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About Dushanbe
Dushanbe, the capital and largest city of Tajikistan, is home to approximately 1 million residents as of 2023. Nestled in the western part of the country, it is surrounded by the majestic Hissar Mountains and traversed by the Varzob River. Dushanbe is celebrated for its Soviet-era architecture, vibrant bazaars, and rich cultural heritage.
The city experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers can see temperatures soaring above 30°C, while winters are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The majority of precipitation occurs between November and March. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities and the cultivation of lush parks and gardens throughout the city. The optimal time to visit Dushanbe is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months, when the weather is most pleasant.
Dushanbe International Airport, situated approximately 5 kilometers from the city center, serves as the main gateway to the city. Several airlines, including Somon Air, Turkish Airlines, and Flydubai, operate regular flights connecting Dushanbe with major Saudi Arabian cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, often with layovers in Istanbul or Dubai.
The culinary scene in Dushanbe offers a rich tapestry of Central Asian flavors, with traditional Tajik dishes like plov (a rice and meat dish), qurutob (a bread and yogurt-based meal), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers) taking center stage. The city's teahouses, known as chaikhanas, are popular spots for locals and visitors alike to enjoy meals and socialize. A common refreshment is green tea, often enjoyed throughout the day.
Tourists will find numerous attractions that highlight Dushanbe's historical and cultural significance. The National Museum of Tajikistan showcases artifacts from the region's rich past, while the Rudaki Park offers a serene environment adorned with fountains and statues. The city's various parks, such as Victory Park, are popular for picnics and social gatherings, providing insight into the daily life of Dushanbe's residents.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Varzob Gorge, which offers hiking opportunities and natural beauty. The city's botanical gardens also provide a tranquil retreat with diverse plant species.
Saudi Arabian citizens can enter Tajikistan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. This visa-free regime facilitates easier travel for tourism, business, or family visits.
Transportation to Dushanbe City Center from Airport
Dushanbe Intl. Airport
Known as the capital of Tajikistan located in Central Asia, Dushanbe is a special city with its rich cultural heritage, authentic architecture and cosmopolitanism. Dushanbe Airport hosts passengers who want to travel to this city. Dushanbe is situated at the confluence of the two rivers Varzob and Kofarnihon. The central region of the city consists of Rudaki Avenue and the nearby Rudaki Park.
The city is divided into four basic regions as Aviccena, Ferdowsi, Ismail Samani and Shah Mansur. Public transportation alternatives in the city are generally budget-friendly. The most common public transportation vehicles in the city are minibuses and shared taxis. Buses and trolleybuses are also among the preferred public transportation vehicles. The central railway station, which is close to the city center, offers transportation service to some parts of the city.
This station is home to international and intercity services. There are many alternatives that you can use to reach the city center from the airport. One of these alternatives is public transportation. Trolleybuses, trains, minibuses and shared taxis can be used for the transportation to the central regions of the city from the airport. If you want to have a more comfortable travel to the city center, you can get on a taxi or rent a car.
Bus
The bus routes 2, 8 and 12 departing from the airport carry passengers to the city center in about 20 minutes. Buses have a wide transportation network throughout the city. There are sixteen bus routes operating in the city. Bus routes 3A and 23 pass through the railway station.
Trolleybus
By getting on trolleybus routes 2 and 4 departing from the airport, you can arrive at A. Donish, S. Ayni, A. Rudaki, Somoni and N. Mahsumov stations. From here, you can arrive at your destination by getting on a public transportation vehicle or other trolleybus route. Trolleybuses have a key importance in urban transportation.
Travelling with trolleybuses is more affordable than buses. There are eight trolleybus routes, including 1, 24, 5, 8, 10, 12 and 14, which operate throughout Dushanbe.
Trolleybus route 1 takes passengers to S. Ayni Culture Park and Railway Station, route 9 and 10 to Obshoron region, route 11 to S. Ayni Culture Park and Somoni regions and route 12 to shopping center and Gulbutta regions.
Train
It is possible to get to the city center through train lines 3 and 4 departing from the railway station located near the airport.
Minibus (Marshrutka)
Known as Marshrutka in the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States, minibuses are a very useful public transportation alternatives in Dushanbe. Although the minibuses have a wide transportation network, they are more crowded compared to other public transportation such as buses, trolleys and buses; also, minibuses demand higher amounts than trolleybuses.
By using minibus route 33 you can get to A. Donish, Nazarshoev, Rudaki, S. Ayni, S. Sherozi and N. Carabo regions. From these regions, you can get on a different transportation vehicle depending on your destination.
Routes 1, 3, 17 and 29 are among the minibus routes providing transportation opportunity in the city. By using route 3 you can travel to the railway station.
Shared Taxi
There are shared taxis operating between certain regions in the city. Travelling with these vehicles are comfortable and budget-friendly. If you are planning to go to Karabolo or 82nd district of the city, you can travel to the Rudaki, Somoni and US Embassy regions by using shared taxi route 8 that departs from the airport.
Taxi
Using a taxi in Dushanbe is a useful alternative contrary to many other cities. Taxis, contrary to what is believed, can be more suitable for your budget. If you are travelling as a crowded group, it can be more affordable to use a taxi instead of public transportation vehicle.
Car Rental
Another comfortable and quick option for travelling in the city is car rental. You can rent your car from Rent a Car office located at the airport or you can make a reservation online before your flight. By 2015, the offices where you can rent a bicycle in the city have also started to provide service for visitors.