Overview

A Tajikistan vacation may have a lot to offer. It is bordered by Pakistan, Afghanistan and China, as well as Uzbekistan. The country is a high desert region with an arid temperament. It is know officially as the Republic of Tajikistan. The name of the country means "land of the Tajiks" in Persian. Tajikistan is a country of culture and tradition with deep roots and it has been occupied continuously since 4,000 BC.

A Tajikistan vacation is not your average vacation. In 2008, the country saw one of the harshest winters on record. Financial losses amounted to at least $850 million. Russia pledged $1 billion in emergency aid to help with the losses. Saudi Arabia sent 91 tons of emergency supplies and relief to Tajikistan. There is a great potential for hydroelectric power in Tajikistan. It is home to the Nurek power station with the tallest dam in the world. The country is also a member of the Economic Cooperation Organization. This organization involves 10 countries and seeks to promote trade within the participating nations.

Activities & Attractions

It is a great destination for adventure travel. From mountaineering and hiking to

rock climbing and horse riding, there are many activities to get your adrenaline running. Mountaineering enthusiasts can head off to Peak Somoni, Peak Lenin or Peak Korzhenevskaya. For those who like alpine climbing, high level walking tours and lakeland scenery, the Fann Mountains are ideal. The Wakhan Valley is ideal for people who like to explore on foot.

Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan, is considered to be the best looking capital in Central Asia with its backdrop of mountains, tree-lined avenues, and neoclassical buildings. You can buy attractive Tajik goods at the popular Barakat covered market. You can see stuffed animals and ex-Soviet memorabilia on display at the Tajikistan Unified Museum. The Ethnographic Museum has a great collection of traditional handicrafts. You can also visit the Rokhat Teahouse, Gissar Fortress, Aini Square and Memorial Complex, or the Ramit Nature Reserve. You can also visit the Nurek Power Station with the tallest artificial dam in the world.

Lodging

Tajikistan has many eco-friendly hotels as well as resorts, bed & breakfasts, inns, and so on. One of the popular choices is the Tajikistan Hotel, which is located at a convenient distance from the railway station and the airport.

Transportation

There are no rental car agencies in Tajikistan. Bringing your own may be a valid option. The country will charge an import tax and require you to register the vehicle. Driving is done on the right hand side of the road. You must carry third-party liability insurance in case of accident. This is available for purchase in Tajikistan.

In addition to required passports and Visas, there may be other documentation required depending on which part of Tajikistan you are visiting. Check with the Embassy before you leave your home country to vacation in Tajikistan for any paperwork that may be required both at home and in Tajikistan.