Best things to do in Dushanbe
Find out more about those top places in Dushanbe
Located on the Varzob River, is the city of Dushanbe – the capital and most important city of Tajikistan. The city has all the markings of a typical central Asia city with its wonderful landscapes, intriguing culture and ever welcoming locals. Dushanbe might not be the most exciting places in the world but it will certainly give you its unique feels.
From visiting the Statue of Ismoil Somoni to National Museum of Antiques of Tajikistan, you are definitely going to have a swell time in the city.
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Statue of Ismoil Somoni
The statue of Ismoli Somoni is perhaps the city’s most important monuments, situated in the Ozodi square - it was built in 1999 to celebrate the 10th century anniversary of Samanid dynasty. The statue is significantly related to Isma’il ibn Ahmed the founder of the Dynasty who laid the blueprint of most things the Samanids hold sacredly till today – the statue stands at 25 m and it is flanked by two cross-legged lions.
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National Museum of Tajikistan
The recommended starting point for first time visitors of Tajikistan, the museum is established in 1934 and it's the best place to learn about the history and culture of the people of Tajikistan. Covering an area of 24,000 meters the museum is made up of four major exhibitions which spread across natural history, fine and applied arts, ancient and modern history. The highlights of the museum are a 10th century wooden mehrab and murals from ancient Penjikent. There are also artifacts of musical instruments, sculptures and suits of armor.
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Gusgarf Waterfall
Located in the Varzob Valley, the Gusgarf Waterfall is a must visit for a complete Dushanbe experience. At a height of 30 m it's a sight to behold – however getting to its location is quite a journey requiring about hike of about 8 km. Around the waterfalls are several recreational and picnic areas.
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National Museum of Antiques of Tajikistan
Opened in 2001, the museum focus on the nations prehistoric era. Its exhibitions are very diverse - from wall paintings to archaeological findings from the temple of the Hellistic age of Ox. However, it most prized attraction is the statue of sleeping Buddha (Buddha in Nirvana) originally removed from Ajina-Teppe during archaeological investigations in 1966, at a height of 13 m it is the largest Buddha statue in central Asia.
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Hissar Fort
Located 30 km away from Dushanbe is the Hissar Fort, the former residence of the Bek – deputy of the Bukhara emir. Majorly in ruins after the Russians attacks of 1924, the only surviving part of the Hissar Fort is the monumental gate made from burned bricks with an arrow shaped arch very similar to Bukhara gates. Although a shadow of its former self, the Hissar Fort offers a serene location to get away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.
