Tajikistan

Tajikistan is a country in Central Asia. It does not touch any sea or ocean. More than 90 percent of the country is covered by mountains. The tall Pamir Mountains are nicknamed the Roof of the World. Tajikistan's capital city is Dushanbe.

Mountains and Rivers

The Pamir Mountains have some of the tallest peaks in the world. Snow covers them even in summer. Glaciers, deep valleys, and fast rivers run through the land. People live in small villages high in the mountains. Snow leopards, ibex, and eagles live in these wild areas. The weather can be very cold in winter and mild in summer.

People and Culture

People in Tajikistan speak Tajik, which is close to Farsi from Iran. They enjoy foods like plov, a rice dish with carrots and meat. Bread called non is served with almost every meal. Music with long-necked string instruments is part of celebrations. Families often gather to share tea and sweets. Poetry is very important in Tajik culture.

Fun Facts

• The Pamir Mountains are called the Roof of the World.
• Tajikistan has some of the world's biggest glaciers outside the poles.
• Snow leopards live in the high mountains of Tajikistan.

Did You Know?

The Fedchenko Glacier in Tajikistan is more than 40 miles long, making it one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions.