ARRIVAL DAY

Until 16:00 (4:00 p.m.) – We'll be delighted to welcome you at Dushanbe International Airport and provide transportation to your hotel.

DUSHANBE – the capital of the Republic of Tajikistan, it was listed on the world map at the beginning of the 20th century as a political and administrative center. Located in the scenic and fertile Hissar Valley at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level, Dushanbe is a city with a rich history that has survived both happy and woeful days in the past. Today, there is a strong desire to restore the capital's former glory, a city that has always welcomed curious tourists and businesspeople.

You'll have some free time, and if you'd like, we can organize an evening tour of the city's main avenues (by transport).

DUSHANBE EXCURSION, central avenues

09:00 – We'll pick up tourists from the hotel after breakfast and head to the Ismoil Somoni Complex

Today we'll be visiting so many amazing places! We'll be going to the Ismoil Somoni Complex, the National Library, Rudaki Park, Flagpole Square, the Nation Palace (outside), Navruzgoh Park, the National Museum of Tajikistan, Victory Park, and Siyoma Mall.

Ismoil Somoni Complex

This Complex is a site that features the Ismoil Somoni Monument and Dusti Square. The monument to Ismail Somoni was erected in honor of the founder of the statehood of the Tajik people. Somoni served as the head of the Samanid state from the eighth to the ninth centuries. The monument stands at an imposing 11.5 meters in height, with an arch that soars 40 meters above, a symbol of the Eastern state's rich heritage.

National Library of Tajikistan

The National Library is the country's primary library, with a focus on preserving the cultural heritage of the Tajik people. The original state library in Dushanbe was established in 1933 and named after the Persian-Tajik writer Firdowsi. The new library building opened in March 2012 and was given a new official name. The new building features 15 reading rooms and more than 20 departments. The library fund currently comprises over 6 million copies of books, newspapers, magazines, and other printed publications, as well as audiovisual and electronic materials.

Rudaki Park

Rudaki park is strategically located in the heart of Dushanbe, with its eastern side bordering the city's main thoroughfare, Rudaki Avenue, and its southern side overlooking the Palace of the Nation. The park encompasses an area of 8 hectares. The park is named after the renowned poet Abuabdullo Rudaki, the father of the Persian language, and the founder of Tajik classical literature.

The Nation Palace (outside)

The Palace is the official residence of the President of Tajikistan. Construction on the palace began in 2000. It serves as the venue for all significant political events, including the reception of high-ranking political figures such as heads of states, presidents, heads of international organizations, and ambassadors.

Flagpole square

Flag Square is located in the heart of Dushanbe, adjacent to the National Palace. This flagpole is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest flagpole in the world. It stands at an impressive 165 meters in height, with a base area of 1,800 square meters. Its width is 30 meters, and it extends 60 meters in length.

Navruzgoh Park

Park, which opened in 2014 in honor of the international holiday of Navruz, is a 15-hectare site that features a variety of trees and plants, including pine, viburnum, lilac, cedar, fir, juniper, magnolia, sycamore, chestnut, and red maple. Despite its proximity to the center, the park boasts a unique atmosphere. The park features abundant greenery, including trees and fountains, as well as a waterfall known as "Sharshara." This park is an ideal destination for families with children and offers a pleasant walking experience, suitable for both foot and bicycle traffic. The park is particularly beautiful in the evening.

13:00 – Lunch in national restaurant (own)

National Museum of Tajikistan

The National Museum of Tajikistan boasts an impressive exposition area of 15,000 square meters and features 22 exhibition halls, including departments dedicated to natural history, antiquities, medieval history, modern history, and fine and applied arts. The museum's recently renovated exhibition hall features a curated collection of artifacts, plants, and animals, representing the rich cultural heritage of all regions of Tajikistan. The collection now boasts over 50,000 items, making it a significant repository of cultural and natural heritage.

Rudaki Avenue

Rudaki Avenue is a major thoroughfare that traverses the heart of Dushanbe, running from north to south. The street is home to numerous government buildings that oversee the country's operations, as well as commercial establishments, city squares, universities, residential apartments, and restaurants. The avenue is shaded by lush trees and features a central tree-lined boulevard, providing a pleasant and sheltered environment during the summer months.

Victory Park

The Victory Park complex was inaugurated to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, though its architectural and sculptural memorial was constructed in 1975. The central area features an eternal flame, an alley of Heroes with high-relief sculptures, and a monument to Mother. At the base of the stairway is a granite slab inscribed with the names of Tajik soldiers who were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. The Victory Park complex is a popular vacation destination for residents.

Siyoma Mall

The Siyoma Mall, in Tajikistan's capital, is the second largest and most opulent shopping center in the country after the renowned Dushanbe Mall. This remarkable institution belongs to the Avesto Corporation group, a diverse conglomerate. The Siyoma Mall stands out as a unique architectural masterpiece. The project's initial goal was to create a large-scale shopping and entertainment center where people could go shopping, eat, and have a great time. The "Siyoma Mall" shopping center can receive up to 5,000 visitors a day, who will be able to spend time in comfort. The "Kohi Parfenon" is the star of the show: a stunning white restaurant building that captures the essence of Greek architecture. At Siyoma Mall, we've created a space where you can indulge in both shopping and leisure.  

DUSHANBE EXCURSION, culture attractions

09:00 – We'll pick up tourists from the hotel after breakfast and head to visiting places including  Kokhi (Palace) Navruz, Eram Garden, Imam A’zam Mosque, Istiqlol (Independence) Monument and Istiqlol Square, Mausoleum of Mavlono Yaqubi Charkhi, Ayni Park, and Mehrgon Bazar

Kokhi (Palace) Navruz

Navruz Palace is a newly constructed building comprising 12 distinctive halls, each crafted in a unique national style. It boasts a capacity of up to 3,200 guests. All the halls of the palace have been adorned by local artisans, showcasing a variety of craftsmanship techniques. These include wood carvings, Florentine mosaics crafted from local semi-precious stones, and mosaics of colored mirrors. The ceilings are adorned with intricate paintings. The walls are adorned with scenes from ancient legends, and the ceilings feature patterns made of wood in the old style. Navruz Palace stands out for its grandeur and modern luxury, serving as a venue for significant political events of the country and international meetings.

Istiqlol (Independence) Monument and Square

The Istiqlol (Independence) Monument and Istiqlol Square were inaugurated in September 2022. The 121-meter height of the Istiqlol monument is symbolic: the lower part of the 30-meter complex symbolizes the 30th anniversary of state independence, and the upper part, which is 91 meters, represents independence in 1991. The total area of the Istiqlol complex is 11,900 square meters, with the construction area covering 4,761 square meters. The upper part of the complex features an 8-meter crown made of titanium, which symbolizes statehood, independence, state development, civilization, and the rich history of the ancient Tajik people. The octagonal base of the complex features seven entrances, and the design incorporates the symbol of the "Tree of Life" as a foundation, representing and embodying broader concepts.

Imam Azam Mosque

The Abu Hanifa Imam Azam Central Cathedral Mosque, located on the northern outskirts of Dushanbe. This mosque can accommodate more than 180,000 people at once. It is the largest religious site built in Tajikistan during the years of independence, and the largest mosque in Central Asia by area. The mosque's area encompasses 12 hectares (0.12 km2). The mosque complex includes rooms for prayer, meetings, and reception, in addition to two libraries, a museum, and a conference hall. The mosque can accommodate 133,000 worshippers at a time, with 43,000 able to fit inside the mosque and the remainder surrounding it.

13:00 – Lunch in national restaurant (own)

Iram Garden

Iram Garden is strategically located in the northern part of Dushanbe. The garden area encompasses 40 hectares, with the main entrance situated on the east side. It boasts an extensive collection of plants from all over the world, including rare species listed in the Red Book. The glass greenhouse is accessible via an alley, which serves as the starting point for the garden's alleys and paths. The garden offers a serene and enjoyable environment for families and friends. The garden also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events of national and global significance.

Mausoleum of hazrat Mavlono Yaqubi Charkhi

The Mausoleum of Mavlon Yaqubi Charkhi is located in the western part of Dushanbe. Yaqub Ibn Uthman Al-Charkhi (1359 1447) was a prominent religious figure and spiritual leader of the Sufi Tariq of Haji-Naqshbandi. He was the eighteenth in the golden chain of succession of the sheikhs of Tariqa. The mausoleum holds great significance for both the local community and visitors, serving as a site of reverence and inspiration.

Mehrgon Bazar

Mehrgan is a newly constructed, modern grocery market in Dushanbe that commenced operations in September 2014. The market boasts a total area of approximately 30,000 square meters. The market building encompasses an area of approximately 10,000 square meters. The building consists of three floors, with the ground floor dedicated to the sale of fruits, tortillas, legumes, meat, chaka, spices, and dried fruits. The market's products are notable for their environmental friendliness and high utility for health, and they are not commonly available in standard markets or supermarkets.

SUGD REGION, KHUJAND

09:00 – We'll pick up tourists from the hotel after breakfast and head to the north side of Tajikistan, the ancient city of Sugd. We'll be driving for about 3-4 hours through the stunning Varzob Valley, Hissar, alongside the dramatic Varzob River, Anzob Pass, and the majestic Fann Mountains.

Fann Mountains

Fann Mountains offer a unique destination experience, with turquoise lakes, high peaks, and ancient legends. There are over 30 stunning mountain lakes and a dozen peaks soaring over 5,000 meters in a relatively small area of 650 km². The region boasts numerous attractions, including the picturesque Zindon and Archamaydan valleys, the spectacular Big Allo Lake surrounded by imposing rock formations, the majestic Kulikalon, Alaudin, and Marguzor Lakes, the renowned Iskanderkul Lake, and the breathtaking waterfalls. The region also features the awe-inspiring Chimtarga, Energia, Chapdara, and Big Hansa Peaks, attracting hordes of trekkers and climbers from around the globe. This region is a dream destination for trekkers and climbers alike.

13:00 – Lunch on way (own)

14:00 – Arrival at Khujand and sightseeing Khujand Fortress, Kamol Khujandi Park, Khujand Cableway, Jomi Mosque and Panjshanbe Bazar

Khujand

Khujand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. It is an important transport hub, as well as a political, economic, cultural, and scientific center of the Tajikistan. The foundation of the city was laid in the VII-VI centuries BC, and it was conquered by Alexander the Great, who rebuilt and strengthened it, naming it Alexandria Eskhata (Extreme).

Khujand Fortress

The history of the fortress dates back to the VI-VII centuries A.D., making it a significant historical landmark. Its strategic location on the Syr Darya River at the mouth of the Ferghana Valley made it an important barrier against invasions throughout various historical periods. The fortress and the citadel, components of ancient Khujand, were surrounded by fortress walls and a deep moat filled with water. Today, the fortress serves as a museum, showcasing the history, culture, and people of Khujand and the surrounding Sughd region. Within its walls, visitors can explore historical artifacts, traditional crafts, and exhibits that offer insights into the daily lives of the people who have inhabited this area for millennia.

Kamol Khujandi Park

We will continue our trip to the Central Park of Khujand which is named after the renowned Tajik poet Kamol Khujandi. Within the park's premises, a monument and a museum dedicated to the poet's oeuvre have been erected.

Khujand Cableway

The 1 km-long cable car extends from the Kamoli Khujandi Culture and Recreation Park to the Ismoili Somoni Complex across the Syr Darya River. The cable car offers a fantastic way to view the city from above.

Jami Mosque

The Jami Mosque complex, a monument of folk architecture from the 16th century, is a significant landmark in the region. The mosque houses one of the largest museums of Islamic culture in Central Asia. It offers a comprehensive learning experience, providing insights into the history of Islam in the region and the cultural and religious traditions of the Tajik people. The multi-column building adjoins the eastern wall of the winter hall, which also features a multi-column design, and leads into the courtyard of the mosque.

Panjshanbe Bazar

Panjshanbe Bazar is a major tourist attraction in Khujand. The complex consists of a primary pavilion and numerous shops, tents, and adjacent structures. The architectural style of the bazaar building combines elements of classicism and Stalinist Empire style, with a harmonious execution of decorative elements inspired by both Soviet and Oriental styles. The entrance is marked by a hemispherical portal adorned with vibrant paintings, while sculptures of a man and a woman grace the exterior walls. Inside, visitors will find a long-vaulted hall with slender rows of columns.

19:00 – Accommodation to hotel  

TAJIK SEA SIGHTSEEING

09:00 – We'll pick up tourists from the hotel after breakfast and head to visiting places including Arbob Cultural Palace, City of Guliston (Qayroqqum), Tajik Sea, Bahoriston Sanatorium.

Arbob Cultural Palace 

The Arbob Cultural Palace, a building in Khujand, Tajikistan, served as the headquarters of a Soviet collective farm during the 1950s. The south wing currently functions as a museum, showcasing the history of Arbob, collectivization, and the Soviet Empire in Tajikistan. The building holds historical significance, particularly in 1992 when it hosted the Tajik Soviet meeting that officially declared independence from the Soviet Union. It was also the site where the Tajik flag was chosen and where peace conferences following the Tajik civil war were held in the late 1990s.

Tajik Sea

The Qayroqqum reservoir, which was renamed the Tajik Sea in 2016, is located in the Fergana Valley on the Syrdarya River. An area spanning 1,150 square kilometers, encompassing the reservoir and its surroundings, has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. This designation is attributed to the area's significance in supporting substantial populations of various bird species, either as permanent residents, overwintering migrants, breeding birds, or those utilizing the area for seasonal migration. The reservoir's amenities include a beachfront area, suitable for leisure activities such as swimming and relaxation. Additionally, the seashore offers services for water sports and entertainment.

13:00 – Lunch at Tajik Sea (own)

Bahoriston Sanatorium

Along the shore of the Tajik sea, lies the sanatorium "Bahoriston." The 22-hectare green area of this health resort is a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability. The property's meticulous planning includes various infrastructures, including walkways with antique street lamps, manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a summertime fountain display. The resort's healing factors, modern medical diagnostics, and experienced medical professionals allow for comprehensive treatment of various health profiles. In Bahoriston sanatorium we have time for relaxing, swimming and boating (at the request and expense of traveler).

18:00 – Back way to Khujand and accommodation to hotel

TRIP to ISTARAVSHAN & PANJAKENT

09:00 – We're heading out of Khujand today and it's going to be amazing! We'll meet up with our tourists at the hotel after breakfast and then it's off to Panjakent. We'll be visiting Istaravshan city, Handicraft Avenue, Qal’ai Mug, the Hazrati Shoh mausoleum, Panjakent city, and the ancient Sarazm.

Istaravshan

Istaravshan is a museum city and an ancient center of trade and crafts. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a history dating back 2,500 years. It is known that from the sixth to the fourth centuries BC, as crafts and trade developed in settled Asian regions, large urban-type settlements emerged. One such example is Istaravshan, formerly Kyropolis (Kurushkada), named after the founder of the Persian Empire, Kira the Great (529-559 BC). By the time Alexander the Great conquered Central Asia in the 4th century BC, Kurushkada had already grown into a substantial, well-fortified city.

Qal’ai (Castle) Mug

The Fortress, located on Mount Mug and along the banks of the Zeravshan river, is a site dating back to the 7-8 centuries. In 1933, an archaeological expedition unearthed a significant cache of documents: 74 in Sogdian, one in Arabic, and several in Chinese. The site also yielded a variety of household items, including silk, cotton, and woolen fabrics, as well as leather shoes and wooden utensils. Among the notable artifacts were weapons and coins, offering further insights into the historical significance of the site. Of particular interest is a wooden leather-covered shield bearing the image of a Sogdian warrior.

Hazrati Shoh mausoleum

The historical-architectural complex known as Hazrati-Shoh is located in the old part of the city of Istravshan. It consists of three cultural constructions: the mausoleum of Hazrati-Shoh, the mausoleum of Khudoer Valami, and the mosque of Hazrati-Shoh. Each of these constructions was erected at a different time and has a unique history of its own.

Handicraft Avenue

One of the most notable attractions of Istaravshan is the craftsmanship of its local residents and Tajik artisans. From the main market, a street of pavilions with open doors stretches across the city, where a wide variety of handmade folk crafts are presented. The street of artisans (Rastai Hunarmandon) features a wide array of handmade products, including knives, spoons, earrings, bags, and belts, each of which serves as an essential accessory for daily life. The Artisans Street offers a unique opportunity to purchase these products.

13:00 – Lunch in the Istaravshan restaurant (own) and departure to Panjakent

Panjakent

Penjikent is an administrative center in the Sughd region of the Republic of Tajikistan. Penjikent is located in the valley of the Zarafshan River east of the city of Samarkand, at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level. The city is rich in its sights, architectural monuments, a beautiful recreation area on the banks of the Zarafshan River.

Sarazm 

Sarazm - ancient city (6,500 years old) which will make you feel like you have travelled back in time. You will learn about the Arian and Persian civilizations and experience the cultures of the Arian and Sogdian societies. It's so important and valuable that Sarazm is included in the UNESCO Heritage List.

18:00 – Accommodation to hotel

TRIP to DUSHANBE

09:00 – We're heading out of Panjakent today and it's going to be amazing! We'll meet up with our tourists at the hotel after breakfast and then it's off to Dushanbe. We'll be visiting Rudaki Complex, Old Panjakent, and Seven Lakes.

Haft Kul (Seven Lakes)

Welcome to the breathtaking "Haft Kul" or "Seven Lakes"! These magnificent cascading lakes are nestled among the Fan Mountains in the northwestern part of Tajikistan, near the city of Penjikent. A group of mountain lakes will take your breath away with their bright and constantly changing colors. Each lake has its own name: the lowest lake, which travelers usually meet first, is called Mijgon, next are Soya, Hushor, Nofin, Khurdak, Marguzor (the largest) and Hazorchashma (the highest).

Rudaki Complex

The Rudaki Complex is a must-see! It's the mausoleum of the famous poet, writer, and scientist Rudaki (858-941), who founded Tajik-Persian literature. It's one of the country's most famous and popular attractions. The mausoleum is located in the small village of Panjrud, 60 kilometers east of the city of Penjikent. The mausoleum is nestled within a beautiful park, with lush green spaces surrounding it. The entrance is marked by a grand brick arch in the Persian style, with impressive wooden gates that are decorated with intricate designs. The mausoleum itself is situated in the center of the square, on a small hill, and is reached by a long staircase surrounded by trees on both sides. The mausoleum building is a fascinating polyhedron in plan, topped with a stunning hemispherical dome resting on a drum. Built of red brick, the mausoleum's dome is lined with blue tiles, reminiscent of the stunning architecture found in ancient Central Asian and Persian mosques and mausoleums. Inside, the mausoleum's centerpiece is a magnificent marble sarcophagus over his grave.

ABU ABDULLAH JAFAR RUDAKI is the brilliant founder of Persian and Tajik classical literature, the first of the renowned Persian poets who began composing poetry in the New Persian language. He is revered as the "Father of Persian Poetry" and stands at the origins of literature in this language.

Qal'ai Sanjarshoh, Old Panjakent

The Sanjarshah fortress was one of the eastern settlements of the medieval Sogd from the 5th to 8th and 9th centuries. It covers an area of 5.5 hectares, and its main parts—Shahristan, Kohandiz, and the watchtower—have been thoroughly explored. It is located in the city of Penjikent, in the village of Sujina, and is also known as the old Penjikent.

14:00 – Lunch in national restaurant (own) and departure to Dushanbe  

19:00 – Arrival at Dushanbe and accommodation to hotel

DEPARTURE DAY

07:00 – Today is the final day of our tour, and we're excited to say goodbye and look forward to seeing you again soon! After breakfast, we'll pick you up from the hotel and head to Dushanbe International Airport.