Tajikistan Border Crossings (January 2026 Update)
Tajikistan’s land borders facilitate overland adventures across Central Asia, connecting to Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. As of early 2026, most major crossings remain open to foreigners, though Afghanistan options are limited due to security and political factors. Always verify current status locally or via embassies, as conditions can change rapidly.
Kyrgyzstan Borders
Open to foreigners:
- Kyzyl-Art Pass – Bor-Döbö — Main Pamir Highway route linking Karakul (Tajikistan) to Sary Tash/Osh (Kyrgyzstan). No special permission required since July 2025. High-altitude (4,280m) with stunning views.
- Isfara – Batken & Ovchi Kalacha – Kulundu — Fergana Valley options between Khujand and Osh/Isfana.
Bilateral (closed to foreigners):
- Jirgatol – Karamyk.
Uzbekistan Borders
Multiple crossings open and generally straightforward:
- Buston – Oybek → Khujand to Tashkent.
- Konibodom – Beshariq → Khujand to Kokand (Fergana Valley).
- Panjakent – Samarkand → Ideal for combining Fann Mountains with Samarkand; reports of occasional corruption (bribes demanded) in recent years, but many cross smoothly.
- Tursanzade – Denau → Dushanbe to southeastern Uzbekistan.
- Dusti – Pap → Namangan to Khujand area.
China Border
- Qolma Pass (Kulma/Kalasu) — Sole crossing, linking Murghab (Tajikistan) to Tashkurgan/Kashgar (Xinjiang, China). Open to foreigners; hitch with trucks (no private vehicles or walking across). Limited hours/days; Mandarin helpful.
Afghanistan Borders
Security remains volatile—check advisories carefully.
Open to foreigners:
- Panji Poyon – Shir Khan Bandar — Primary route from Dushanbe area to Kunduz. Afghan visa on arrival available here (~$100 USD cash). Most reliable current option.
Closed or not recommended:
- Ishkashim – Sultan Eshkashim (Wakhan gateway) → Closed as of late 2025.
- Others (Khorog-Shegnan, Kokul-Darkod, Ruzvai-Nusai, Kupruki Vanj-Jomarji Bolo, Langar) → Closed.
Tajikistan’s borders make it a key overland hub—pair the Pamir Highway with Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities or Kyrgyzstan’s mountains for an epic trip. Safe travels!