Childukhtaron
Childukhtaron (literally “Forty Girls” in Tajik) is a special rock formation near the Muminobod District in southern Khatlon province, about 250 kilometers south of Dushanbe. The site is one of the geological highlights in the Khatlon province. Childukhtaron has good access roads, so there no reason to skip it if you are around!
Legend has it
The site comprises pyramid-like rock spires that, according to local legend, once were 40 young girls. Facing invasion and the threat of capture, they prayed to retain their honor, and were miraculously turned into stone as a means of preservation. Each spring, villagers honor these figures for their patriotism and resistance by decorating the formations with flowers and ribbons. Whether the myth is rooted in truth or simply a powerful story passed down through generations remains to be seen, but there is no denying that it adds a sense of mystery to Childukhtaron.
Nature
Beyond its mythic status, Childukhtaron is also an officially established wildlife sanctuary, created in 1959 and spanning approximately 14.600 hectares of mountainous terrain, valleys and hilly tracks in the Hazrati Shoh range. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, when the hills are green and the temperatures are ideal for hiking.
Visit
Childukhtaron is accessible by well-maintained paved roads, with routes leading in from Muminabad (south) and Khovaling (west). There is no public transportation available to the area, however, and shared car services can be difficult to arrange, as it is not a common route for local travel.
Accommodation options include a five-star hotel apart from some other guest houses. If you are interested to visit Childukhtaron, feel free to reach out to us and we can help to organize a tour!
