Journey to Tajikistan: Discovering the Authentic Heart of Central Asia
It was a scorching hot August afternoon when my group and I landed at Dushanbe airport arriving from Almaty. We were about to embark on a new adventure in Tajikistan, the third stop on our journey through the Five Stans of the Silk Road with G Adventures.
My initial impressions were that we entered a new modern city steeped in history, with its mix of historic buildings, mosques everywhere and welcoming locals. I sensed that Tajikistan promised a unique, and off-the beaten path adventure across this fascinating country.
Situated in Central Asia, Tajikistan lies at the southernmost end of the Silk Road, bordered by Afghanistan to the south and Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan to the north. A former republic of the Soviet Union, it gained independence in 1991 after the dissolution of the Soviet regime.
Tajikistan stands out among the Silk Road countries for offering an authentic cultural experience, yet it remains one of the least visited by Western tourists. The country boasts warm hospitality, rugged mountainous landscapes, and delicious cuisine.
The Tajik people, with their cultural influences from Persian and Afghan tribes are predominately Muslim, with 96.4% of the population practicing Islam.
Our journey began with a walking tour of Dushanbe led by our knowledgable guide, Kamila, and her local assistant, Hamid. The city impressed us with its blend of modern architecture, Soviet era buildings and its iconic large flagpole, symbolic in Central Asia.
The following morning we embarked on a half day adventure into the Fann Mountains of Tajikistan. Characterized by their raw, dry and rocky terrain, these mountains dominate approximately 90% of the country’s geographical landscape. Along the way, we stopped for photo opportunities, marvelling at the breathtaking views that resembled scenes from National Geographic.
Deep in the mountainous countryside lies the iconic Iskanderkul Lake, named after Alexander The Great, who passed through Tajikistan during his conquests. Situated approximately 2195 metres above sea level on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range and Fann Mountains, Iskanderkul captivated us with its bright blue waters and tranquil surroundings. We enjoyed a group picnic by the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere before continuing our journey to Gazza Village, where we were warmly welcomed by a local Tajik family.
The next morning, we embarked on a hike in the Fann Mountains, eventually reaching Voru, a small village nestled high in the mountains. With its population of 1000 people, Voru charmed us with its clay buildings and the genuine hospitality of its residents. We were treated to warm tea and learned about the daily lives of the locals, providing us with a deeper appreciation for Tajik culture.
One of the most memorable moments was interacting with a large family of ten children whom smiles and positivity left a lasting impression on the group and I. We were treated to a delicious plov dish for lunch, a hearty meal that reflected the generosity of our hosts.
As night fell, we ventured onto the roof of the guesthouse to gaze at the crystal-clear night sky, mesmerized by the sight of shooting stars streaking across the heavens.
Departing from Gazza Village was bittersweet as the little daughter of our host waved goodbye with genuine fondness. We made a stop in the town of Istarvashan to visit a large fortress once conquered by Alexander The Great, a reminder of Tajikistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Our final destination was Khujand, where we were treated to a comfortable hotel room after two nights of camping in the mountains. Located on the Syr Darya River, Khujand enchanted us with its lively atmosphere and vibrant street life. A chance encounter with a professional footballer from Croatia and his teammate from Bosnia added an unexpected touch of excitement to our stay.
As I explored the bustling streets of Khujand, I returned to my hotel lobby where I encountered a group of Tajiks attending a conference with the Red Crescent, the Islamic equivalent of the Red Cross. Inspired by my travels through Tajikistan, they shared their stories and experiences, further enriching my journey.
My group and I took a leisurely stroll through the bazaar, soaking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this vibrant market before heading out to prepare for the arduous border crossing into Uzbekistan, where I would experience one of my main Central Asia highlights.
As our time in Tajikistan came to an end, I reflected on the incredible experiences and unforgettable memories we had created.
Overall, that is all Five Stans of the Silk Road tour. I looked forward to embarking on new adventures and exploring different cultures and landscapes in the Balkans and Eastern Europe.