Dushanbe

Dushanbe transformed from a small market village into the buzzing capital city of Tajikistan in only about 100 years. With a population just below a million, Dushanbe is a Soviet-style city with a modern feel to it. The city is in continuous construction with new buildings and monuments arising at a fast pace. Dushanbe is the main gateway to Tajikistan when traveling by airplane, so most people who visit Tajikistan at some point end up in Dushanbe. Find out here 9 must-sees of the capital...

The Hisor Fortress is one of the best preserved historical sites in Tajikistan. Strategically located on a hilltop, the fortress was built around 2500 years ago. Throughout the turbulent history of the region since then, this ancient stronghold has witnessed many changes in power, being demolished and rebuilt numerous times. Less than a one hour drive from Dushanbe, the Hisor historical site is ideally suited for a day-trip from the capital for those interested in the Tajik history.

Are you in Dushanbe and want to get active? With this leisurely day hike, you can explore the Tajik mountains at a stone's throw of the busy capital. Starting from the village of Varzob, the trail runs along a river for a few kilometers and ends at a picturesque waterfall. An easygoing hike that is ideal if you have a day to spare in Dushanbe.