+ 4 h / + 3 h during our summer time

Dushanbe (Dusanbe)

Official language

Tajik

Language capabilities

Russian and English

220 volts / 50 hertz. An adapter is required for Swiss three-pin plugs. Two-pin Europlugs can generally be used without an adapter

Banks

9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Mon.–Fri.)
Opening hours may vary. Some banks close for lunch, usually between noon and 1 p.m.

Shops

8/9 a.m.–8/10 p.m. (daily)
Opening hours may vary depending on the location, season and type of shop.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day

• 8 March: Mother’s Day

• 21–24 March: Nowruz / Persian New Year

• 9 May: Victory Day

• 27 June: National Unity Day

• 9 September: Independence Day

• 6 November: Constitution Day

• Variable date according to the lunar calendar: Eid al-Fitr / festival marking the end of the fast

• Variable date according to the lunar calendar: Eid al-Adha / Festival of Sacrifice

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens residing in Switzerland. To enter Tajikistan, you will need:

• A valid Swiss passport. At least six months’ remaining validity on entry is recommended.

• No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days. For longer stays, you will need an appropriate visa. Information is available from the Tajik diplomatic representation or the official e-visa portal.

Registration: If you enter without a visa, you must generally register with the relevant registration office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (OVIR) within ten working days of arrival. Enquire about the procedure well in advance. E-visa holders are exempt from this registration requirement during their authorised stay.

Special permits: A special permit is required to travel to the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO). Additional permits are required for certain other areas and destinations, including Lake Sarez. Before travelling, ask the Tajik diplomatic representation which permits are required.

Minors: Ask the Tajik diplomatic representation about entry formalities for minors, particularly if they are travelling alone or with only one parent.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

Tajikistan has a strongly continental climate, with large temperature differences between summer and winter and between different elevations.

Valleys and lower elevations, for example Dushanbe and the Fergana Valley:

• Summer (June–August): Hot and mostly dry. Daytime temperatures frequently exceed 30 °C and may rise above 40 °C during heatwaves.

• Winter (December–February): Cool to cold. Frost and occasional snow are possible.

• Spring and autumn (March–May and September–November): Often pleasant, with marked differences between day and night. Rainfall is to be expected, particularly in spring.

Mid-elevation areas, for example in the Hissar and Fann Mountains:

• Summer (June–August): Generally warm during the day and significantly cooler at night.

• Winter (December–February): Cold and snowy. Mountain passes and access roads may be temporarily impassable.

• Spring and autumn (March–May and September–November): Changeable, with rapid shifts in the weather. At higher elevations, snow may linger for a long time or return early.

High mountains, particularly the Pamirs:

• Summer (June–August): Short and cool to mild, depending on elevation. Night frost and snowfall are possible even in summer.

• Winter (December–February): Very long and severe, with temperatures falling well below −10 °C.

• Spring and autumn (March–May and September–November): Mostly cold. The eastern Pamirs are particularly dry; other mountain regions receive significantly more precipitation.

The ideal time to visit Tajikistan:

• Swimming holidays: Jun.–Aug. Swimming opportunities are mainly found in lower-lying bodies of water such as the Kayrakkum Reservoir near Khujand. High-altitude lakes such as Karakul remain very cold even in summer.

• City breaks: Apr.–May, Sep.–Oct. These months are particularly suitable for sightseeing in Dushanbe and Khujand, before or after the peak summer heat.

• Hiking and trekking: Jun.–Sep., particularly Jul.–Aug. for high-altitude routes. The best time depends on the elevation, snow conditions and itinerary.

• Winter holidays: Dec.–Mar. The Safed-Dara ski resort near Dushanbe offers developed winter sports facilities. The season depends on snow conditions.

• Mobile phone use: Using a Swiss SIM card can incur high roaming charges. Check your provider’s terms before travelling. Mobile coverage is available in cities; however, there are significant coverage gaps in remote valleys and high mountain regions.

• Wi-Fi: Many hotels and tourist accommodation establishments in larger cities offer Wi-Fi. Speeds and availability may vary. Do not rely on a stable internet connection in rural and remote areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: Local SIM cards are available from mobile operators such as Tcell, MegaFon and ZET-MOBILE. Buy them from an official outlet. You will need your passport to register; additional documents may be required. Ask about special offers for travellers and how long they remain valid.

• Lake Iskanderkul, Fann Mountains: Turquoise mountain lake at an elevation of around 2’200 m, surrounded by impressive peaks. The surrounding area offers hiking trails and a nearby waterfall.

• Pamir Highway (M41), eastern Tajikistan: High mountain road crossing vast plateaus, deep valleys and remote settlements.

• Hissar Fortress, near Dushanbe: Historic fortress complex with a distinctive gateway and partly reconstructed buildings. Former madrasas and other historic buildings can be found nearby.

• Pamir Mountains, Gorno-Badakhshan: High mountain landscapes with glacier-covered peaks, barren plateaus and traditional villages.

• Ancient Panjakent, Sughd Region: Archaeological site of an early medieval Sogdian city. The remains of houses, temples and city fortifications offer an insight into life along the Silk Road.

• Sarazm, near Panjakent: UNESCO World Heritage Site with the remains of an early settlement, offering insights into the development of agriculture, crafts and trade in Central Asia.

• National Museum of Antiquities, Dushanbe: Archaeological collection featuring finds from different periods. One of its best-known exhibits is the approximately 13 m long reclining Buddha from Ajina-Teppa.

• Seven Lakes (Haft Kul), Fann Mountains: Chain of differently coloured mountain lakes in the Shing Valley. The lakes and surrounding villages can be explored on excursions and hikes.

• Khorog, Gorno-Badakhshan: Mountain town on the Gunt River, near its confluence with the Panj. Attractions include the high-altitude botanical garden and the regional museum.

• Norak Reservoir, Norak: Large reservoir on the Vakhsh River, surrounded by impressive mountain scenery. Viewpoints offer views of the water and the immense dam.

• Plov / Oshi Palav: Rice dish with carrots, onions, meat and spices. It is served both as an everyday meal and at festivals and family celebrations. Its associated cooking and communal traditions are part of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage.

• Lagman: Noodle dish with meat and vegetables, often served as a hearty soup.

• Samsa: Oven-baked pastries filled with meat, onions or vegetables.

• Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, for example lamb or beef, often served with onions and bread.

• Non: Traditional flatbread baked in a tandoor oven and served with many meals.

• Kurut: Small, dried and salted fermented milk balls, eaten as a snack or used in cooking.

• Chakka: Thick, strained fermented milk product served as an accompaniment or dip.

• Tea: Green and black tea are part of everyday life and play an important role in welcoming guests.

• Fruit and nuts: Melons, grapes and apricots enrich the selection depending on the season. Dried fruit and nuts are often served with tea.

• Halva: Sweet speciality available in different varieties, served, for example, as a dessert or with tea.

• Greetings: “Salom” means hello, while “Assalomu alaykum” is a common traditional greeting. Men usually shake hands. When greeting a woman, wait to see whether she offers her hand.

• Please and thank you: “Lutfan” means please, while “Rahmat” or “Tashakkur” means thank you.

• Clothing: Wear modest clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly in rural areas and at religious sites. Follow local guidance when visiting mosques.

• Dining customs: Hospitality is highly valued. Thank your hosts for invitations and follow their customs. Bread is particularly valued and should be treated with respect.

• Smoking: Extensive smoking bans apply, including on the street. Smoke only where it is expressly permitted.

• Tipping: A small tip for good service is appreciated. In restaurants, check whether a service charge is already included in the bill.

• Photography: Ask permission before photographing people or religious sites. Observe photography bans, particularly around military installations, border posts and government facilities.

• Other advice: Respect religious and social customs and older people. Be particularly considerate during Ramadan. Same-sex sexual activity is not a criminal offence; however, social attitudes are often conservative. Public displays of affection may provoke negative reactions.

• Drinking water quality: Do not drink untreated tap water. Use factory-sealed bottled water or water that has been adequately boiled, including for brushing your teeth. Pay attention to food hygiene and avoid ice cubes of unknown origin.

• Vaccinations: There are generally no blanket vaccination certificate requirements for entry. Check your routine vaccinations, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. Depending on the length of your stay and activities, further vaccinations, for example against hepatitis B, rabies or typhoid, may be advisable. Seek personalised advice before travelling.

• Malaria risk: Tajikistan was certified malaria-free by the WHO in 2023. Antimalarial medication is not required for travel to Tajikistan.

• Mosquito and tick protection: Nevertheless, protect yourself against insect and tick bites. Use suitable insect repellents and wear long clothing when needed.

• Altitude sickness: There is a risk of altitude sickness from approximately 2’500 m. Allow sufficient time to acclimatise and ascend gradually. Do not ascend further if symptoms develop; descend if your condition worsens.

• Medical care is inadequate. Bringing your own dressings and disposable syringes may be useful. Serious injuries and illnesses must be treated outside Tajikistan. Hospitals require a financial guarantee before treatment (credit card or advance payment).

• If you rely on specific medicines, your travel medical kit should contain an adequate supply. However, bear in mind that many countries have special regulations governing the import of medicines containing controlled drugs (e.g. methadone) and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, enquire directly with the relevant foreign representation (embassy or consulate) before departure.

• Before and during your trip, follow media reports on the current situation and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• The political, social and economic situation is generally tense.

• There is a risk of terrorist attacks throughout the country. Potential targets include places and establishments frequented by foreign nationals, such as restaurants. The Terrorism and Kidnapping section highlights the risks of terrorism.

• The Tajik authorities sometimes prohibit tourist travel to individual areas at short notice, particularly the Kuhistoni Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO). Discuss your itinerary with your tour operator and stay in contact with them.

• Take the usual precautions against petty crime. Sexual harassment is common, particularly in Dushanbe. Isolated cases of serious sexual assault have also been reported.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Driving licence: In addition to your Swiss driving licence, you will need an international driving permit. This is only valid together with your national licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: Minimum age and driving experience requirements vary between providers. Check the rental conditions before booking. An off-road vehicle may be necessary in remote mountain regions. A vehicle with a driver who knows the area is a practical way to explore the country.

• Traffic rules: Traffic drives on the right. Seat belts are mandatory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.

• Road conditions: Outside cities, some roads are poorly developed. Mountain routes can be blocked by snow, avalanches, rockfalls or landslides. Check the condition of your route before longer journeys and avoid driving at night.

• Long-distance trains: Rail services are limited, and many connections operate only on certain days of the week. Services include connections between Dushanbe and Tashkent and selected domestic routes. Journey times can be long. Check the current timetable before travelling.

• Regional trains: Regional trains operate on some routes, for example between Dushanbe and Pakhtaabad. Services cover only a small part of the country and are not suitable for reaching most mountain regions.

• Buses and minibuses: Buses and minibuses, known as marshrutkas, serve urban routes and selected regional routes. Shared taxis are also common on longer intercity routes. They often leave only once enough passengers have gathered.

• Urban transport: Dushanbe has buses, trolleybuses, minibuses and taxis. There is no metro or tram system.

• Tickets: Payment methods depend on the type of transport. In Dushanbe, the CityCard electronic payment system is used on buses and trolleybuses. Cash in local currency is customary on minibuses and shared taxis. Ask about fares and payment methods before travelling.

• Other information: Remote destinations often have no regular connections. Organised transfers or vehicles with a driver can make onward travel easier. Allow sufficient time for intercity journeys.

ravel from Switzerland generally involves a connecting flight, for example via Istanbul to Dushanbe with Turkish Airlines. Timetables and available connections may change seasonally.

Main airports:

• Dushanbe Airport (DYU): The country’s main international air hub, located in the capital.

• Khujand Airport (LBD): International airport in northern Tajikistan.

Domestic flights: Services are limited. Somon Air and Tajik Air offer selected domestic connections. Enquire directly with the relevant airline about current operating days and booking options. Flights to mountain regions are particularly dependent on weather conditions.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• Police: 02 (102 from a mobile phone)

• Ambulance: 03 (103 from a mobile phone)

• Fire brigade: 01 (101 from a mobile phone)

Switzerland has no embassy of its own in Tajikistan. The Swiss Embassy in Kazakhstan is responsible for consular matters, with Tajikistan among the countries it covers. Its contact details are:

Embassy of Switzerland
62 Kosmonavtov Street, 8F
Microdistrict Chubary
010000 Astana
Kazakhstan
Tel.: +7 717 297 98 92 / +7 717 297 98 93
Email: astana@eda.admin.ch

However, there is a Swiss Cooperation Office in Tajikistan, which oversees development cooperation projects:

Swiss Cooperation Office and Consular Agency
3, Tolstoy Street
734003 Dushanbe
Tajikistan
Tel.: +992 44 600 54 00 / +992 44 600 54 55
Email: dushanbe@eda.admin.ch

Specific regional risks

• Border region with Kyrgyzstan: Travel to the border region with Kyrgyzstan is advised against. The border conflict repeatedly leads to fighting, even despite ceasefires. The situation remains tense, and most border crossings are closed. Check with local authorities in advance.

• Border region with Afghanistan: Travel to the border region with Afghanistan is advised against. The precarious security situation may lead to incursions by terrorist groups, exchanges of fire and clashes between smugglers and security forces. Roads may be closed, and security forces maintain an increased presence.

• Kuhistoni Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO): Tensions between the authorities and the population may lead to demonstrations, roadblocks and violent clashes. Travellers should consider alternative routes and keep informed about the current situation. Access to the region may be closed to foreigners at short notice.

• Minefields and unexploded ordnance: Minefields and unexploded ordnance exist in areas such as Sangvor, Rasht and parts of GBAO. Stay on main roads and seek information from local authorities.

Specific legal provisions

• Photographing military installations, airports, bridges, administrative buildings and facilities, and public buildings is prohibited.

• Disparaging the president or members of the authorities, including on social media, is also prohibited.

• Comments and judgements on social media, as well as messages with potentially political content, are not tolerated. The relevant laws are very restrictive and may be rigorously enforced.

• Violations of drug legislation are punished with lengthy prison sentences, even for very small quantities and any type of drug.

• Prison conditions are precarious: overcrowded cells, inadequate food, risk of tuberculosis infection, etc.

Natural hazards

• Earthquakes: Tajikistan lies in a seismically active zone, so earthquakes may occur at any time.

• Weather and environmental hazards: Heavy precipitation and avalanches occur in the mountains in winter and spring. In summer and autumn, mudslides, floods, rockfalls and landslides may make roads and settlements inaccessible. Individual settlements may remain isolated for several days, also affecting infrastructure.

• Outdoor activities: Trekking tours should only be undertaken with qualified local guides. Good preparation and suitable equipment are essential. Altitude sickness in high mountain regions should not be underestimated.

• What to do during a natural disaster: Contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the authorities’ instructions. If international communications are disrupted, the Swiss Consular Agency in Dushanbe can be contacted.

Special notes

• Police checks are frequent. Therefore, always carry your passport or a photocopy with you.

• Access to certain areas is restricted and only possible with a special permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dushanbe (Protocol Service). Travel to the Kuhistoni Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) also requires a special permit.

• Further information is available from the Permanent Mission of Tajikistan in Geneva. Also ask them about the regulations concerning registration with the local OVIR