It is difficult to get around in Tajikistan because of the rugged terrain and post war damage. Nevertheless, there are practicable ways to get around in Tajikistan.
Tajikistan transportation facilities are limited but they are well suited for the rough terrain and they offer the best means of moving about in Tajikistan.
Private hire
It is the best method to travel in Tajikistan if you are a tourist or on an official visit. It is essential to hire a car and a local driver. The roads of Tajikistan are mostly unpaved, narrow hence it would be important on your part to hire a driver who is experienced and familiar with the terrain of the land.
Inter-city taxis
This is one of the best means of
Tajikistan transportation. The
taxis in Tajikistan do not have meters hence it is advisable that you negotiate the price before you step into one or else it might be a very expensive ride. It is also very important that you avail taxis that have a valid license. The inter-city taxis are found near hotels, bazaars, train stations and bus terminus.
Bus
There are also
bus services in Tajikistan connecting one city to another. However, the bus services are infrequent. The bus rides are economic but they are very slow.
Trains
Because of the mountainous terrain, the
rail networks of Tajikistan is underdeveloped. There is no direct train route connecting the northern and southern part of Tajikistan. There is only a single circuitous route through Termez in Uzbekistan.
Private car
However, the best way to travel in Tajikistan would be to use own vehicle. However, you will not be spared from the tax payable at the Tajikistan border. Alternatively, you can buy a vehicle on arriving at Tajikistan. The cars are sold at Giprozem located in the southern part of the city of Dushanbe and at Chkalovsk located in the eastern part of Khujand. After purchase of the vehicle make sure that you get it registered. The chief cities have diesel and petrol pumps.
The roads are narrow, rough, unpaved and winding. The poor infrastructure of Tajikistan makes it very difficult to travel inside the country but this little discomfort is worth the opportunity to get a close look at the picturesque mountains and valleys of Tajikistan.
