Dushanbe: Gissar Ancient City

Location: Gissar Basin, 26 km west of Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. Famous features: A group of ancient buildings scattered over 86 hectares, including the Gissar Fortress, fortress arches, brick caravanserai, old religious school, new religious school, baptismal site, square, and the Mausoleum of Mahdumi Azam. Most of these buildings were built between the 8th and 19th centuries, showcasing the urban landscape and cultural exchanges of the ancient Silk Road. Related stories: The ancient city was inhabited as early as the 3rd to 4th century BC and was an important city on the ancient Silk Road, witnessing trade and cultural exchanges in Central Asia. Opening hours: Usually open from 8:00 to 18:00. Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours. Please protect the environment and do not damage the ancient buildings and sites. Ticket price: Ticket prices are subject to the announcement of the scenic spot on the day. No recent price changes have been found. Things to do: Visit the ancient sites: Enter the ancient city through the city gate and visit the important ancient sites along the main road, such as the fortress, arches, and caravanserai, to experience the layout and architectural style of the ancient city. Cultural experience: Some traditional buildings in the ancient city may have local cultural displays and performances, such as traditional music and dance. You can stop to enjoy them and learn more about the traditional culture of Tajikistan. Take photos: The ancient city has a unique architectural style and beautiful scenery, making it a great place to take photos. You can take photos in front of iconic buildings such as the city gate, tower, and square to capture the beautiful moments of your trip. Transportation: You can take public transportation to Dushanbe West Station and then transfer to a shuttle bus to Gissar Ancient City. You can also choose to rent a car or carpool, which is more convenient and faster, but be sure to choose a regular vehicle and driver to ensure a safe trip. Itinerary: Nearby: There are some local villages around the ancient city. You can visit the villages to experience the rural life of Tajikistan and taste the local farm food. In addition, there are some natural landscapes, such as mountains and rivers, not far from the ancient city. You can visit them after visiting the ancient city to enjoy the natural beauty. Accommodation: If you want to stay near the ancient city, you can choose a local homestay or small hotel to experience the local life. If you prefer the convenience of the city, you can choose to return to Dushanbe for accommodation, such as the Atlas Hotel, which has clean and tidy rooms and a good location. Preparation: Bring comfortable sneakers or casual shoes for walking in the ancient city. Prepare sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen for sun protection. Also, as there may not be many dining facilities in the ancient city, it is recommended to bring some drinking water and snacks.