Travel Tips
Tajikistan
The Pamir Highway and turquoise mountain lakes make Tajikistan one of the great overland journeys in the world.
- Capital
- Dushanbe
- Currency
- Tajikistani somoni (TJS)
- Language
- Tajik, Russian
- Best overall
- June to September
- Emergency
- Police 102, fire 101, ambulance 103
- Electricity
- 220V, plug types C and F
Top Destinations
Many nationalities can get an e-visa or visa-free stay. The Pamirs (GBAO) need an additional permit. Check the current rules for your passport. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
June to September is best for high mountain roads. Many passes are difficult or closed in the colder months.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Pamir Highway
An epic high-altitude road through remote mountains.
Dushanbe
The leafy capital and the usual starting point.
Iskanderkul
A turquoise lake in the Fann Mountains.
Seven Lakes
A chain of colorful lakes in the Fann Mountains.
Wakhan Valley
A remote valley along the Afghan border, with ancient forts.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 2 Dushanbe
- Days 3 to 4 Iskanderkul and Seven Lakes
- Days 5 to 12 Pamir Highway and Wakhan Valley, by 4×4
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Hire a 4×4 and driver through a reputable agency for the Pamirs.
- Roads can be rough, so build in spare days.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Carry cash, including clean US dollars, as ATMs are scarce in remote areas.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Qurutob: bread with yogurt sauce, the national dish.
- Plov: rice with meat and carrots.
- Green tea, served with everything.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Check your government's advice on border areas.
- Altitude is serious in the Pamirs, so acclimatize slowly and carry medication advice from a doctor.
Planning a trip to Tajikistan?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.