General
Dushanbe
Khujand
Khorugh
Border Checkpoint Bribes
Unofficial Fees at Crossings
At remote border points like the Tajik-Kyrgyz border near Karakul Lake or Tajik-Afghan crossings, officials may fabricate issues with vehicle permits or passports and demand bribes ranging from 50-200 TJS, often under the guise of 'processing fees' for tourists in 4x4 vehicles.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Prepare all documents in advance through official Tajik embassies and carry photocopies to show compliance.
- Politely insist on official receipts in Tajik or English, as this can expose the unofficial nature of the demand.
- Travel during daylight and with a local driver familiar with routes, who can negotiate using common phrases like 'Inshalla, rasmiy hujjatlar' (hopefully, official documents).
Rural Homestay Overcharges
Hidden Meal and Service Fees
In rural areas like the Fann Mountains, homestay hosts may initially quote a low rate of 100-150 TJS per night but later add charges for 'extra' meals or hot water, totaling an additional 50-100 TJS, exploiting tourists' reliance on word-of-mouth recommendations.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Confirm the full price including meals via apps like Booking.com before arrival, specifying items in local terms like 'non' for bread.
- Use cash sparingly and request a handwritten receipt in Tajik script to document agreements.
- Check for government-registered homestays through the Tajik Committee for Tourism, which often lists verified options in Pamir regions.