So Different Tajikistan

Pamir has a special position. It’s the most high-altitude region not only of Tajikistan but of all the former Soviet Union. Its Gorno-Badakhshanskaya autonomous region occupies almost a half of all the country but its population is only 3% from all the republic’s one. Local citizens are officially considered to be Tajiks but in fact they are a group of peoples with their own languages, culture and even religion.

Khorog is bordering Afghanistan. The town is inhabited by representatives of all Pamir peoples. There are some universities here. Locals like to study, it’s a part of their religion. Though the local young people prefer English today, they are good at Russian too.

Tourists like this place, there are many hotels and guest houses in the area.

View of the town

Outskirts. Nearby is one of the most high-altitude botanic gardens of the world.

Each plot of land is highly valued.

Despite the heights it’s very hot in summer, so children like to play in water.

Rapid Gunt river

Locals do not look similar to the citizens of western Tajikistan, they sooner resemble inhabitants of southern Europe.

Such headwear is typical for both women and men.

Local women are more emancipated than the women in western Tajikistan. And prettier.

During some musical festival

Playing the dombra

Spectators

Local man in a Chinese shirt…

Real Tajiks from Dushanbe

Houses are mostly private ones, with one storey. Most of them are built according to the traditional Pamir plan. Usually such houses have one spacious square room and a long corridor with some annexes. The roof is supported by five pillars.

Aga Khan images are frequently used in interiors.

Wedding celebration

The bride is always covered

Aga Khan portrait to the left

Following traditions…

The bride is fed with some special food

The dowry

Wedding celebration in the restaurant

The couples live in Moscow but came to celebrate the wedding on the native land.

Owner of the restaurant

Source ; Englishrussia.com