Quick answer

Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital, is a compact, safe city with Soviet-era monuments, parks, markets and growing cafes. Know visa rules, plan around seasons, respect local customs, carry somoni/cash, and use taxis or rented cars for getting around.

Visa & entry requirements

• Check your nationality: many nationalities need a visa. Tajikistan offers e-visa for citizens of many countries at https://evisa.tj/ — apply at least a week before travel. Some nationalities may need a consular visa.
• Passport: valid for at least 6 months beyond date of entry and with blank pages.
• Registration: hotels handle registration; if staying private, you must register with the local migration office within the required timeframe (often done by hosts).
• Border areas: special permits are required for GBAO (mountainous eastern regions like Pamir) and some border zones—arrange in advance if you plan to travel beyond Dushanbe.

Best time to visit

• Spring (April–June): pleasant temperatures, green parks and blooms — one of the best times.
• Autumn (September–October): mild weather, clear skies and harvest season.
• Summer (July–August): hot (often 30°C+), but afternoons can be warm and dry.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): cold with occasional snow; still manageable in the city but mountain routes may be affected.

Safety tips

• Dushanbe is generally safe for tourists; petty theft exists—use usual precautions with belongings.
• Avoid discussing sensitive politics or border disputes publicly.
• Keep copies of travel documents and emergency contacts.
• Use licensed taxis or app-based rides where available; negotiate fares if meter absent.
• Tap or bottled water: tap water is treated but many visitors prefer bottled water.

Local customs & etiquette

• Tajik culture is conservative and influenced by Islam: dress modestly in public (cover shoulders and knees); women may not need headscarves in the city but carry a scarf for mosques.
• Greetings: a polite handshake is common (men shake hands; between genders more reserved). Use surnames/title unless invited to use first names.
• Hospitality: hosts may insist on multiple servings—accept small amounts to be polite.
• Photography: ask permission before photographing people, especially women, military/police, and certain government buildings.

Currency & money

• Currency: Tajikistani somoni (TJS). Notes are the norm; small change can be scarce.
• ATMs: available in Dushanbe but may run out of cash; bring some cash on arrival. International cards accepted at some hotels and larger businesses, but smaller shops and markets are cash-only.
• Exchange: exchange at banks or official bureaus; bring USD or EUR for best rates.

Transportation around the city

• Taxis: inexpensive. Use yellow taxis, negotiate price before starting or ask driver to use a meter. Ride-hailing apps (e.g., Yandex Taxi) may operate—check availability.
• Public transport: buses and shared minibuses (marshrutkas) run on routes but can be confusing for newcomers; carry small change.
• Walking: central Dushanbe is walkable with parks and attractions close together.
• Car hire: available, but roads outside the city vary; hiring a driver is common for day trips.

Must-know tips & practical advice

• Language: Tajik (a Persian language) is official; Russian is widely used. Learn a few basic phrases or have translation app handy.
• SIM/data: buy a local SIM (Beeline, Tcell) at the airport or city shops for better data and calls.
• Power & plugs: 220V, Type C and F plugs common—bring an adapter if needed.
• Health: bring any prescription meds and a basic first-aid kit; pharmacies are available. Travel insurance recommended.
• Sightseeing highlights: Rudaki Park and statue, National Museum, Hissar Fortress (nearby), Green Bazaar (market), Presidential Palace (view from outside), parks and cafés along the river.
• Food: try plov (rice dish), shashlik, mantu (dumplings) and local breads. Street food is good but choose busy stalls for freshness.
• Cultural sites: dress modestly and be respectful inside mosques and mausoleums.

Final practical checklist

• Confirm visa/e-visa and passport validity
• Pack for the season; bring modest clothing and a scarf
• Have some TJS cash and a backup USD/EUR
• Arrange SIM or offline maps and translation tools
• Use official taxis or apps, and have hotel address written in Tajik/Russian

Enjoy Dushanbe’s relaxed parks, markets and hospitality—plan permits if you venture to the Pamirs and respect local customs for a smooth trip.