana Valley). The highest peak in Tajikistan is the peak of Ismoil Samoni, whose height reaches 7,495 m.

Most big rivers in Tajikistan - the Syr Darya in the north of the country, the Amu Darya, Zarafshan and Panj. This Central Asian country has several beautiful lakes. The largest of them is the fresh lake Karakul, whose area is 380 square meters. km.

Capital of Tajikistan

The capital of Tajikistan is Dushanbe, which is now home to more than 750 thousand people. According to archaeologists, an urban settlement on the territory of modern Dushanbe already existed in the 3rd century BC.

Official language

In Tajikistan, the official language is Tajik, and Russian has the status of a language of interethnic communication.

Religion

About 98% of the population of Tajikistan is Muslim (95% are Sunnis, and the remaining 3% are Shiites).

State structure

According to the current Constitution of 1994, Tajikistan is a parliamentary republic headed by the President.

The bicameral parliament in Tajikistan is called the Majlisi Oli RT, it consists of the House of Representatives (63 deputies) and the National Council (33 people).

The main political parties in Tajikistan are the People's Democratic Party, the Communist Party of Tajikistan, the Socialist Party and the Agrarian Party.

Climate and weather

The climate in Tajikistan is diverse - sharply continental, subtropical (in the south-west of the country) and semi-desert, arid. In summer the air temperature is +30-40С, and in winter - -8-10С. Half of the territory of Tajikistan is occupied by the highest mountains in Central Asia - the Pamirs. There is a lot of snow in the mountains of Tajikistan. The average annual rainfall in Tajikistan varies depending on the region from 700 mm to 1600 mm per year.

The best time for hiking in the mountains of Tajikistan is summer. Winter in Tajikistan is usually mild, but the passes are closed due to snowfalls.

In turn, the best time to visit flat Tajikistan is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Rivers and lakes

Tajikistan is the smallest country in Central Asia, and most of its territory (over 90%) is occupied by mountains. However, there are almost 950 rivers and a large number of lakes in Tajikistan. The largest rivers are the Syr Darya in the north of the country, the Amu Darya, Zarafshan and Pyanj, and from the lakes, the fresh Karakul Lake and Sarez Lake in the Pamirs should be distinguished.

Story

People on the territory of modern Tajikistan, according to archaeologists, lived already in the Stone Age. The central, southern and eastern parts of modern Tajikistan in ancient times were part of the slave state of Bactria, and the areas north of the Gissar Range belonged to the slave state of Sogd.

Later, these lands were conquered by Alexander the Great and his Greeks, then they became part of the Seleucid state. And this is only a small part of the states that included modern Tajikistan. After all, Tajikistan was still conquered by the Kushan kingdom, the Turkic Khaganate, the state of the Karakhanids, the Tatar-Mongol empire, the state of the Sheibanids. In 1868 Tajikistan was annexed to the Russian Empire.

After the revolution of 1917 in Russia, the Tajik ASSR was formed on the territory of Tajikistan as part of the Uzbek SSR. In 1929, the Tajik ASSR was transformed into one of the republics of the Soviet Union.

Only in 1991 Tajikistan declared its independence.

culture

Tajiks sacredly honor their national traditions and pass them on from generation to generation. Until now, Tajiks (especially in villages) wear national clothes. Men prefer embroidered robes and hats, while women prefer embroidered dresses with trousers and headscarves. Girls, according to tradition, should have 40 braids.

Tajiks celebrate all Muslim religious holidays, as well as two public holidays - Independence Day (September 9) and Memorial Day (February 12).

Kitchen

Tajiks are rightfully proud of their national cuisine. Of course, Tajik cuisine is similar to the cuisine of other Central Asian countries, but it has its own characteristics, expressed in cooking methods, food processing, and, of course, taste.

Tajiks are very careful about bread (cakes). In Tajikistan, bread cannot be thrown away and dropped on the floor. Bread cannot be cut - it must be carefully broken. Be prepared for the fact that there are a lot of spices, herbs and onions in Tajik dishes.

Tajiks eat sitting around a low table - dastarkhan. Lunch always starts with tea, which is always drunk from bowls.

Meat dishes in Tajikistan are prepared from lamb or goat meat (Tajiks are Muslims and therefore they do not eat pork). Very popular among Tajiks is sausage made from horsemeat - “kazy”. Before cooking, the meat is always fried until brown.

In Tajikistan, we recommend tourists to try the local lamb kebab (the classic Tajik kebab is sprinkled with lemon juice and served with baked tomatoes), fried meat “kaurdak”, Tajik cabbage rolls “shakhlet” (mutton with rice, served in sour cream sauce).

Plov takes pride of place in Tajik cuisine. There are five most popular pilaf recipes in Tajikistan – Tajik pilaf, meat ball pilaf (“gelak palov”), Dushanbe pilaf (minced lamb), chicken pilaf, and noodle pilaf (“ugro”). Tajiks usually add quince, dried fruits, peas and garlic to pilaf.

Traditional soft drinks are green tea, katyk sour milk and sherbets (fruit drinks with sugar).

Tajiks usually drink green tea in summer and black tea in winter. Traditionally, in Tajikistan, sugar is not added to tea. Tajiks often drink "shirchai" - tea with milk. Butter and salt are also added to shirchai. Pamir residents add to tea goat milk, butter and salt - it turns out "sher tea".

Sights of Tajikistan

There are several thousand unique historical, architectural and archaeological monuments in Tajikistan. Now the authorities of Tajikistan are allocating significant funds for the restoration and restoration of archaeological and architectural monuments.

The Top 10 best sights in Tajikistan, in our opinion, may include the following:

1. Hissar fortress near Dushanbe
2. Mausoleum of Khoja Mashad near Kurgan-Tube
3. Buddhist monastery Ajina-Tepe
4. Mausoleum of Sheikh Massala in Khujand
5. Ruins of the Zoroastrian temple Ak-Tepa
6. Mausoleum of Makhdumi Azam in the Gissar Valley
7. The ruins of the Kaahka fortress
8. The ruin of the Sogdian city of Panjikent
9. Sangin Mosque in the Gissar Valley
10. Settlement of Sarazm near Panjikent

Cities and resorts

The largest cities in Tajikistan are Khujand, Khorog, Kulyab, Kurgan-Tyube, and, of course, the capital, Dushanbe.

Most tourists come to Tajikistan for the sake of local sights and mountains - Pamir is known all over the world. In addition, tourists in Tajikistan are attracted by beautiful nature and reserves, parks, natural monuments - Tigrovaya Balka, Dashtijum Reserve, Ramit, "Valley of Forty Girls", Rangkul Cave.

Souvenirs/Shopping

Of course, Tajikistan is not such a major center of tourism as, for example, Turkey. However, this does not mean that Tajikistan has nothing to surprise foreigners with. Tourists are attracted to this country by high mountains (Pamir, Tien Shan), beautiful nature, medieval cities, sights, as well as ancient traditions and customs that have been preserved intact in secluded corners since ancient times. The descendants of the soldiers of the army of Alexander the Great, who once conquered this country, still live in the mountains of Tajikistan. As you can see, tourists in Tajikistan have a great opportunity to get acquainted with ancient history.

Geography

Tajikistan is located in Central Asia. Tajikistan borders China in the east, Kyrgyzstan in the north, Uzbekistan in the west, and Afghanistan in the south. This country has no access to the sea. The total area of ​​Tajikistan is 143,100 sq. km., and the total length of the state border is 3,651 km.

Almost the entire territory of Tajikistan is occupied by mountains. Moreover, more than 50% of the country is located at an altitude of over 3 thousand meters above sea level. Only about 7% of Tajikistan is small valleys (for example, in the north of the country, part of the Ferghana Valley). The highest peak in Tajikistan is the peak of Ismoil Samoni, whose height reaches 7,495 m.

The largest rivers in Tajikistan are the Syr Darya in the north of the country, the Amu Darya, the Zarafshan and the Pyanj. This Central Asian country has several beautiful lakes. The largest of them is the fresh lake Karakul, whose area is 380 square meters. km.

Capital of Tajikistan

The capital of Tajikistan is Dushanbe, which is now home to more than 750 thousand people. According to archaeologists, an urban settlement on the territory of modern Dushanbe already existed in the 3rd century BC.

Official language

In Tajikistan, the official language is Tajik, and Russian has the status of a language of interethnic communication.

Religion

About 98% of the population of Tajikistan is Muslim (95% are Sunnis, and the remaining 3% are Shiites).

State structure

According to the current Constitution of 1994, Tajikistan is a parliamentary republic headed by the President.

The bicameral parliament in Tajikistan is called the Majlisi Oli RT, it consists of the House of Representatives (63 deputies) and the National Council (33 people).

The main political parties in Tajikistan are the People's Democratic Party, the Communist Party of Tajikistan, the Socialist Party and the Agrarian Party.

Climate and weather

The climate in Tajikistan is diverse - sharply continental, subtropical (in the south-west of the country) and semi-desert, arid. In summer the air temperature is +30-40С, and in winter - -8-10С. Half of the territory of Tajikistan is occupied by the highest mountains in Central Asia - the Pamirs. There is a lot of snow in the mountains of Tajikistan. The average annual rainfall in Tajikistan varies depending on the region from 700 mm to 1600 mm per year.

The best time for hiking in the mountains of Tajikistan is summer. Winter in Tajikistan is usually mild, but the passes are closed due to snowfalls.

In turn, the best time to visit flat Tajikistan is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Rivers and lakes

Tajikistan is the smallest country in Central Asia, and most of its territory (over 90%) is occupied by mountains. However, there are almost 950 rivers and a large number of lakes in Tajikistan. The largest rivers are the Syr Darya in the north of the country, the Amu Darya, Zarafshan and Pyanj, and from the lakes, the fresh Karakul Lake and Sarez Lake in the Pamirs should be distinguished.

Story

People on the territory of modern Tajikistan, according to archaeologists, lived already in the Stone Age. The central, southern and eastern parts of modern Tajikistan in ancient times were part of the slave state of Bactria, and the areas north of the Gissar Range belonged to the slave state of Sogd.

Later, these lands were conquered by Alexander the Great and his Greeks, then they became part of the Seleucid state. And this is only a small part of the states that included modern Tajikistan. After all, Tajikistan was still conquered by the Kushan kingdom, the Turkic Khaganate, the state of the Karakhanids, the Tatar-Mongol empire, the state of the Sheibanids. In 1868 Tajikistan was annexed to the Russian Empire.

After the revolution of 1917 in Russia, the Tajik ASSR was formed on the territory of Tajikistan as part of the Uzbek SSR. In 1929, the Tajik ASSR was transformed into one of the republics of the Soviet Union.

Only in 1991 Tajikistan declared its independence.

culture

Tajiks sacredly honor their national traditions and pass them on from generation to generation. Until now, Tajiks (especially in villages) wear national clothes. Men prefer embroidered robes and hats, while women prefer embroidered dresses with trousers and headscarves. Girls, according to tradition, should have 40 braids.

Tajiks celebrate all Muslim religious holidays, as well as two public holidays - Independence Day (September 9) and Memorial Day (February 12).

Kitchen

Tajiks are rightfully proud of their national cuisine. Of course, Tajik cuisine is similar to the cuisine of other Central Asian countries, but it has its own characteristics, expressed in cooking methods, food processing, and, of course, taste.

Tajiks are very careful about bread (cakes). In Tajikistan, bread cannot be thrown away and dropped on the floor. Bread cannot be cut - it must be carefully broken. Be prepared for the fact that there are a lot of spices, herbs and onions in Tajik dishes.

Tajiks eat sitting around a low table - dastarkhan. Lunch always starts with tea, which is always drunk from bowls.

Meat dishes in Tajikistan are prepared from lamb or goat meat (Tajiks are Muslims and therefore they do not eat pork). Very popular among Tajiks is sausage made from horsemeat - “kazy”. Before cooking, the meat is always fried until brown.

In Tajikistan, we recommend tourists to try the local lamb shish kebab (classic Tajik shish kebab is sprinkled with lemon juice after cooking and served with baked tomatoes), fried meat “kaurdak”, Tajik cabbage rolls “shakhlet” (lamb meat with rice, served in sour cream sauce).

Plov takes pride of place in Tajik cuisine. There are five most popular pilaf recipes in Tajikistan – Tajik pilaf, meat ball pilaf (“gelak palov”), Dushanbe pilaf (minced lamb), chicken pilaf, and noodle pilaf (“ugro”). Tajiks usually add quince, dried fruits, peas and garlic to pilaf.

Traditional soft drinks are green tea, katyk sour milk and sherbets (fruit drinks with sugar).

Tajiks usually drink green tea in summer and black tea in winter. Traditionally, in Tajikistan, sugar is not added to tea. Tajiks often drink "shirchai" - tea with milk. Butter and salt are also added to shirchai. The inhabitants of the Pamirs add goat's milk, butter and salt to tea - it turns out "sher tea".

Sights of Tajikistan

There are several thousand unique historical, architectural and archaeological monuments in Tajikistan. Now the authorities of Tajikistan are allocating significant funds for the restoration and restoration of archaeological and architectural monuments.

The Top 10 best sights in Tajikistan, in our opinion, may include the following:

1. Hissar fortress near Dushanbe
2. Mausoleum of Khoja Mashad near Kurgan-Tube
3. Buddhist monastery Ajina-Tepe
4. Mausoleum of Sheikh Massala in Khujand
5. Ruins of the Zoroastrian temple Ak-Tepa
6. Mausoleum of Makhdumi Azam in the Gissar Valley
7. The ruins of the Kaahka fortress
8. The ruin of the Sogdian city of Panjikent
9. Sangin Mosque in the Gissar Valley
10. Settlement of Sarazm near Panjikent

Cities and resorts

The largest cities in Tajikistan are Khujand, Khorog, Kulyab, Kurgan-Tyube, and, of course, the capital, Dushanbe.

Most tourists come to Tajikistan for the sake of local sights and mountains - Pamir is known all over the world. In addition, tourists in Tajikistan are attracted by beautiful nature and reserves, parks, natural monuments - Tigrovaya Balka, Dashtijum Reserve, Ramit, "Valley of Forty Girls", Rangkul Cave.

Souvenirs/Shopping

Capital: Dushanbe
Official languages: Tajik (state), Russian (language of interethnic communication).
Location: Located in the foothills of the Pamirs and has no access to the sea. It borders with Uzbekistan in the west and northwest, with Kyrgyzstan in the north, with China in the east, with Afghanistan in the south.
Square: 142,000 km²
Administrative division: The Republic of Tajikistan consists of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, Sughd and Khatlon regions, 17 cities, 62 districts (including 13 districts of republican subordination), 55 settlements and 368 rural jamoats (rural communities).
Population: 7 million 617 thousand (for 2011)
Telephone code: +992
Currency unit: Somoni (TJS), in 1 somoni there are 100 dirams.

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Majlisi milli Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan

Base: In 1999, the new Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan established the Parliament - Majilisi Oli. The highest legislative and executive body of state power consists of two chambers. National Council - Majilisi milli Majilisi Oli - the upper house.

Compound: 33 deputies

How elected: 25 deputies are elected by secret ballot at joint meetings of deputies from the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, its cities and districts, the city of Dushanbe and its districts, cities and districts of republican subordination. 8 members are appointed by the President of the Republic of Tajikistan. The term of office of the Majlisi Oli is 5 years. A citizen who has reached the age of 35 and has higher education. Each former President of the Republic of Tajikistan is a life member of the Majlisi Milli.

majmilli.tj

Ubaidulloev
Mahmadsaid Ubaidulloevich Chairman of the Majlisi milli Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan

Born on February 1, 1952 in the Farkhor district of the Kulyab region.
In 1974 he graduated from the Kharkov Polytechnic Institute, worked in the statistics department of the Kulyab region.
In 1979 he became the head of the management department of the city committee of the CPSU, from 1983-1985. studied at the higher political school in Tashkent.
In 1985 he became deputy. Chairman of the State Statistics Committee, in 1986 he was appointed head of the department of industry, transport and consumer goods of the Executive Committee of the Kulyab region. In 1988 he became the chairman of the statistical committee of the Khatlon region. From 1990-1994 - Deputy Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Kulyab Regional Council of People's Deputies, then Deputy. Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Tajikistan. From 1994 to 1996 - First Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, from 1996 to January 13, 2017 - Chairman of the city of Dushanbe.
Since 2000 - Chairman of the Majlisi milli Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan II and since 2005 - III convocations.
2007 - 2009 - Chairman of the Interparliamentary Assembly of the Eurasian Economic Community (EuraAsEC).

Majlisi Namoyandagon Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan

Base: According to the new Constitution of the Republic of Tajikistan, adopted in 1999, the Lower House of Parliament - the House of Representatives - Majlisi Namoyandagon Majlisi Oli was established.

Compound: 63 deputies

How elected: Elections are held by secret ballot on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage. 22 representatives are elected by proportional system, 41 by single-member constituencies. Majlisi namoyandagon operates on a permanent basis and professional basis. A citizen at least 25 years of age may be elected as a deputy of the Majlisi Namoyandagon Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan.

www.parliament.tj

Zukhurov
Shukurjon Zukhurovich Chairman of the Majlisi Namoyandagon Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan

Born in 1954 in the Pyanj district of the Kurgan-Tyube region of the Tajik SSR.
In 1976 he graduated from the Moscow Institute of Land Management Engineers, in 1992 Russian Academy administration with a degree in political science.
Since 1976 he has been a land surveyor, head of the land management department of the Kurgan-Tube Regional Agricultural Administration. In 1979, head of the department of working and rural youth, instructor of the Central Committee of the Komsomol of Tajikistan. In 1986 he became the chairman of the Komsomolabad regional executive committee. In 1990, he was appointed chairman of the State Committee of the Tajik SSR for personnel training. FROM
1993 to 1998 - Minister of Labor and Employment. From 1994 to 1997 head of the Government delegation of the Republic of Tajikistan at the inter-Tajik talks, member of the National Reconciliation Commission. In 1997, he became the director of the Center for the Coordination of World Bank Loans for Post-Conflict Recovery, in 1998, the chairman of the Pyanj region, deputy head of the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan. From 2005 to 2006 Member of the Lower House of Parliament. 2006 -2010 - Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population. In 2009, he was elected Chairman of the Council under the EurAsEC Integration Committee.
In 2010, he was elected speaker of the Majlisi Namonyadagon of the Majlisi Oli of Tajikistan.

Citizens of the former Soviet Union can enter the country without a long tedious visa application, it is enough to have an internal passport. It is worth remembering that it is prohibited by law to bring into the country amounts over five thousand dollars, and amounts over five hundred dollars must be included in the declaration upon arrival. It is also prohibited to export the Tajik somoni or bring it into the country. Jewelry can be taken out of the country only if there is a document and a receipt confirming the purchase made in Tajikistan.

Currency exchange

The official working currency is the Tajik somoni. The approximate ratio to the Russian ruble is one to eight, that is, one somoni is equal to eight rubles. With the dollar, the proportion is mirrored: one dollar amounts to almost eight somoni in total. American dollars, euros and Russian rubles can be exchanged at exchange offices, but not by hand. Trying to exchange currency on the street at a better rate, the probability of stumbling upon scammers and being deceived is too high. There are few ATMs in the country, so it is better to give preference to cash, rather than debit and credit cards. They are accepted only in the largest hotels and restaurants.

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Climate and weather in Tajikistan

Tajikistan has a sharply continental climate with frequent droughts. Subtropics reign in the lowlands, the climate is moderately warm in the middle part of the mountains, and cold begins at the tops of the mountainous heights.

The average summer temperature ranges from twenty to thirty degrees Celsius, in winter optimum temperature- zero degrees. At the highest points of Tajikistan, the temperature in winter often drops to minus thirty, and in the Pamirs sometimes even to minus fifty. In summer, the temperature in these areas, as a rule, does not exceed plus fifteen degrees. From mid-autumn to spring, storms are common here, and sandstorms occur in the flat parts of the country in summer, lasting up to a week.

Mountaineering enthusiasts choose the second half of summer to travel to the mountains, as this period is considered the most favorable and safe. From the very beginning of spring in the southern parts of Tajikistan, the valleys begin to bloom, turning into long picturesque landscapes with a wide range of colors.

Reviews by month

January 2 March 1

May 1 June 2

July 1 August 2 September 3

October 7 November 1

Photos of Tajikistan

Cities and regions

The division of the territory of the state of Tajikistan into parts occurs with the help of the official laws of the republic, adopted on November 4, 1995. As a result of this law, Tajikistan was divided into the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, as well as such administrative units as viloyat, shakhr, nokhiya, shakhrak, chamoati dekhot, deha (in decreasing order of importance).

However, the guests of the country will be more interested in the cities of Tajikistan that are significant from a tourist point of view:

What to watch

For my centuries of history Tajikistan was ruled by representatives of different cultures, and after each of them there were many buildings that became cultural heritage countries. In addition to man-made sights, the republic is also proud of its extraordinary multifaceted nature. Lakes, mountains, thermal springs - it is difficult to visit everything in one trip. A large trace was left by trade routes that unite the West with the East and stretch for thousands of kilometers.

In addition to Dushanbe, cities rich in sights include:

• Khujand, a city-fortress, built at the beginning of our millennium. The Khujand fortress has survived to this day and attracts tourists from all countries of the former USSR. In addition to it, the city has a large mosque and a monument to Kamol Khujandi. Read more: sights of Khujand.
• Penjikent, whose age is more than five thousand years, invites tourists to visit the remains of the ancient village of Kainar, as well as the mausoleum of Rudaki. Read more: sights of Penjikent.
• Istaravshan recently celebrated its 2500th anniversary. This is a real city - a museum. It contains dozens of large ancient mosques, as well as the mausoleums of Khazrati Shoh, Khudoyer Balami and Chor-Gumbaz. Read more: sights of Istaravshan.
• Hissar. People settled in the territory of modern Hissar about forty thousand years ago. Until today, a unique reserve with the Hissar fortress at the head has been preserved in it. Read more: sights of Hissar.
• Kulyab witnessed the emergence of the Great Silk Road, and to this day remains one of the most important political, commercial and cultural centers of Tajikistan. Guests of the city willingly go to the city history museum. Read more: sights of Kulyab.
• Kurgan-Tyube appeared already in our millennium, however exact date his appearance is unknown. Not far from it is a unique attraction - the Buddhist monastery of Ajina-Tepe. Read more: sights of Kurgan-Tube.
• Khorog. Due to the subtropical climate, Khorog is green and cool, which is its undoubted advantage. It is proud of its unique botanical garden and Kofir-Kala fortress. Read more: sights of Khorog.

Popular with tourists is a trip along the Pamir Highway, whose length exceeds seven hundred kilometers. This road borders Afghanistan and China and is one of the longest paved roads in the world. Traveling along the Pamir Highway will be one of the most exciting and picturesque trips in the life of even experienced tourists, but do not forget about the dangers. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the road has not been properly maintained and simply falls apart over time. Road gas stations are extremely rare, and you can’t even dream of car services, so before sending you should make sure that the car is in good condition, stock up on gasoline, oil, water and provisions.

In the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region there is a unique natural spring - the hot mineral spring Garmchashna. Not far from it is located the eponymous health resort. According to ancient legends, the water from there has medicinal properties, several thousand years ago, pilgrims went to this source, considering it holy.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has contributed several protected areas Tajikistan to the list of objects world heritage: Garmchashna spring, Zorkul lake, Fann mountains and several reserves.

On the Pamir mountain, the pearl of Tajikistan, the traces of the ancient peoples appear before the tourists. At various heights of the mountain there are several settlements with thousand years of history and rock paintings, fortresses and ancient city Bazar-Dara. Ore was mined in this city in the tenth century. About one and a half thousand people lived in Bazar-Dar, after themselves they left several houses, a temple, a bathhouse and several other buildings. The fortress of Yamchun was one of the first built in the Pamirs, it was created to control the movements of merchants and defend against raids by robbers about three thousand years ago. The second fortress was Kaakha, it was built already in the fourth century AD and outwardly resembles Yamchun.

Separately, it is worth mentioning Lake Sarez located in the Pamirs. It was born not so long ago - at the beginning of the twentieth century, after a powerful earthquake. The length of the lake is almost sixty kilometers, and the depth reaches five hundred meters. The lake with unusually beautiful scenery is both one of the most beautiful sights and a serious danger to the country. The fact is that with the destruction of the dam that appeared after the earthquake, most of Tajikistan will be flooded, and with it the territories of several neighboring states. At the beginning of the twenty-first century, the world community drew attention to this problem, but so far it has not been possible to solve it, since there are no funds to strengthen the dam in the budget of Tajikistan.

Sights of the cities of Tajikistan

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Transport

Wellness vacation

Movement around the country

The most popular public transport are fixed-route taxis accommodating four to twelve people. As in most countries of the former Soviet Union, the driver waits for the vehicle to be completely filled, and if the passenger has the means, he can not wait and pay for everything. vacancies then the bus will go faster. Also, the largest cities of Tajikistan have a bus service.

The railway system in the republic is poorly developed, trains travel only in the directions of Dushanbe - Khujand and Kurgan-Tube - Khujand, crossing Uzbekistan.

Domestic flights are operated by Tajikistan Airlines and Somoni Air, and operate flights between the largest cities. However, this type of transportation cannot be called the most reliable, because due to climatic features flights are often canceled and delayed, most often this happens in winter.

Car rental as such does not yet exist in Tajikistan, but private taxis are widespread. Drivers are usually accommodating and agree to take tourists to any point for reasonable money. The average cost of a car with a driver is fifty US dollars for the whole day. To protect yourself, it is better to seek help from the staff of hotels and bus stations, they often cooperate with private traders and will be able to advise a trusted driver. Before you hit the road, it is worth evaluating the capabilities of the car in order to avoid unwanted breakdowns on the road.

Cuisine of Tajikistan

In Tajikistan, as in the whole East, life is hard to imagine without pilaf. It has been prepared for hundreds of years, and during this time more than four hundred variants of its preparation have been invented. It is cooked in an oven, over direct fire or coals, rice is replaced with chopped noodles, and the range of spices is innumerable.

Hearty porridges are also prepared on the basis of rice. They taste like pilaf, but more water is added to them, so that the rice does not crumble, but sticks together. Meat Tajiks prefer lamb, goat or horse meat, beef is less common. The laws of Islam do not allow them to eat the meat of pigs.

Kebabs, common throughout Central Asia, can also be attributed to popular meat dishes. Even vegetable skewers are usually poured with fat to improve taste and more satiety.

A distinctive feature of oriental dishes is their abundant sprinkling with spices and herbs. In ancient times, this was done not so much for taste, but to disinfect food from germs. Now seasonings are an integral part of Tajik culture. In local markets, you can buy more than a hundred different aromatic spices from seeds of plants and herbs.

Any meal is impossible without the local fermented milk drink ayran, made from katyk with the addition of water. Koumiss is also common, as are many other milk-based drinks. Every Tajik housewife knows how to perfectly prepare refreshing green tea.

Soups are also plentiful. They are prepared from rice, noodles, potatoes, necessarily with the addition of sheep and horse meat, seasoned with various herbs.

For dessert, locals prepare triangular-shaped sambusa pies made from unleavened dough. They can be both sweet and with meat filling.

Souvenirs in Tajikistan

Embroidery and fabrics can be safely attributed to the main achievements of the Tajik industry. Items of national clothes will be an excellent souvenir. The famous robes embroidered with colored threads are famous for their unique properties - they are not hot in summer and warm in cold weather.

Men's ethnic outfits are embroidered with different colors and patterns depending on the area and consist of:

• tunic-like shirt
• trousers - harem pants,
• long robe,
• wide belt, more like a scarf,
• skullcaps
• soft leather boots.

Women's toilet is more modest, they have long worn tunic dresses, different depending on the area of ​​​​residence, and wide trousers to the calves. On their heads, they most often wear a scarf, as the laws of Islam, or skullcaps. National leather shoes are famous for their comfort and durability. Boots, sandals or galoshes worn alone or worn over boots and designed specifically for mountain climbing.

In Tajikistan, a lot of carpets, bed linen and tablecloths are made, sewn from silk or “mulina”. They differ high quality handmade and beautiful motley colors. Patterns, as a rule, are various geometric shapes, they were made this way even before the beginning of our era.

Women will appreciate jewelry with unpretentious ethnic patterns. Women have been wearing bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings here for many centuries; social status women in society.

Local craftsmen sculpt ceramic pots by hand or with the help of a machine, in which local food is especially tasty. Woolen products are made from the wool of yaks that live on the Pamir Mountains: socks, scarves, hats and mittens.

Safety

Despite the fears of tourists, Tajikistan is considered a fairly safe country to stay. However, visitors to Tajikistan should remember a few simple rules of behavior on the streets, as in most other countries, especially those in which Islam is the active religion.

• after sunset it is better not to walk on the streets alone, especially if not in the capital and not on tourist routes;
• it is not recommended to have large amounts of cash with you, you should not wear large expensive jewelry so as not to attract the attention of intruders;
• In no case should water be drunk from the tap, it can only be used after boiling or bought in bottled stores. As in most Eastern countries, the water filtration system in the cities is questionable, and cholera epidemics periodically occur in the country. Fruits and vegetables should also be rinsed with treated water, and in cafes and restaurants, ask not to add ice to drinks;
• Islam is a conservative and strict religion, so Muslims great attention give appearance. Guests of Tajikistan, especially women, should keep this in mind and, if possible, wear closed clothes; girls should refuse tight-fitting and short skirts and shorts, and not open their shoulders and décolleté. Not so long ago, the country's authorities at the legislative level obliged young girls to wear closed clothes on the territory of schools and universities. There are no such strict requirements for men, however, they also need to be aware of local rules regarding appearance.