Tajikistan Travel Photography: Dushanbe, Hisor, and the Mountains
Tajikistan was a complete surprise. And I barely scratched the surface.
With roughly 90% of the country covered by mountains, Tajikistan is a destination that seems made for adventure. Even its capital, Dushanbe, caught me off guard. I wasn’t expecting the broad, tree-lined boulevards, impressive buildings, and elaborate nighttime lighting that makes much of the city glow after dark.
But the real beauty of Tajikistan lies beyond the capital, in its spectacular mountains. I managed a few excursions to Iskanderkul Lake and the Seven Lakes, which provided just a small taste of the country’s dramatic landscapes. Clearly, I need to return. The Pamir Highway is already calling my name.
Traveling in Tajikistan is an adventure in itself. Be prepared for some creative driving, tourist infrastructure that’s still developing (or completely nonexistent), and restaurant menus that rarely bother with English. Hitchhiking is surprisingly common, even among women and children, and knowing a little Russian goes a long way.
Tajikistan isn’t always the easiest country to explore, but that’s part of its appeal. The scenery is extraordinary, the photographic opportunities are endless, and I left feeling like I’d barely begun.
Explore my travel photographs, experiences, and occasional observations from Tajikistan:
