Understand

The ancient city of Penjikent, situated in the Zarafshan Valley just 60 km east of Samarkand, holds a fascinating history. Its name, derived from "panj" meaning "five" and "kant" meaning "settlements," refers to its origin as a collection of five settlements. Notably, Penjikent was the easternmost city of Sogdia, an ancient civilization. The extensive excavations conducted since 1947 have made Penjikent one of the most thoroughly studied early medieval cities in all of Asia. The city existed from the 5th century and thrived until the 770s. Its remarkable frescoes, some of which can be admired in the small Rudaki Museum at Penjikent, while others are showcased in Dushanbe and the prestigious Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, are a testament to the city's artistic glory.

Get in

Welcome to Panjakent and the Zeravshan valley! This incredible destination can be accessed from Samarkand in Uzbekistan. To embark on this adventure, make sure you have a valid Tajik visa and a double/multi-entry Uzbek visa if you plan on returning the same way. While there is no public transport crossing the border, you can switch taxis at the border. Taxis depart from Pandjakent Koutchasi, located in the southeastern part of the Registan. The journey to the border takes approximately 30 minutes and costs US$3 per person. Once at the border, it's another 30-minute ride costing an additional US$3 per person. If you prefer a hassle-free option, travel agents in Samarkand offer a comprehensive trip package for about US$40. This includes transportation, a guide, admission fees, and the "border crossing fee." Exciting adventures await in Panjakent!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Plov (also known as Osh or Plov) - This national dish of Tajikistan is a hearty rice pilaf that often contains meat, typically lamb or beef, as well as carrots, onions, and other seasonings. The dish is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together into a delicious, aromatic experience. Plov is often served with additional sprinklings of garlic, cilantro, and paprika, adding to its richness.

Qurut - A popular Tajikistani snack made from sunflower seeds, Qurut is prepared by soaking the seeds overnight and then drying them out again. Once dried, the seeds are roasted and eaten as a crunchy, nutritious treat. Sometimes, they're seasoned with salt or mixed with herbs for added flavor. Qurut is known for being an energy-boosting snack, making it a staple for those living in mountainous regions.

Felafel (Falafel) - Tajikistan's adaptation of the Middle Eastern classic, Felafel is a fried ball made primarily from crushed chickpeas, herbs, and spices. These tasty treats are often served as a standalone snack or embedded within a sandwich, accompanied by fresh vegetables and sauces. While traditionally a vegetarian dish, some variations may contain small amounts of meat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing