Nurek, also known as Norak, is a city in southern Tajikistan, located approximately 70–75 km east of Dushanbe, the country's capital. The city is best known for the Nurek Dam, a major hydroelectric structure built on the Vakhsh River.
The modern city developed during the construction of the Nurek Hydroelectric Power Station. On December 16, 1960, the settlement of Nurek was granted town status under district jurisdiction. The construction of the power station transformed the area into an important center for hydroelectric power generation in Tajikistan.
Nurek is located along the Vakhsh River in southern Tajikistan. The surrounding landscape includes river valleys, mountain slopes, and the large Nurek Reservoir. Check a reliable geographic source before publishing the city's exact elevation, as figures can differ depending on the location measured.
On July 12, 1961, Nurek was granted the status of a city under republican jurisdiction. On September 8, 1988, it became part of the Khatlon Region. The city's modern development is closely associated with the construction and expansion of the Nurek Hydroelectric Power Station, which became one of Tajikistan's most important energy facilities.
Learn more about the country's capital and cultural attractions with the DOCA TOURS Dushanbe Day Tour.
Nurek Hydroelectric Power Station: Construction began in 1961, and the first generating unit entered service in 1972. The station was designed with an installed capacity of approximately 3,000 MW. The dam is around 300 meters high and controls the flow of the Vakhsh River.
Other economic activities and facilities in the area include construction-related industries and services supporting the city and the power station.
The Nurek Optical-Electronic Complex, also known as Okno (“Window”), is a space-surveillance facility associated with Russia's military infrastructure. As this is a specialized military installation, details should be checked against reliable sources before publication.
The Nurek Reservoir (Tajik: Obanbori Norak) is an artificial reservoir formed by the Nurek Dam on the Vakhsh River. It is one of Tajikistan's major water-storage facilities and supports hydroelectric power generation and water management.
The reservoir began filling in 1972. Official Tajik sources report a surface area of approximately 98 km², a total volume of around 10.5 km³, and a length of about 70 km. It helps regulate seasonal flow in the Vakhsh River and provides water for irrigation. For technical details, consult the official information on Nurek Dam and the World Bank's report on the Nurek hydropower plant.
Travelers interested in discovering Tajikistan can explore the country's cultural landmarks and natural landscapes with DOCA TOURS. Browse our Tajikistan destinations and tours or consider a day tour in Dushanbe as part of a wider trip through Central Asia.
