Embark on a captivating 6-day journey through Tajikistan, designed for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the rich history and diverse culture of the Tajik people. Your adventure begins in the vibrant capital city of Dushanbe, where modern life meets ancient traditions. A visit to the National Museum of Antiquities will uncover fascinating aspects of the region’s history, including the iconic statue of Buddha in Nirvana.
The journey continues with a trip to the historic Hissar Fortress, an 18th-century stronghold that offers a glimpse into Tajikistan’s storied past. From there, you’ll travel to Istaravshan, a city brimming with oriental charm. Wander through its bustling bazaars, explore ancient religious monuments, and visit the legendary Mug-Tepa, an ancient settlement believed to be founded by King Cyrus the Great.
Next, you will venture to Penjikent, a city with roots dating back to the 5th-8th centuries. Here, you’ll explore the ruins of the ancient Sogdian town and visit the birthplace of the renowned Persian poet, Rudaki. Your adventure will culminate with a visit to the stunning Lake Iskanderkul, named after Alexander the Great. Nestled in the Fann Mountains, this breathtaking lake is a highlight of the tour.
Spend a night in the peaceful village of Sarytag, where you’ll have the chance to engage with local villagers, before embarking on a scenic return journey to Dushanbe through majestic mountain landscapes. This tour is an unforgettable experience, blending history, nature, and culture into an enriching six-day exploration of Tajikistan.
Tour Highlights:
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.
After breakfast, you’ll set out for a scenic drive to the historic city of Penjikent, located 260 km away (around 5-6 hours by road). Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel before embarking on a guided tour to explore the city’s historical landmarks.
Penjikent, the birthplace of the famous poet Abu Abdallah Rudaki, holds a special place in Tajikistan’s literary heritage. Your first stop will be the Rudaki Museum, which celebrates the life and work of this great Persian poet. Next, you’ll explore the ancient ruins of Penjikent, dating back to the 5th century. Once a thriving Sogdian city, it was abandoned in the 8th century following the Arab conquest. As you walk through the remains of old houses, Zoroastrian fire temples, and the city’s ancient citadel, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The day concludes with a relaxing evening in Penjikent, where you’ll stay overnight.
On day four, your tour continues with a journey towards Lake Iskanderkul, a stunning alpine lake located in the Fann Mountains, some 240 km from Penjikent (approximately 6-7 hours of driving). According to local legend, the lake was named after Alexander the Great, known as Iskander in the East. It is believed that the conqueror passed by this lake on his way to India. The drive to Iskanderkul is scenic, with towering mountains and dramatic landscapes surrounding the road.
Upon arrival, you’ll have time to admire the beauty of the lake, known for its stunning turquoise waters. The serene atmosphere of the lake, framed by mountains, offers an ideal setting for a peaceful stop. Later in the day, you’ll proceed to the nearby village of Saritag, where you’ll experience the warm hospitality of the local community. In Saritag, you’ll stay overnight in a guest house, giving you the unique opportunity to interact with local residents and learn about their traditional way of life.
After a hearty breakfast in Saritag, you will embark on your return journey to Dushanbe. The 160 km drive will take around 3-4 hours, passing through scenic mountain landscapes. Upon arriving back in Dushanbe, the remainder of the day will be free for you to explore the city at your own pace or simply relax after the adventurous days of travel. You’ll spend the night in a hotel, enjoying your last evening in Tajikistan’s capital.
On your final day, check out from the hotel by noon and enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. When it’s time for your departure, you’ll be transferred to Dushanbe Airport for your flight home, bringing your unforgettable 6-day tour of Tajikistan to a close. Whether it was the historical sites, the warm local culture, or the majestic landscapes, you’ll leave with cherished memories of this incredible journey through Tajikistan.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $1900 | $1100 | $900 | $850 | $800 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation
All transportation throughout the tour English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights 5 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 took the Discover Tajikistan tour in May 2024, and it was an absolutely incredible experience! From the vibrant streets of Dushanbe to the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Iskanderkul, every day was filled with rich history and stunning scenery. The visit to Istaravshan’s bazaar was a highlight, as was exploring the ancient ruins of Penjikent. Our guide was knowledgeable and made each site come alive with stories and historical context. The overnight stay in Saritag village gave us a real sense of local life. It was the perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. I highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic beauty of Tajikistan!
I joined the Discover Tajikistan tour last summer, and it was a fantastic journey through the country’s rich heritage. The National Museum in Dushanbe was fascinating, but for me, the best part was visiting Lake Iskanderkul and learning about the Alexander the Great legend associated with it. The tour to Istaravshan’s Mug Teppe and Khujand’s historical landmarks was a beautiful blend of history and local culture. The pace of the tour was perfect, and the accommodations were comfortable, especially the cozy guest house in Saritag. Overall, it was an amazing experience with stunning views and great company.