Khujand is known as one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, dating back about 2,500 years. It is renowned for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and strategic location along the ancient Silk Road. As Tajikistan's second-largest city, Khujand boasts colorful markets, notable historical sites like the Khujand Fortress, and the beautiful Syr Darya riverbanks.
Travelers can get to Khujand primarily by air, road, or rail. The city has an airport, Khujand International Airport, with regular flights from several major cities in Central Asia and Russia. Overland, Khujand is well-connected by road with neighboring countries like Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Additionally, there's a railway station linking Khujand with other parts of Tajikistan and beyond.
Top attractions in Khujand include the Khujand Fortress, the Historical Museum of Sughd housed within the fortress, Sheikh Muslihiddin Mosque, the Panjshanbe Market - one of the oldest markets in Tajikistan, and Arbob Cultural Palace. The Syr Darya river embankments are also popular for leisurely walks and scenic views.
The best time to visit Khujand is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be quite hot, while winters are cold with occasional snow.
Yes, Khujand offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some larger hotels offer more amenities and there is increasing availability of international-standard accommodation.
In Khujand, you should try local dishes such as plov (pilaf), manti (dumplings), shashlik (skewered and grilled meat), laghman (noodle soup), and samsa (pastry with meat or vegetable filling). Do not miss out on the fresh produce and dairy products found in the local bazaars.
Khujand is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with travel anywhere, it's important to remain vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take standard precautions to safeguard your belongings. It is also advisable to follow the local laws and customs closely.
Credit card acceptance is not widespread in Khujand, especially outside of high-end hotels and restaurants. Cash is the preferred method of payment, and ATMs that accept international cards are available albeit limited. It's recommended to carry sufficient local currency (Tajikistani somoni) with you.
The primary language spoken in Khujand is Tajik, which is closely related to Persian (Farsi). Russian is also widely understood and spoken, particularly by the older population and those involved in tourism and business sectors. English may be spoken in some hotels and by tour guides.
When visiting Khujand, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when entering mosques or religious sites. It's customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship. When greeting someone, a handshake is common, but always wait to see if the other person extends their hand first. Also, be cautious when discussing political topics or taking photographs near government buildings or military installations.
