GornoBadakhshan

Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) is an autonomous region in the eastern part of Tajikistan. It is the country’s largest administrative region by area and is dominated by the Pamir Mountains. The regional capital is Khorugh (also spelled Kharg or Khorugh). GBAO is commonly referred to by its abbreviation and is known as Gorno-Badakhshan or GBAO in Tajik sources.

Geography and borders

GBAO covers a high, rugged landscape with deep valleys and extensive glaciated terrain. It is bordered by Afghanistan to the south and east, China to the far east along the Pamir watershed, and Tajikistan’s other regions to the north and west. The region contains several high-altitude valleys and passes, including the Rasht Valley and remote border areas that connect with the broader Pamir mountain system.

Administrative divisions

The region is divided into several districts, including Darvoz, Ishkashim, Shughnon, Roshtqal’a (Rasht Valley), Murghab, and Rushan, with Khorugh serving as the administrative center. These districts group diverse Pamiri communities within a single autonomous region of Tajikistan.

Population and culture

GBAO is home to a mix of Pamiri ethnic groups, including Tajiks, Shuglis (Shughnon), Ishkashimis, Wakhi, and others. Local languages include Tajik (Persian) alongside Pamiri languages such as Shugni, Ishkashimi, and Wakhi. The region is predominantly Muslim, with Sunni and Ismaili communities represented in different valleys.

Economy and transportation

The economy is mainly based on pastoralism, agriculture in valley bottoms, and remittances from seasonal labor. Tourism, particularly in the Pamirs, has grown in recent years. Transportation relies on the Pamir Highway (M-41) and limited air links, with prolonged periods of isolation possible due to weather and terrain.