Isfara, Tajikistan is a city located in northern Tajikistan, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. The city was once the seat of the former Isfara District and is home to several territorial disputes between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan over the area of Isfara Valley. Despite these conflicts, Isfara is a city that offers a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique local culture.
Isfara’s history dates back centuries, with the first mention of the town coming from the famous author Bābor, who praised the orchards and fruits of the area, particularly the almonds. The construction of large public buildings, such as mosques and medreseh, began in the 16th century and continued through the 18th century when Isfara was the seat of the Khan of Ḵoqand, whose wars with Bokhara resulted in the destruction of some of the city’s historical monuments.
The population of Isfara is mostly Tajik, and the city is situated near the border of three independent states: Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, at a height of 863m above sea level. The river Isfara flows through the city, and its territory covers approximately 832 km².
Isfara experiences a humid continental climate with an average temperature of 11.8°C (53.2°F). The warmest month is July with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F), and the coldest month is January with an average temperature of -2.7°C (27.1°F). The city receives an average of 544.6mm (21.4in) of precipitation and experiences approximately 74.3 days of participation.
Before 2018, Isfara was the seat of Isfara District, which covered the same area as the present city of Isfara. The city proper covers three towns and nine jamoats. Isfara’s economy is powered by approximately 20 industrial companies that produce electrical equipment, chemical and metallurgical products, construction materials, food products, and more. The city is also famous for its apricot orchards.
If you’re planning a visit to Tajikistan, be sure to include Isfara on your itinerary. The city’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique local culture make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an authentic experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Hazrati Shoh Mausoleum, located around 20 km south of Isfara in the village of Chorku. Carved from wood, partly dating back to the 8th century, this unique structure is a one-of-a-kind sight in Central Asia. Isfara is a city that truly has it all.