The Basics
Country: Tajikistan
Where is it?: Tajikistan is in central Asia, west of China.
Why do people go here?: Most true hardcore mountain lovers come to Tajikistan to check out some of the biggest peaks in the world.
What are the main entry points?: Most travelers reach Tajikistan from flights for India. There’s also a railway from Tashkent to Dushanbe.
Currency used: Somoni
Country Code for Phones: 992
Area codes for Major Cities: Dushanbe 372
Religion: Sunni Muslim 85%, Shi’a Muslim 5%, other 10%
Population: 7.3 million
Ethnic Groups: Tajik 64.9%, Uzbek 25%, Russian 3.5% (declining because of emigration), other 6.6%
Government: Republic
Languages: Tajik (official), Russian
Travel Information
Major Cities: Dushanbe, Khojand
Attractions: Khojand
Accomodation: Asia Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Tajikistan Tourism Office
Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Pamirs
Health Issues: hepatitis, altitude sickness, Cholera, diphtheria, typhoid
Tips for Visiting
When to go: With dramatic season, the best times to visit are both spring and autumn.
Common Phrases: Yes=Ha; No=Ne; OK=Mailesh; Thank you=Rahmat/Tashakkur; I didn’t understand=Na fahmidam; Hello!=Salom alekum!; How are you?=Shumo chi khel?; I’m fine= Man naghz
Specific Events/Holidays: New Year’s Day: January 1, International Women’s Day: March 8, Labour Day: May 1, Various Islamic Holidays
Getting Around: Traveling around Tajikistan can be a pan the butt – figuratively and literally. There are a few planes with services between Khojand, Khorog, and Dushanbe. There are buses that sometimes can reach major destinations, but expect problems – almost always.
Good to know: Tajikistan means the Land of the Tajiks.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Tajikistan is the Dushanbe Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Tajikistan travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
