Destination

Dushanbe

Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, is a fast-emerging Central Asian city surrounded by mountains, and presents a short-yet-fascinating history deeply rooted in Soviet-era Russia. Situated at the confluence of the Varzob and Kofar Nihon Rivers, Tajikistan's largest city sits in the very west of the country, close to the border of Uzbekistan. Up until the early 20th century, Dushanbe remained an isolated desert village before being discovered by the Soviets and transformed into a center of cotton and silk production.

Today, the city boasts enough sights to keep the modern tourist happy for a good few days, with impressive attractions such as Somoni Statue, numerous museums and galleries, as well as the ancient Gissar Fortress 20 miles outside the city center. Huge local bazaars offer a taste of local life, and although modern restaurants serving western cuisine are still in short supply, the thriving cafe culture here more than makes up for any lack of home comforts.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Botanical Garden Dushanbe

For a green escape from the city, a visit to the capital’s much-loved Botanical Gardens is a highly-recommended activity. The park area contains an interesting array of trees, plants and flowers from all over the world. Covering an area of around 40 hectares, the gardens can be found just a short drive away from the city center.

Gissar Fortress

Situated approximately 20 miles outside the city, Gissar Fortress makes an interesting little excursion outside the capital with its two giant turrets and rolling countryside in the background. Although lying in ruins today, the fortress was once an important administrative and political headquarters of ancient Tajikistan. Visitors can fully explore the site, getting up close to the three-foot thick stone walls, crumbling staircases, and lofty ledges.

Gurmej Museum of Musical Instruments

Located in central Dushanbe, Gurmej Museum of Musical Instruments offers a fascinating array of instruments - both old and new - from around Tajikistan and the Central Asian region. Boasting over 100 models in total, the instruments on display are mostly of the string variety, including the tar, rubab, tanbur,and dutor. The museum was founded in 1990 by the famous Tajik musician and actor Gurmej Zavkibekov.

Somoni Statue

One of the major attractions of Dushanbe, Somoni Statue rises high above the city streets, depicting the 10th-century founder of the Samanid dynasty. Located in the center of the city, a large arch towers above, topped off with a magnificent gold crown to create quite a spectacle. The statue is in the middle of one of the key intersections in the city, and guests can get up close by walking up the central steps leading up.

The National Museum of Antiques and Dushanbe Buddha

Etched firmly into the travel itineraries of most travelers to the Tajikistan capital is The National Museum of Antiques, situated in the heart of Dushanbe. The centerpiece of the museum is a 40-foot-long reclining Buddha statue, believed to be over 1,600 years old. Named ‘Dushanbe Buddha’, the statue is the largest of its type in the whole of Central Asia, and sits alongside a host of other interesting artifacts and exhibitions in the museum.

Tajikistan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Pamir Highway

Northeast

Dushanbe

Dushanbe

Dushanbe Itineraries

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Multi Country

Intrepid

Classic Tajikistan

From barely-visited lakes to secluded towns and some of the most pristine trekking destinations in the world, this 9-day tour through Tajikistan takes you past some of the country’s most natural and stunning destinations. Start in Dushanbe before going off the grid in the Fann Mountains. Stop along historical villages of Pendjikent and Istaravshan before exiting through the bordertown Oybek.

Interest Off The Grid

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Price Per Person: From $5,000

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Natural & Manmade Wonders of Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

There’s a world of culture, history and nature waiting to be uncovered by those daring enough to be different. This two-week itinerary through Uzbekistan and Tajikistan offers exactly that - something a little different. A truly memorable 14-day trip through this fascinating yet often overlooked part of the world.

Interests Architecture, Amazing Landscapes

Destinations Uzbekistan, Tajikistan

Duration: 14 days / 13 nights

Price Per Person: From $7,300

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Pamir Highway: Tajikistan Loop

Roadtrippers with a sense of adventure and a love of culture are enchanted by the sights and delights along the M41, the highway that cuts right through the Pamir Mountains. One of Tajikistan’s most beloved destinations, explorers on the Pamir highway will be delighted by the local lifestyle, the pretty mountain towns and the breathtaking scenery.

This itinerary takes you along the Pamir Highway within Tajikistan, starting from Dushanbe and reaching Murghab before looping back to Dushanbe.

Interest Off The Grid

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Price Per Person: From $4,500

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Pan-Stans: Country Collecting in Central Asia

This tour of the Silk Road “Stans” takes you through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan in just two short weeks. Designed specifically for those looking to dip toes into each destination rather than explore in depth, this itinerary ensures luxury and comfort in a part of the world that can be tricky to country-hop without expert guidance.

Interests Architecture, Heritage

Destinations Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan

Duration: 14 days / 13 nights

Price Per Person: From $10,600

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The Hidden World of Tajikistan

Over 13 days, this tour will take you on a historic journey through the culture-rich country of Tajikistan. From ancient rock carvings to historic monuments that have stood for centuries, this itinerary guarantees to give you a glimpse of a rare and unseen lifestyle, untouched by the outside world.

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Price Per Person: From $4,100

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Epic Tajikistan Trek: Lakes, Mountains & Valleys

This thrilling 16-day trek through Tajikistan will take you through some of the most incredible natural scenery the country has to offer. You’ll start in Dushanbe, traveling through the majestic Fann mountains and beyond, stopping to picnic and camp high in the sky in total serenity.

Interest Trekking

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 16 days / 15 nights

Price Per Person: From $4,400

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Land of the Seven Lakes: Natural Beauty of Tajikistan

This thrilling 11-day journey through Tajikistan starts off in the country’s capital, where you’ll explore its historic museums and markets, before heading off on a challenging and rewarding trek through mountains, passes, canyons, valleys, and lakes, boasting some of the most incredible beauty Mother Nature has to offer.

Interest Trekking

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 11 days / 10 nights

Price Per Person: From $3,000

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Trekking Over the Roof of the World in Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains

Explore a hidden and untouched beauty and connect with the natural elements which dominate Central Asia with this 19-day trekking tour of Tajikistan’s Pamir mountains. After passing over high peaks and crossing rocky terrain, you’ll discover natural springs, ancient villages and historic sites for an unforgettable experience.

Interests Trekking, Unesco

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 19 days / 18 nights

Price Per Person: From $5,800

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Trekking Tajikistan's Fann Mountains: Seven Lakes to Artuch

Lace up your hiking boots for this exciting adventure, as you trek into the countryside of Tajikistan. This challenging and rewarding journey will take you through the Fann mountains and passes by day, camping in the great outdoors by night.

Interest Trekking

Destination Tajikistan

Duration: 16 days / 15 nights

Price Per Person: From $4,400

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Two-Week Tajikistan Trek: A Fortnight in the Fanns

An unforgettable two-week adventure into the heartland of Tajikistan’s most popular beauty spot. The Fann mountains have it all: flora, fauna, rocky gorges and grassy meadows. Spend fourteen days trekking and climbing to scenic peaks and camping overnight by stunning glacial lakes.

Interest Trekking

Destinations Tajikistan, Uzbekistan

Duration: 14 days / 13 nights

Price Per Person: From $4,100

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Hyatt Regency Dushanbe

Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Set in the heart of Tajikistan’s capital city of Dushanbe, the Hyatt Regency boasts luxury five-star accommodation, reflecting the country’s unique culture throughout its generously-sized suites. Located on the grounds of the city park and near to the stunning lake Komsomol, this hotel boasts not only stunning urban surrounds, but is also conveniently located to reach many local attractions by foot and the international airport is just four miles away. It is one of the most beautifully-appointed hotels in Dushanbe and one of the finest luxury properties throughout the whole of Tajikistan. Boasting over 200 luxury rooms and suites over three accommodation options, the hotel is proud to maintain a distinctive theme that runs throughout to encompass the local Tajik culture so prevalent in this region. One of the best restaurants in the city is also featured here, where creative cuisine combined with sophisticated surroundings provide an elegant retreat. There is enough to keep guests occupied at the hotel during their stay relaxing in the heated, indoor pool to the unwinding in the tranquil surroundings of the spa.

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Hilton Dushanbe

Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Only 15 minutes from the city center and even fewer from the capital's international airport, the Hilton Dushanbe is a convenient and high-end option for exploring the city. The property is comprised of 145 accommodations over eight room and suite types, all furnished in a modern style with standard amenities. Facilities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a business center. Dining options include In Asia (Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, and Indonesian cuisines), the Lobby Bar, SOHO Bar, and Zaitoun (European and Mediterranean).

Hotel Tajikistan

Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Nestled in the center of Dushanbe, Hotel Tajikistan is the largest in the city and offers an immaculate and comfortable stay to all its guests. Built in the 1970s, the hotel has been recently refurbished to provide contemporary accommodation while still encompassing local Tajik traditions. All rooms are well-appointed and provide modern amenities. Thanks to its convenient location, just a short walk away from the hotel will take its guests into the city and to many local tourist attractions and the airport is a short drive away. In addition to its on-site dining options, guest can also make use of the fitness facilities and sauna.

Serena Hotel

Dushanbe, Tajikistan

This luxury hotel in the center of Dushanbe is one of the city's more modern options. As soon as you step inside the grand lobby with its traditional Tajik features, it's clear that plenty of time and effort have gone into the hotel's design. There's a choice of serviced apartments or deluxe double rooms, all with 24-hour room service, large comfortable beds, TV and internet. The great location of the Serena, situated on the main boulevard at the center of Dushanbe, offers a stunning backdrop, surrounded by a lush garden and mountains in the distance. It also provides ease of access to the city's attractions, such as the National Art Museum, cinemas and the opera theater, and is just a 10-minute drive from the international airport.

Multi-Country Specialists

Tajikistan Goes Well With

Uzbekistan

Kyrgyzstan

Turkmenistan

Kazakhstan

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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

Truly remote: Tajikistan’s Bartang Valley

Author: Dave Stamboulis

This highlight of the Pamir Highway features jagged peaks, a rushing river, and timeless Tajik culture

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Fann Mountains: Hiking Tajikistan’s Glacial Lake Loop

Author: John McMahon

If you dream of hiking the Haft Kul, or Lake Loop, of the Fann Mountains for the crystal blue waters and lonely trails, this piece will get you started.

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Faces of the Wakhan Valley

Author: Jay Tindall

The history of the Wakhi people and the Wakhan Valley is complex, and the journey across the Pamir Highway can be unpredictable, barren, and cold. In the faces of the Wakhi people, there is warmth.

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