The suffix “-stan” is a Persian word that means “land of” or “place of”, and is commonly used in the names of countries and regions in Central and South Asia. In this article, we will explore how many countries end in “-stan”, and examine some of the unique features and characteristics of each of these countries.
There are a total of seven countries in the world that end in “-stan”. These countries are Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Each of these countries has its own unique culture, history, and geography, and is home to a range of fascinating landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural attractions.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia, with a population of around 18 million people. It is situated in the northern part of the region, and is bordered by Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Kazakhstan has a rich and diverse history, and is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the towering mountains of the Tian Shan range to the vast steppes and deserts that cover much of the country.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kazakhstan is the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which is located in the southern part of the country and is the largest space launch facility in the world. Kazakhstan is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the Almaty Opera House, the Bayterek Tower, and the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a small mountainous country in Central Asia, with a population of around 6 million people. It is situated to the east of Kazakhstan, and is bordered by China, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Kyrgyzstan is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the towering peaks of the Tien Shan mountain range and the pristine alpine lakes and rivers that dot the landscape.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Kyrgyzstan is the Burana Tower, which is located near the city of Tokmok and dates back to the 11th century. The country is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the Osh Bazaar, the National Museum of Kyrgyzstan, and the Tash Rabat Caravanserai, which dates back to the 15th century.
Pakistan
Pakistan is a large country in South Asia, with a population of around 225 million people. It is situated to the south of Afghanistan, and is bordered by India, China, and Iran. Pakistan has a rich and diverse history, and is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the rugged deserts and coastline that cover much of the country.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Pakistan is the Badshahi Mosque, which is located in the city of Lahore and is one of the largest mosques in the world. Pakistan is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the Mohenjo-daro archaeological site, the Lahore Fort, and the Karakoram Highway, which is one of the highest paved roads in the world.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a landlocked country in South Asia, with a population of around 38 million people. It is situated to the east of Iran and to the south of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Afghanistan has a long and complex history, and is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the towering mountains of the Hindu Kush to the rugged deserts and coastline that cover much of the country.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Afghanistan is the Bamiyan Buddhas, which were giant statues of Buddha that were carved into the side of a cliff in the Bamiyan Valley in central Afghanistan. Unfortunately, they were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. Afghanistan is also home to a number of other cultural and historical attractions, including the ancient city of Herat, the Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, and the Kabul Museum.
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is a desert country in Central Asia, with a population of around 6 million people. It is situated to the east of the Caspian Sea, and is bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. Turkmenistan has a rich and diverse history, and is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the towering sand dunes of the Karakum Desert to the pristine beaches of the Caspian Sea.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Turkmenistan is the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell”, which is a burning natural gas field that has been on fire since 1971. Turkmenistan is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the ancient city of Merv, the Kow-Ata underground lake, and the Turkmen Carpet Museum.
Tajikistan
Tajikistan is a mountainous country in Central Asia, with a population of around 9 million people. It is situated to the south of Kyrgyzstan, and is bordered by Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and China. Tajikistan is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the towering peaks of the Pamir Mountains and the pristine alpine lakes and rivers that dot the landscape.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Tajikistan is the Ismaili Center in Dushanbe, which is a beautiful and modern building that was designed by the famous architect Fumihiko Maki. Tajikistan is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including the ancient city of Penjikent, the National Museum of Tajikistan, and the Hissar Fortress.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a large country in Central Asia, with a population of around 34 million people. It is situated to the north of Afghanistan, and is bordered by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. Uzbekistan has a rich and diverse history, and is known for its stunning natural scenery, from the towering peaks of the Tian Shan to the vast deserts and steppes that cover much of the country.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Uzbekistan is the Registan, which is a beautiful and ornate complex of three madrasahs that were built in the 15th and 17th centuries in the city of Samarkand. Uzbekistan is also home to a number of other cultural and historical attractions, including the ancient city of Bukhara, the Khiva fortress, and the Chor Minor madrasah in the city of Khiva.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a total of seven countries in the world that end in “-stan”: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Each of these countries has its own unique culture, history, and geography, and is home to a range of fascinating landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural attractions. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, hiking through pristine mountain landscapes, or immersing yourself in local culture and history, there is something for everyone in these beautiful and diverse countries.
