European nightlife does not really have a Tajik equivalent. The evenings see women securely ensconced at home leaving men to gather, eat, and take coffee. At the weekend some tourist hotels in the capital encourage sessions by traditional Tajik musicians but as international visits have declined so have these performances. Elsewhere, depending upon the circumstances, revelries can extend to all-night qat chewing gatherings but this marathon of mastication usually surrounds a festivity such as a wedding or religious sermon.
Any notion of a bar culture is present in vestigial form only within the capital, two or three international hotel outlets. The country is not a famous destination for modern travelers, but active recreation enthusiasts will find many interesting entertainments in some areas. First of all, it is important to mention that the country is a Muslim nation, and nightlife is not developed here. To enjoy nighttime entertainment, it is better to check out some other Arabic regions.
Searching for alcohol is fruitless here since Tajikistan banned the sale of alcoholic drinks even in duty-free zones in airports. Many local people chew qat leaves that have a mild narcotic effect; euphoria. As it is believed that these leaves do not cause addiction, Qat is not considered a drug in the country. Of course, tourism in the country is still emerging and has yet to develop, but there are already two main types of activities that attract students from different countries of the world.
There are extreme tourism and sightseeing. Natural conditions and not very developed tourist infrastructure make extreme tourism in the country more exciting and even intriguing. When it comes to historic landmarks, the country is one of the richest countries around the world in this regard. Foreigners and students here can book an excursion to the country’s resorts that include several nights in a camping hotel.
The Tajik cuisine is often compared to that of Russia, but with Afghan and Pakistani influences. Plov is regarded as the national dish, comprising of rice, cubed mutton or beef, and strips of carrot, fried together in fat or vegetable oil that you can try on night-outs. A vegetarian alternative is qurutob; layered crispy bread, yogurt, fried onion, and vegetables. Both dishes are traditionally communal, with a large bowl placed in the center of the table for shared-buffet-diners.
The capital city of Dushanbe is the best option for bars, dancing, and entertainment, with Port Said being one of the best-known nightclubs. It plays western-style club music and has a good range of beers and whiskeys. Male visitors or solo female travelers should be aware that many of the local women in the club are likely to be hookers, although this should not affect a good night out if avoided. The People’s here is another popular nightspot with DJs, drinking, and dancing.
Dushanbe also has an Irish Pub, which is comparatively exorbitant but a good approximation of the real thing, even serving Guinness. It is open from 5:00 p.m. to midnight. Another popular foreigner hangout in Tajikistan is Kellers, which makes its own German-style brew and Chinese and European food, all served in pleasant outdoor seating. For those interested in classical music, ballet, or opera, Ayni Opera and Ballet Theatre has a beautiful ornate interior, where matinees and evening live performances take place.