Among the many amazing destinations throughout Central Asia, Dushanbe may be one of the most interesting and unique cities to visit. The capital city of Tajikistan, this city has a completely different feel from anywhere else in the world. Currently, this city is undergoing massive changes with construction sites all over the place. You can travel to some of the most impoverished neighborhoods in Tajikistan and then end up in an opulent neighborhood of skyscrapers and luxurious houses. The city was ravaged by a brutal civil war in the 1990s and has been rebuilding ever since. And it’s likely that Dushanbe will look nothing like it does today in 10 years.
Although very few people choose to spend their vacation time by going to the Central Asian nation of Tajikistan, this country is home to some of the most interesting experiences that you can have anywhere in the world. So, if you want to get off the beaten path and do something a little different, book a flight to Dushanbe and experience all of the city’s colorful markets, old fortresses, beautiful architecture, and unique culture. And, if you really want to make the most out of your time in Dushanbe, the best way to do so is by hiring a motorcycle and cruising around at your leisure.
Here is everything you need to know about motorbike hire in Riga. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a scooter as well. This guide includes:
- Whether it’s safe to hire a motorbike in Dushanbe
- Whether you need an international driving permit to hire a motorbike in Tajikistan
- The normal cost of motorcycle rental in Dushanbe
- The best places to find motorbike rental in Dushanbe
- The best things to do in Dushanbe by motorcycle
Is It Dangerous to Hire a Motorcycle in Dushanbe?
First of all, if you’re worried about simply traveling to Tajikistan, much less driving there, you should know that the city of Dushanbe is relatively safe. There have been some instances of petty crime and muggings against foreigners but, for the most part, the city is fairly calm and peaceful. Women, though, should be wary about going out alone at night and may be harassed while walking around during the day. If you watch your back, you should be just fine while staying in Dushanbe.
In terms of driving in Dushanbe, the road conditions are very good, especially in the wealthier areas around the city. However, in these wealthy parts of the city, you need to look in your rearview mirror and make sure that there isn’t some high-powered sports car about to fly by you. The upper class of Dushanbe likes to drive very fast.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Hire a Motorbike in Tajikistan?
Regardless of what country you come from, you are required to have an international driving permit to rent a motorbike in Tajikistan. If you fail to present a police officer with this document, you could find yourself in some serious trouble.
If you want to apply for your international driving permit, you can do so online here. There is an application fee of $20 and the permit usually takes about two weeks to arrive in the mail, so you should make sure to apply at least two weeks before departing from your home country. Once you have your IDP, it will be valid for one full year.
What Is the Average Price of Motorbike Rental in Dushanbe?
Normally, prices are fairly low in the country of Tajikistan. However, you have to remember that Dushanbe is home to the country’s super-wealthy elite, so things are going to be far more expensive than in other parts of the country. For instance, if you want to hire a motorbike, such as a Suzuki DR-Z 400, you’ll probably have to pay around €90 per day. Alternatively, if you want to ride on four wheels, you could rent an ATV, such as a Honda TRX 400, for about €230 per day.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much in terms of affordable options in the city of Dushanbe. But, if you do choose to rent a vehicle, you could potentially save some money by asking your rental company if they offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly rentals if you plan on staying in Dushanbe for a while.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Dushanbe by Motorcycle?
Now that you know everything you need to rent a motorcycle in Dushanbe, here are the best things to do around the city with your rented motorbike:
Pamir Highway
Drive only 11 minutes north from the center of Dushanbe and you’ll be able to merge onto Highway M41, better known as the Pamir Highway, the most famous and most scenic highway in Central Asia. This road actually traverses the Pamir Mountains that span Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan, giving you the opportunity to drive through all of these countries, if you’re daring enough.
If you just want to stay in the area around Tajikistan, you can still drive on some amazing roads through the high desert and see some incredible views. Just make sure to bring lots of water and a first aid kit. Towns along this road are scarce.
Komsomol Park
The name of Komsomol Park alludes to the Soviet history of the city of Dushanbe. In fact, the park itself was built by the Soviet Youth organization and is still frequented by young people today. There are several beer gardens and amazing walking paths that you can check out. It’s probably the best place for a picnic in Dushanbe.
While you’re there, you’ll inevitably run into Komsomol Lake, which is one of the best places in the city to get a view of Dushanbe’s skyline. Grab a beer from one of the local vendors and watch the sun drop below the modern skyscrapers of Dushanbe.
Dushanbe Flagpole
One of the strange claims to fame for the city of Dushanbe is the fact that it’s home to the third tallest flagpole in the world. This free-standing flagpole stands outside of the Palace of Nations and reaches a height of 165 meters (541 feet). When it was erected in 2011, it was the tallest flagpole in the world until it was beaten out in 2014 by a flagpole in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Of course, the massive Tajikistani flag is also something to behold, as is the Palace of Nations that sits behind it. The palace is home to the president of Tajikistan and is covered with precious materials and stones.
Drive From Dushanbe on a Rented Motorcycle
Of course, the city of Dushanbe is amazing and worth seeing. But, if you’re into some adventurous driving, the best thing you can do in the area is hire a motorcycle and let the Pamir Highway take you where it will. It will be a journey you’ll never forget.
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