Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the wonders of Tajikistan with our Classic Tajikistan Tour. This adventure offers a perfect blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Discover the timeless treasures of the Great Silk Road as you explore the cities of Khujand, Penjikent, and Istaravshan, each rich in Zoroastrian heritage and historical significance.
Begin your tour in Dushanbe, the bustling capital, where modern life and ancient history coexist. Visit the National Museum of Antiquities and marvel at the famous Buddha statue. Walk through lively local bazaars, and step back in time with a visit to the Hissar Fortress. Travel to Khujand and Istaravshan, where you’ll immerse yourself in centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and the enchanting Mug Teppe settlement.
The tour’s highlight includes visits to the stunning Seven Lakes and Lake Iskanderkul, where the serene landscapes will captivate your senses. With each lake displaying unique hues of turquoise and purple, the natural beauty of the Fan Mountains is truly spectacular. You’ll even spend a night in the picturesque village of Saritag, experiencing the local way of life.
This adventure promises a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature, making it an ideal escape for travelers eager to uncover the soul of Tajikistan. Whether you’re trekking through ancient ruins, exploring colorful lakes, or enjoying traditional Tajik hospitality, this tour is designed to offer an authentic and enriching experience. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure!
Upon arriving in Dushanbe in the morning, you’ll be welcomed by our driver and transferred to your hotel. After a short rest, you will begin your city tour of Tajikistan’s capital and largest city. This bustling city serves as the perfect starting point to understand the blend of modernity and tradition in Tajikistan.
Your first stop will be the Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region. The museum houses the famous Buddha in Nirvana statue, one of the country’s most revered cultural artifacts. Following this, you’ll visit the Botanical Garden, a favorite spot among locals, and take a stroll through the vibrant local bazaar to experience the daily life of Dushanbe’s residents. In the afternoon, a 30 km drive outside the city will bring you to the remnants of the 18th-century Hissar Fortress, an important historical monument. You’ll also visit two ancient madrasas and a mausoleum nearby before returning to Dushanbe for an overnight stay at your hotel.
In the morning, your adventure continues as you depart from Dushanbe and head towards Khujand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. This 300 km journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and offers scenic views along the way, including a thrilling drive through the Anzob Tunnel. You’ll stop for lunch at a traditional Chaikhana, a local teahouse, where you can savor regional dishes.
In the afternoon, you’ll pass through the Shakhristan Tunnel and make a stop in Istaravshan, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Here, you’ll explore the local bazaar, brimming with colorful stalls and goods. You will also visit the Hazrat Shah architectural complex, which includes the mausoleum of the brother of Kusam ibn Abbas, the Hazrat Shah Mausoleum, and the Khudayar Valami Mausoleum. The tour continues with a visit to the 19th-century Namazgah Mosque and Mug Teppe, one of Istaravshan’s ancient settlements believed to have been founded by King Cyrus the Great. By late afternoon, you will arrive in Khujand, where you’ll have free time to explore before settling in for the night at a local hotel.
Meet your guide in the morning and start your full-day tour of Khujand. Begin by visiting the Museum of Archeology and Fortification, followed by a stop at Shaikh Muslihiddin Mosque. Explore the famous Panjshanbe Bazaar, Tajikistan’s largest market, brimming with colorful goods and local produce. In the afternoon, visit the grand Arbob Palace, named after S. Urunhodlaev and built in the 20th century. Complete your day with a visit to the “Tajik Sea,” the Kayraccum Hydro Power Station, symbolizing the People’s Friendship. After a day full of historical and cultural discoveries, spend the night at a hotel in Khujand.
In the morning, travel to Penjikent, covering a distance of 260 km over 5-6 hours. Upon arrival, check into your guesthouse and meet your guide for a city tour. Start with the Rudaki Museum, dedicated to the famous Tajik poet Abu Abdallah Rudaki, who is considered the father of Persian poetry. The tour continues with a visit to the ancient ruins of Penjikent, once a thriving Sogdian city. The 5th-century site reveals remnants of houses, Zoroastrian fire temples, and a bustling bazaar. Spend the night at a guesthouse.
Today, embark on a day trip to the spectacular Seven Lakes of the Fan Mountains, located 80 km from Penjikent. These enchanting lakes, also known as the Marguzor Lakes, are each distinct in color, ranging from tranquil turquoise to vibrant purple. Along the way, pass through the UNESCO-listed Sarazm settlement, one of the oldest in Central Asia. At the final lake, Khoazorchashma, enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Return to Penjikent in the evening for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Depart Penjikent in the morning and journey toward Saritag, passing by Lake Iskanderkul, one of the most picturesque spots in the country. According to local legend, the lake is named after Alexander the Great, or «Iskander» in the East, who is said to have traveled this way during his campaign to India. Spend time exploring the serene lake and its surroundings, taking in the natural beauty of this unique location. Arrive in the village of Saritag in the late afternoon, where you will stay overnight at a charming guesthouse.
After breakfast, depart from Saritag and head back to Dushanbe, a 160 km journey that takes approximately 3-4 hours. Upon arrival in the capital, you will have free time to explore the city at your leisure, revisit your favorite spots, or shop for souvenirs. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel in Dushanbe.
On your final day, check out of your hotel at noon and enjoy some free time until your transfer to Dushanbe Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your enriching and adventurous journey through the history, culture, and natural wonders of Tajikistan.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $2600 | $1550 | $1250 | $1100 | $1000 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation
All transportation throughout the tour English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights 7 nights hotel/guesthouse accommodation (shared double/twin room) Full board
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa
I had high expectations for the Classic Tajikistan Tour, and it didn’t disappoint! The itinerary was diverse and well-paced, with a great balance of historical sites and natural wonders. I particularly enjoyed visiting Rudaki’s Museum in Penjikent and exploring the busy markets. The journey through the mountains was breathtaking, and the overnight stay in Saritag allowed us to experience local hospitality firsthand. The guide and driver were friendly and professional, making the trip enjoyable. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Tajikistan’s rich culture and stunning scenery.
The Classic Tajikistan Tour was an amazing journey! From the bustling city of Dushanbe to the serene mountain lakes, the variety was incredible. One of the best parts was exploring the ancient Sogdian ruins of Penjikent, a site rich with history. The Fan Mountains and Seven Lakes were mesmerizing, and the picnic by the last lake was the perfect touch. Our guide was fantastic, sharing fascinating stories and facts about Tajikistan’s history and traditions. It was a wonderful way to discover this hidden gem of Central Asia. Highly recommended!
My husband and I took the Classic Tajikistan Tour, and we were blown away! The combination of historical sites, like Khujand and Penjikent, with the natural beauty of the Fan Mountains and Iskanderkul was perfect. Each day brought something new and exciting. The highlight was our picnic by the vibrant Seven Lakes, which was simply magical. Our guide was exceptional, providing us with insights into Tajik culture and history. We also enjoyed interacting with locals and tasting traditional food at the teahouses. A must-do tour for culture and nature lovers!
I recently completed the Classic Tajikistan Tour, and it was an unforgettable experience! The landscapes are breathtaking, especially the stunning Seven Lakes and the peaceful beauty of Iskanderkul Lake. The tour was well-organized, and our guide was very knowledgeable about Tajikistan’s history and culture. Highlights for me were visiting Penjikent’s ancient ruins and seeing the impressive Hissar Fortress. The local food was delicious, and it was fascinating to meet the locals in Saritag village. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a unique cultural experience in Central Asia.