Curator’s statement
Tajikistan is such a unique melting pot - it’s a curious mix of Soviet, Persian and Turkic influences. Its capital, Dushanbe, has all the trappings of a world renowned city- massive museums, wide avenues, verdant parks, gold gilded statues- without the population of one. Dushanbe’s name comes from its past legacy as the location of Monday markets, and this down-to-earth feeling still remains despite the grandiose accents. Outside the city, Iskanderkul is the most beautiful lake I’ve ever seen- and I’ve seen a lot of lakes! It’s worth spending a day or two outside the city to get a sense of Tajikistan’s landscapes and the culture found in its rural areas.
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Day 1: Arrive in Dushanbe & explore
Stroll through Rudaki Park, past the impressive Somoni Monument and Flagpole Plaza.
Visit the National Museum of Tajikistan to learn about the country's history and culture.
Stop by the Mehrgon Bazaar or Green Market for local snacks and handicrafts.
Visit the Hisor Fortress (30–40 mins outside the city) for a glimpse of Tajikistan’s pre-Soviet past.
Dinner at a traditional chaikhana (teahouse) like Rohat Teahouse.
Overnight in Dushanbe
Day 2: Day trip – hike to the Shirkent Dinosaur Tracks
Drive ~2 hours to the Shirkent Valley, part of the Shirkent National Park.
Hike through scenic canyons and past mountain streams to reach dinosaur footprints preserved in limestone, estimated to be over 150 million years old.
Keep an eye out for beehives and locals selling their delicious honey!
Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the river.
Reach out to me to book a local tour operator who will manage the transport, food and even a donkey porter for you
Return to Dushanbe in the late afternoon
Overnight in Dushanbe
Day 3: Dushanbe to Iskanderkul Lake
Drive 4–5 hours north through the Varzob Gorge and Anzob Tunnel to Iskanderkul, a beautiful alpine lake named after Alexander the Great.
Visit the "Fan Niagara" waterfall, Snake Lake and the lake’s viewpoint.
Enjoy the serene landscape, fresh mountain air and possibly a dip if weather permits.
Dinner and stargazing in the mountains.
Overnight in a guesthouse or lakeside lodge
Day 4: Morning at Iskanderkul & return to Dushanbe
Take a relaxed morning walk or swim, or liaise with a local boat operator to take a cruise across the lake's glassy water.
Return to Dushanbe by late afternoon (allow ~5 hours for the drive).
Depart in the evening or stay one final night if your flight is the next day.
Overnight in Dushanbe or depart
Need to know
Tips:
The best season to visit is May–October (Iskanderkul is snowed in during winter).
Roads to Iskanderkul and Shirkent are rough in places — ideally go with a 4WD or local driver.
Bring good hiking shoes, sun protection and cash (limited ATMs outside Dushanbe.)
If you’d like to explore more of the country, some additional ideas are:
Drive to Khujand, stopping en route at Istaravshan, one of Tajikistan’s oldest cities which has madrasas, mosques and the city bazaar. In Khujand, visit the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mosque, Historical Museum and the Panjshanbe Bazaar.
Drive back to Dushanbe via the scenic route, aka over Anzob Pass which has stunning mountain views.
Spend a day at the Nurek Reservoir, a popular local escape with boat rides and fresh fish.
Head into Varzob Valley for a hike and picnic in lush, mountainous scenery.
Travel Advisor
Cassidy Hazelbaker
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