Tajikistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, known for its rugged mountains and rich cultural heritage. With a history that spans millennia, it boasts a diverse population and a dynamic mix of traditions and modern developments. Read more about Tajikistan.
Tajikistan Trivia Quiz Questions
- What is the predominant climate in Tajikistan?
Tropical
Continental
Desert - What year did Tajikistan gain independence from the Soviet Union?
1991
1989
1995 - What is a famous export of Tajikistan?
Oil
Cotton
Gold - What is the literacy rate in Tajikistan?
About 50%
About 99%
About 75% - Which body of water borders Tajikistan to the north?
Caspian Sea
Aral Sea
Syr Darya - How is Tajikistan’s landscape predominantly characterized?
Desert
Mountains
Plains - What sport is popular in Tajikistan?
Football
Wrestling
Cricket - What is a popular traditional dish in Tajikistan?
Borscht
Plov
Sushi - What major festival is celebrated in Tajikistan?
Diwali
Nowruz
Christmas - Which festival in Tajikistan marks the end of winter?
Eid al-Fitr
Shabe Yalda
Holi - What is the official language of Tajikistan?
Uzbek
Persian
Tajik - What is the capital of Tajikistan?
Dushanbe
Astana
Tashkent - Which river is prominent in Tajikistan?
Volga River
Amu Darya
Nile River - What is a major natural resource in Tajikistan?
Oil
Aluminum
Timber - Which mountain range covers much of Tajikistan?
Himalayas
Andes
Pamir Mountains - What is the traditional form of music in Tajikistan?
Pop
Falak
Opera - What is a common mode of transportation in rural Tajikistan?
Cars
Donkeys
Bicycles - What is the predominant religion in Tajikistan?
Christianity
Islam
Buddhism - Which neighboring country has a significant cultural influence on Tajikistan?
China
Afghanistan
Russia - Which empire historically ruled over Tajikistan?
Ottoman Empire
Roman Empire
Persian Empire - What is the name of the ancient Silk Road city in Tajikistan?
Samarkand
Khujand
Bukhara - Which animal is native to Tajikistan’s mountains?
Tiger
Snow Leopard
Elephant - Which currency is used in Tajikistan?
Ruble
Somoni
Dinar - What is the highest peak in Tajikistan?
Mount Everest
Ismoil Somoni Peak
K2
The Tajikistan trivia quiz answers are at the end of the page.
More About Tajikistan
Geography
Tajikistan is in Central Asia, bordered by Afghanistan to the south, Uzbekistan to the west, Kyrgyzstan to the north, and China to the east. The country is predominantly mountainous, with over 90% of its land covered by the Pamir and Alay mountain ranges. The climate varies from arid in the lowlands to polar in the highest elevations.
Demographics
The population of Tajikistan is approximately 9.5 million. Most of the population are ethnic Tajiks, with Uzbeks being the most significant minority. Tajik, a variety of Persian, is the official language, while Russian is widely used in government and business. Islam, particularly Sunni Islam, is the predominant religion.
History
Tajikistan has a rich historical tapestry, with its territory being part of various empires and dynasties, such as the Persian Empire, the Samanid Empire, and the Soviet Union. It gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The country experienced a civil war from 1992 to 1997, significantly impacting its development.
Government and Politics
Tajikistan is a presidential republic, and Emomali Rahmon has been president since 1994. The political landscape is dominated by the People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan. The country has a bicameral parliament consisting of the National Assembly and the Assembly of Representatives. Recent elections have faced criticism from international observers for lacking transparency.
Economy
The economy of Tajikistan is primarily agricultural, with cotton being a significant crop. The country also relies on remittances from Tajik workers abroad, particularly in Russia. Tajikistan has substantial reserves of minerals such as silver, gold, and uranium. Despite its natural resources, the country remains one of the poorest in Central Asia, with a low GDP per capita.
Culture
Tajik culture is a blend of ancient Persian influences and local traditions. Traditional music, dance, and poetry are integral parts of cultural life. The Navruz festival, celebrating the Persian New Year, is one of the most important cultural events. The cuisine includes plov (rice with meat and vegetables) and sambusa (stuffed pastries).
Education and Health
The education system in Tajikistan consists of primary, secondary, and higher education, with a literacy rate of over 99%. However, the quality of education varies significantly across the country. The healthcare system needs to be developed, with limited access to medical facilities and services, particularly in rural areas.
Infrastructure
Tajikistan’s transportation infrastructure includes a network of roads, railways, and airports, though many need modernisation. The country’s mountainous terrain makes transportation challenging. The communication infrastructure has been improving, increasing mobile and internet penetration rates.
Environmental Issues
Tajikistan faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. The melting of glaciers due to climate change is a significant concern, impacting water supply for agriculture and hydroelectric power. The government and international organisations work on various conservation and environmental protection initiatives.
Tourism
Tourism in Tajikistan is growing, with visitors attracted to its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Popular destinations include the Pamir Highway, the ancient city of Khujand, and the Iskanderkul Lake. Travellers are advised to respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural and conservative areas.
Tajikistan Trivia Quiz Answers
- Continental
- 1991
- Cotton
- About 99%
- Aral Sea
- Mountains
- Wrestling
- Plov
- Nowruz
- Shabe Yalda
- Tajik
- Dushanbe
- Amu Darya
- Aluminum
- Pamir Mountains
- Falak
- Donkeys
- Islam
- Afghanistan
- Persian Empire
- Khujand
- Snow Leopard
- Somoni
- Ismoil Somoni Peak