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Started our day at the Dushanbe bazaar where we witnessed ladies chopping carrots for Plov, barely even watching what they were doing. One was even chatting on her mobile as she deftly chopped away. Not sure how they have not chopped their fingers!! Dushanbe bazaar was a kaleidoscope of colour, especially the spice section and then it was time to get on the bus for our trip to Penjikent.
Traveling from Dushanbe to Panjakent involved backtracking through 24 tunnels on the Varzob Gorge road. Again we found changing landscapes and were quite impressed with the use of natural spring water as the cooling system for drinks. Nothing like being able to buy a cold drink in a hot climate.
Panjakent, known as Penjikent in Russian, is a small city in the Sughd province of Tajikistan on the river Zeravshan, with a population of 52,500. On arrival in Panjakent, the heavens decided to open up with an impressive lightning display so a quick change of plan by our guide. We had a quick visit to the local market (which was undercover) where it was apparent you could buy anything and everything.
We then went to Rudaki Museum. Named for a famous 10th-century Tajik poet, Abu Abdullo Rudaki, this museum celebrates Tajikistan's rich national and cultural history. Exhibits include examples of beautiful frescoes for which the city is famous as well as Zoroastrian statues and sculptures and other historical items from the city's foundation, all the way up to the Soviet era.
We went to Sayohat Teahouse for dinner and then it was on to the hotel for a good night's sleep. The national teahouse "Sayohat" was built according to the national style and historical things collected from all around Tajikistan are on display.
- comments
Ray Harvey Extremely rugged terrain Kate. Is your accommodation of a reasonable standard in most towns? Stay well. What about the alcohol intake? I'd suggest extremely limited to zilch?
Kate Fennell Hi Ray, accommodation has been good and even the night in the yurt was comfortable. Interestingly we have had no problems getting local beer to drink!!