Welcome to Tajikistan 😊

Quick Facts About Tajikistan

Money and Finances

The currency in Tajikistan is the Tajikistani Somoni (TJS). The coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Diram, while the banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Somoni.

ATM Network

There are limited ATMs in Tajikistan, especially outside urban areas. It is advisable to carry enough cash when travelling to remote regions.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Tajikistan, and it is mostly limited to upscale hotels and restaurants in larger cities. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted than AMEX.

Internet and Phones

In Tajikistan, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is relatively low, with an average speed of 5-6 Mbps. Additionally, the government occasionally censors online content and restricts access to certain websites.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Tajikistan has several telco companies, including Babilon-Mobile, Tcell, Beeline, and Megafon. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively affordable, around 5-10 USD per month. However, there may be sim compatibility issues with some phones, so it's important to check before purchasing.

Dialling to Tajikistan

To call Tajikistan from another country, dial +992 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes in Tajikistan range from 311 to 347 and are typically 6 digits long.

Transport Around Tajikistan

Air Travel

Tajikistan has one major international airport, the Dushanbe International Airport, located in the capital city of Dushanbe.

Train Travel

Tajikistan has a limited inter-city train network, with most routes operated by the state-run Tajikistan Railway. A journey from Dushanbe to Khujand takes around 12 hours and costs approximately $10.

Metro / Local Trains

Tajikistan does not have a metro system.

Buses

Buses are the main form of public transport in Tajikistan, with both state-run and private companies operating services. A bus journey from Dushanbe to Khujand takes around 8 hours and costs approximately $5.

Rideshare

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are not available in Tajikistan. However, there are some local rideshare providers like Tulpar and Vezu.

Driving by Car

Driving in Tajikistan can be challenging due to poorly maintained roads and mountainous terrain. The speed limit on highways is 90 km/h and in residential areas is 60 km/h. Tajikistan follows right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Tajikistan, tipping is not common but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Locals greet each other by shaking hands and using formal titles. It is considered impolite for men to initiate a handshake with a woman. When speaking with strangers, it is important to remain respectful and avoid sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Men and women address each other by using formal titles or last names unless explicitly told otherwise.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Tajikistan's healthcare system is underfunded and lacking in many resources, with a shortage of medical professionals and inadequate facilities. Private healthcare is also limited and expensive. The cost for seeing a doctor can range from approximately $5 to $50 USD.

COVID Situation

Tajikistan initially denied any COVID-19 cases, but has since acknowledged its presence. As of September 2021, there have been over 16,000 confirmed cases and over 120 deaths. The vaccination rate is low and there have been reports of shortages of medical supplies and resources.

Common Health Risks

Tajikistan is at risk for various infectious diseases, including malaria, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A and B. The risk of contracting malaria is high in certain areas, particularly during the rainy season. Travelers should take precautions such as using mosquito nets and taking anti-malaria medication. Food and water precautions should also be taken to prevent food poisoning and other illnesses.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Tajikistan, alcohol is legal but heavily taxed. The legal drinking age is 18 years. However, public consumption of alcohol is prohibited and drinking in public can result in a fine or imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

Drug abuse and trafficking in Tajikistan are illegal and can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences. Recreational drug use, including for soft drugs such as cannabis, is strictly prohibited.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Premarital relationships are generally frowned upon in Tajikistan, especially in rural areas. However, it is not illegal to engage in pre-marital relationships.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Tajikistan and could lead to imprisonment for up to three years. Discrimination and violence against LGBTQ individuals are not uncommon in the country.

Firearms / Guns

The use of guns and firearms in Tajikistan is heavily regulated. Only licensed hunters and law enforcement officials are legally allowed to possess firearms. Unauthorized possession of firearms can result in severe penalties including long prison sentences.