Istaravshan - Discovering Tajikistan

Travelling to Istaravshan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Istaravshan, a pretty good destination in Tajikistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Istaravshan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Istaravshan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Tajikistan, here's everything to know about Istaravshan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Istaravshan

Istaravshan is an ancient city located in the northern part of Tajikistan. It is considered as one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a rich history that dates back over 2500 years. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning landscapes, and historical monuments such as the Mug Teppe fortress and the Hazrat-i Shoh Mausoleum. Some of the popular activities to do in Istaravshan are exploring the local bazaars, visiting the ancient ruins, and experiencing the local culture and traditions. The closest airport to Istaravshan is Khujand airport, which is around 60 km away.

What to visit in Istaravshan

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Istaravshan, along with a brief description for each of them: 1. Hazrat-i-Shah Mosque: This mosque is historical and is believed to have been built during the 19th century. It is located in the city center and its grandeur attracts visitors from all over the world.
2. Kuk Gumbaz Madrasa: This madrasa was built in the late 16th century and is located just outside the city's bazaar. It has a distinctive blue dome and is a perfect example of the monumental architecture of the Timurid dynasty.
3. Khazrati Shoh Mausoleum: This is the burial place of one of the most respected saints of the Muslim world. It is an old and beautiful building located just off the city center.
4. Abdulatif Sultan Medrese: This madrasa was built in the 15th century and is now a cultural center with a museum where visitors can learn more about the history of the region.
5. Gurminj Museum of Musical Instruments: This is a unique museum that showcases the traditional instruments of the Central Asian region, along with live performances and workshops.
6. Mug Tepa: This is an impressive ancient settlement just over 40 km from the city, with ruins that date back to the 4th century BC. Visitors can explore the area and learn about the history of the region.
7. Pamir Sport Horse Trek: This is a unique experience for horse lovers. Visitors can take a guided horse trek through the Pamir mountains and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Sari Mazor: These are ancient Buddhist caves located about an hour's drive from the city. They date from the 4th and 5th centuries and are an important part of the region's history and culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Tajikistan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Istaravshan.

When to go on holiday to Istaravshan

The best time to visit Istaravshan (Tajikistan) is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny with relatively low levels of rainfall. However, if you are interested in outdoor activities like trekking and hiking, the best time to go would be during the months of September and October when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. It's worth noting that the winter months (November to February) can be very cold, with snow blocking mountain passes, and transport options may be more limited.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Istaravshan

To get to Istaravshan, Tajikistan, you can take a flight to Dushanbe International Airport, which is the main airport in the country. Then, from Dushanbe, you can take a shared taxi or a bus to Istaravshan which is around 200 km away. The journey usually takes around 4-5 hours but can take longer depending on road conditions. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or a driver to travel to Istaravshan. It's important to note that road conditions in Tajikistan can be challenging, so it's important to plan your trip carefully and make sure you have all necessary documents and permits for travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Istaravshan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Istaravshan

Here are some typical foods of Istaravshan in Tajikistan: 1. Plov - Tajikistan's national dish and a staple food of Istaravshan. It's a delicious combination of rice, carrots, meat, onions, and a range of spices.
2. Shashlik - This is a meat dish, usually lamb or beef, that is grilled and served with flatbread, onions, and tomatoes.
3. Lagman - A hearty and warming noodle soup that's made with vegetables, meat, and spices. It's a perfect dish to warm up on chilly days.
4. Qurotob - A traditional Tajik soup with bread, vegetable and meat broth, onions, and yogurt. It's a perfect way to soak bread and taste the flavor of Tajik culture.
5. Mantu - A popular national dish which is also famous in Istaravshan. It consists of steamed dumplings filled with spiced minced meat.
6. Sambusa - A savory pastry filled with minced beef or mutton, onions, and spices. It's a perfect quick snack or a side dish during meals.
7. Gullcho - A sweet pastry made from flour, eggs, milk, and various flavorings such as cardamom, cinnamon, or cloves. It's a great choice for dessert after a delicious meal. 8. Shurbo - A traditional soup that is served with meat, vegetables and grains. It has a savory and slightly sour taste owing to the use of vinegar or lemon juice.
9. Chuchvara - Tiny boiled dumplings filled with minced beef or mutton served in a hearty soup.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Tajikistan here.

Is Istaravshan an expensive destination for tourists?

Istaravshan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tajikistan, known for its historical and cultural significance. However, compared to other touristic destinations in Tajikistan, Istaravshan can be relatively expensive.
The cost of food, accommodation, and activities in Istaravshan can vary depending on your preferences and the time of the year you're traveling. In general, accommodation options in Istaravshan are limited to guesthouses and homestays, which can cost between $10 and $50 per night per person. However, if you prefer to stay in a hotel, you may have to pay more.
Food in Istaravshan is relatively affordable, with local restaurants serving traditional dishes for around $3-7 per meal. However, western-style food can be more expensive.
As for activities, visiting historical sites and museums in Istaravshan can be expensive, with some entrance fees ranging from $5 to $15. Transportation costs within Istaravshan can also be relatively expensive, especially if you hire a private car or taxi.
Overall, while Istaravshan may be a bit more expensive than other destinations in Tajikistan, it is definitely worth a visit for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

Where to find accomodation in Istaravshan

The best areas to find accommodation in Istaravshan would be in the city center, within walking distance to the main historical sites such as the Istaravshan Fortress and the Hazrat-i-Shah Mosque. Some popular places to stay in the city center include hotels such as Jahongir Hotel, Snowdrop Hotel and Istadream Guesthouse. Additionally, there are a few guesthouses and homestays available in more rural areas outside the city center, which may offer a more authentic experience for travelers.
You can check hotel prices at Istaravshan here:
Booking.com

Is Istaravshan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Istaravshan is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to not display large amounts of cash or valuable items, avoid walking alone at night, and take reliable transportation when traveling within the city or to nearby areas. It is also a good idea to research any cultural customs and expectations in advance, so as to not accidentally offend locals. Overall, with some basic precautions, Istaravshan can be a wonderful and safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Tajikistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Istaravshan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Istaravshan the most?

Istaravshan, Tajikistan is a great place for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and architecture. This city offers a lot of historical monuments, mosques, minarets, and other ancient buildings. Therefore, it is recommended for couples, families, and groups of friends who like sightseeing and exploring new cultures. Young people may enjoy the experience too, but it is not a place for partying or nightlife. Istaravshan is more of a family-friendly destination with a lot of cultural and historical significance.

How to get around Istaravshan

In Istaravshan, the most common forms of transportation are shared taxis and local buses. Shared taxis are usually small cars that can accommodate up to 4-5 passengers and they usually follow fixed routes. Local buses cover larger distances and have fewer stops than shared taxis, but they can be more crowded and uncomfortable. Walking or cycling is also an option for short distances, and in some cases, hiring a private car or a driver may be more convenient, especially for longer trips or remote areas.

What to see around Istaravshan

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Istaravshan: 1. Khujand: It is a city located about 70 kilometers northeast of Istaravshan, and it was once a major center of the Sogdian civilization. There are many historic sites to visit, including the Muslihiddin Memorial Mosque, the Panjshanbe Bazaar, and the Khujand Fortress.
2. Iskanderkul: It is a beautiful lake located about 120 kilometers southeast of Istaravshan, in the Fann Mountains. The area features stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
3. Seven Lakes: It is a group of turquoise-colored mountain lakes located about 150 kilometers south of Istaravshan, in the same Fann Mountains area. The lakes are connected by a series of waterfalls, and there are several hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Dushanbe: It is the capital city of Tajikistan, located about 180 kilometers southeast of Istaravshan. It is a modern city with many interesting sights, including the National Museum of Tajikistan, the Rudaki Park, and the Dushanbe Flagpole.
5. Penjikent: It is a city located about 100 kilometers west of Istaravshan, near the border with Uzbekistan. It was an important center of the Sogdian civilization, and there are several archaeological sites to visit, including the Penjikent Museum of Local Lore.
For every travel information about Tajikistan you can click here.

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