Khudjand
The second-largest city of Tajikistan and one of the oldest in central Asia, Khujand lies at the mouth of the lush and verdant Ferghana Valley, in the northern tip of the country, arranged around the Syrdarya river. Its strategic position made it an important stop on the ancient Silk Road and today it's a popular hub for visitors travelling in and out to Zeravshan or Dushanbe or as a crossing point for Uzbekistan.
Visitors deciding to linger and spend a little time in the city will find a true taste of Tajik life, from the hustle and bustle, sights and smells of the Thursday bazaar, to the architectural nods to Khujand's interesting and colorful history. Green parks, perfect for strolling and idling away the evening enjoying the beautiful fountain shows, contain historical monuments, while the ruined fortress contains a museum charting the story of the surrounding region. Friendly locals serve up cheap, authentic Tajik cuisine or pile onto buses for leisurely days by the water of the Syrdarya reservoir.
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.
Ismail Somoni monument
In the place of honor where the old statue of Lenin once stood, this new monument stands proudly on a hill, overlooking the city and the river, surrounded by grand fountains. Every evening there is an impressive water show with lights and music.
Kairakum Reservoir
Just outside the city, the Syrdarya river feeds into a great reservoir. Locals take a short, 30 minute bus ride from near the bazaar to spend sunny days by the water. A small man-made beach is attended by various charming eateries and the water is warm and perfect for swimming and bathing in summer.
Khujand Fortress and museum
Once a grand and mighty fortress, built to fortify this strategically important city, the fortress is now in ruins. However, some of its former grandeur is restored in a small renovated section which houses the historical museum of Sughd, with artifacts and exhibitions about the region’s colorful history.
Lenin Statue
The once hallowed and now relocated statue of Lenin may have been moved since the Soviet era ended, but it’s still the largest statue of the man in all central Asia. Once the pride of the city, then called Leninabad, the statue now stands in a modest park, next to a Tajik war memorial.
Panchshanbe Bazaar
In a large Stalin-era building, the city gathers every Thursday for one of the largest covered markets in central Asia. This is a great place to snap up bargains, souvenirs and delicious, cheap, local food, and to experience the bustle of real local life.
Tajikistan Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.
Pamir Highway
Northeast
Dushanbe
Multi-Country Specialists
Tajikistan Goes Well With
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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, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
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
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.
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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