Ten fun facts about Tajikistan

1. A Country of Persians

Tajikistan is home to a population of predominantly Persian-speaking Tajiks, who share a common language, culture, and history with both Afghanistan and Iran. This ethnic group makes up the majority of the country's population, and their presence has been a defining factor in Tajikistan's culture and identity.

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2. A mountainous republic with stunning scenery

Tajikistan is a mountainous republic, with more than 90% of its land covered by mountains. The country is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including the Ismoil Somoni Peak, which stands at 7,495 meters above sea level. The Pamir Mountains, located in the eastern part of the country, are the highest mountain range in the world outside of the Himalayas. The country's rugged terrain is also home to numerous glaciers, rivers, and lakes, making it a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers.

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3. A Country of linguistic diversity

Tajikistan is a fascinating country with a rich linguistic heritage. With over seven million people, it is home to more than 80 languages, including Tajik, Russian, Uzbek, Kyrgyz, and Pashto. This linguistic complexity is further enhanced by the presence of dialects, which vary from region to region. As a result, Tajikistan is a vibrant and diverse nation, with a unique culture and language that is constantly evolving.

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4. A Secular State with a Strong Religious Heritage

Tajikistan is a secular state, with the Constitution guaranteeing freedom of religion. Despite this, the official state religion is Sunni Islam, specifically, that of the Hanafi school. This school of thought is one of the four major Sunni legal schools, and is the most widely practiced in Central Asia. The government of Tajikistan has taken steps to ensure that all citizens are able to practice their faith without fear of persecution.

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5. A Country of Spectacular Geographical Diversity

Tajikistan is a country of stunning geographical diversity, with its lowest point being the Syr Darya River valley, located at an elevation of 300 meters (984 feet). This valley is a major river in Central Asia, and is the main waterway for the country, providing a vital source of irrigation and transportation. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

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6. Tajikistan's highest peak is the tallest in the former Soviet Union

Tajikistan is home to the highest point in the country, Ismoil Somoni Peak, which stands at an impressive 7,495 meters (24,590 feet). This peak is named after Ismoil Somoni, the father of the Tajik nation, and is located in the Pamir Mountains, a mountain range that stretches across Central Asia. It is the highest peak in the former Soviet Union and the highest peak in the entire Pamir range. It is also the second highest peak in all of Asia, after Mount Everest.

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7. A Country with a Continental Climate and Dry Weather

Tajikistan is a country located in Central Asia, and it has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures in the summer can reach up to 35°C (95°F) and in the winter they can drop to -20°C (-4°F). The country experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with the average temperature in the capital city of Dushanbe being around 10°C (50°F). The country also experiences a dry climate, with most of the precipitation occurring in the winter months.

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8. A Country Where Agriculture Plays a Major Role

Tajikistan is a country where agriculture plays a major role in the economy, with around half of the labor force employed in the sector. This is largely due to the country's mountainous terrain, which makes it difficult to develop other industries. Agriculture is the main source of income for many families, with the majority of the population relying on subsistence farming. The main crops grown in Tajikistan are wheat, cotton, and fruits, while livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle are also raised.

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9. A Central Asian Country with a Unique Currency

Tajikistan is a Central Asian country located between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and its official currency is the somoni. The somoni was introduced in 2000, replacing the Tajikistani ruble, and is divided into 100 diram. The somoni is issued by the National Bank of Tajikistan and is available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. The somoni is the only legal tender in Tajikistan and is widely accepted in the country.

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10. A Paradise for Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts

Tajikistan is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts, boasting some of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world. From mountain biking and skiing to snowboarding and mountain climbing, the country's rugged terrain provides a wealth of opportunities for adventure seekers. With its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and challenging trails, Tajikistan is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

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