Dushanbe
Republic of Tajikistan
September 5, 2019
Hello,
In a previous letter I declared that “The Tajiks are the most kind and generous people I have ever met.” I stand by my description. But I neglected to provide any examples.
In another letter, I asked you to “Remind me to tell you the story about the Watermelon Man.”
So please allow me to explain.
My very first experience in Tajikistan is unique:
Bookends: Summerfest and Book Fair
Dushanbe
Republic of Tajikistan
September 4, 2019
On my first day in Dushanbe, Nigora, my Tajik friend, invited me to join her to celebrate Summerfest.
On my last day in Dushanbe, Sudat, a Kurdish man, a fellow guest at my hotel, invited me to accompany him to the Annual International Book Exhibition at the National Library.
Khorugh City
Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region
Republic of Tajikistan
August 27, 2019
Good-bye to the Panj River
The route of the Panj River is remarkable. And invigorating.
Five tributaries crash down the mountains to join the Panj. At 1125 km (699 miles) long, it forms the major border between Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
The Panj completes its rambunctious journey in Termez, Uzbekistan where it joins the Amu Darya, an important river in Central Asia. In ancient times the Amu was called by its Latin name, the Oxus.
The Pamir Mountains
Tajikistan
August 25, 2019
Hello,
The traffic is sparse in the mountains.
But what traffic we encounter is as intimidating and daunting as a mountain pass.
Happy trails.
Jan
Sher's House Inn
Alichur Village
Murghhob District (pop 1788)
Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Province
Republic of Tajikistan
August 25, 2019
Sunrise
Alichur means “Ali's curse” and is reputed to have been spoken by the prophet's son-in-law Ali on a journey through the area, on account of the harsh climate and penetrating winds. (Above the tree line at 3991m or 2.5 mi.)
Despite the climate and the wind, I wake up early in this tiny village and walk across the plateau. I look forward to a cloudless sky and the morning sun as it illuminates the surrounding mountains.
