Tajikistan

History

It was under the Mongol Empire during the 13^th century. The country was divided when the north was taken over by Russia and the south by Emirate of Bukhara between 1860 and 1900.

The country became fully independent from the Soviet Union on 9^th September 1991.

Food/ culture

Tajik culture is alike with that of Afghanistan and Iran that have an Islam culture expressed through language, beliefs, art, food, music, festivals and habits.

The main crops grown at the region include cotton and wheat. The common foods are Kabuli pulao and qurutob.

Wildlife

The main wildlife animals includes Marco polo, snow leopards, wolves, bears, yacks and golden eagle.

Annual events/ celebrations/ festivals

New Year’s Day is celebrated on 1^st January throughout the nation.

Citizens celebrate the Navruz Festival, which is an Iranian New Year.

Independence Day is celebrated on 9^th September.

Things to see

Punjshanbe Bozor is a very colourful market in Khujand that sells all the products that a visitor would want.

The Historical Museum of Sughd is in Khujand that displays the history and cultural heritage of the country.

The National Museum of Tajikistan also preserves the history and archaeological remains.

Arbob Cultural Palace is the former headquarters of the historical Soviet in Khujand.

Interesting facts

The Pamir Mountains or Plateau is the highest region in central Asia and also one of the highest mountains in the world.

Pamir Highway is the world’s second-highest international highway.

The official language is Tajiki.

The most practised religion is Sunni Islam.

Borders

Tajikistan is bordered to the south by Afghanistan, to the west by Uzbekistan, to the north by Kyrgyzstan and the east by China.