Ninety-three percent of Tajikistan's territory is mountainous, so it is fitting to provide geographic rather than administrative borders of the country. The Eastern half of the country is called The Pamir or the "Roof of the World" which is the meeting point of the world's highest mountain ranges, including the Karakoram, the Himalayas to the South, the Hindu Kush to the West and the Tien Shan in the North-East.
Tajikistan is nestled in the south-eastern part of Central Asia. In the West and North it borders with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, in the South with Afghanistan, and in the East, in the most mountainous area -- with China. Its history is intertwined with that of the neighboring countries of Central Asia and was connected through the ancient trading route of the Silk Road.
The Zerafshan Valley (also Zarafshan and Zarafshon) of Tajikistan lies at a main intersection of the famous Silk Road, connecting the vast Central Asian Steppes with the Mountain Ranges of the Western Pamirs and Alai Massive. Zerafshan's rich history dates back more than 6000 years -- from one of the earliest Bronze Age settlements at Sarazm to become the last refuge of Zoroastrian traditions.
Zerafshan, which means "Gold Bearing River" in Tajik, is the main stream which crosses the valley and supplies its inhabitants with a most precious resource: Water. Today much of Tajikistan remains untouched by tourism. The snow capped peaks of the Fann Mountains and deep blue lakes of the beautiful Zerafshan Valley are situated less than 50km from Samarkand but remain off the beaten track. Visitors are free to explore the natural wonders and ancient treasures undisturbed. Tajikistan, located in the heart of the Central Asia invites you to immerse yourself into ancient history, to absorb beautiful nature and enjoy unparalleled hospitality of the people of our wonderful country.
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