There is also a smaller and shrinking Russian Orthodox minority and a small Jewish community. 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round, 2-pin continental plugs are standard. IDD to Tajikistan is available but services are unreliable. International calls can also be ordered from some hotels such as the Hotel Tajikistan and the Hotel Independence.
International calls have to go through the operator.
Direct-dial calls within the CIS are obtained by dialling 8 and waiting for another dial tone and then dialling the city code. Calls within the city limits are free of charge. Telegram services are available from post offices in large towns. Stamped envelopes can be bought from post offices. Both surface and air mail are available for parcels.