Enjoy a 15-Day Adventure Through Mysterious Uzbekistan and Ancient Turkmenistan (Copy)

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are unique desert countries just waiting to be explored. In Uzbekistan you will wander around the striking historical cities of Tashkent, Khiva, Samarkand, and Bukhara. Upon discovering these cities, uncover treasures such as the striking architectural design of the Tila Shaikh mosque, the heart of Samarkand at Registan Square, and be fully immersed in traditional Uzbek culture with a memorable evening dinner at a local Uzbek home. After exploring the traditional and unique architecture Uzbekistan has to offer, unearth the hidden treasures of Turkmenistan. This country is the least explored country in Central Asia. Here you will uncover Ashgabat – known as one of Central Asia’s most distinctive destinations, where you can explore vibrant and bustling Russian bazaar’s, wander at the striking Old Nisa Fortress, and get up close and personal with the majestic “winged” Akhal-Tekkes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Tashkent: Explore one of the oldest and largest cities in Central Asia

• Marvel at the striking architectural design of the Tila Shaikh mosque which according to legend, keeps the Golden hair of the prophet Muhammad in its walls. Immerse yourself in Tashkent’s history and culture with a memorable ceramics lecture followed by a delicious tea ceremony.
• A morning visit to Barak Khana Seminary and Tila Shaikh mosque, followed by a journey to Chorsu bazaar and Kukeldash Madrassah. In the afternoon, experience a ceramics workshop, a tea ceremony, and visit the Tashkent Metro. The rest of the day is at your own leisure.
• Admire the vibrant Chorsu bazaar, the oldest market in Tashkent.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Step back in time in the wonderful old town and marvel at the post-soviet architecture of Barak Khana Seminary and Tila Shaikh mosque – known for the original version of the Koran written by the third Caliph Osman. Meander through the archaic streets of Tashkent to one of the most famous historical sites in Tashkent – the Kukeldash Madrassah. Here you can marvel at the memories of Uzbekistan’s medieval past.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Hyatt 4* or similar

 

Day 2: From Tashkent to Termez

• Witness the unique destination of Kukildor-ota Hanaka, a sacred dwelling place, and pay respect to the significant Islamic figures who lay at rest here. Wonder at the romanticised Kirk-Kiz, a beautiful castle located in the countryside.
• After breakfast, take a transfer to the domestic airport for a flight to Termez. Explore Sultan Saodat, Kukildor-ota Hanaka, and Zurmala, before visiting Kirk-Kiz and Djarkurgan Minaret.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Experience an important part of history with a visit to Sultan Saodat, a family dynasty claiming descent from Prophet Muhammad. Observe the striking Zurmala – a 12m high Buddhist stupa, which was built in the Kushan era when Buddhism was the ruling religion in Central Asia. Wonder at the Djarkurgan Minaret, a unique historical monument bearing the name of the craftsman who created this, – Ali ibn Muhammad from Serahsa.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

 

Overnight at Hotel Meridian

 

Day 3: Termez: The archaeological treasure of Uzbekistan

• Strike gold at Kampyr-Tepe – one of the oldest archaeological sites in Uzbekistan, where over 35kg of gold has been excavated! The fortress of Kampyr-Tepe is also classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• In the morning, visit the Termez Archaeological Museum, before proceeding to the mausoleum of Al-Hakim al-Termizi. Then visit the archaeological sites of Fayoz-Tepa and explore Kampyr Tepe.
• Explore the remarkable collections from the Graeco-Bactrian and Kushan era at the grand Termez Archaeological Museum. Be immersed in the culture of Uzbekistan with the treasured archaeological remains on display.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Visit Termez’s holiest site, the Al Hakim At-Termizi Mausoleum. Here you can view the burial-vault of Khakim at-Termezi, the spiritual patron of the town. Explore the archaeological sites of Fayoz-Tepa and Kara-Tepa, where beautiful artwork crafted into the walls unravels history and the Buddha image variations. Discover Kampyr Tepe, an ancient citadel where some of the oldest chess pieces on earth have been excavated!
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Meridian

 

 

 

Day 4: From Termez to Baysun

• Visit the local’s houses, where you can admire the beauty and vibrancy of local lifestyles. Visit the remarkable Kyzyl Canyon, an unforgettable wonder of the world compromising of stone labyrinths, exquisite gorges, and striking cliffs.
• In the morning, visit the Baysun Village including the option to visit Omonkhona, before proceeding to the Museum of Applied Arts and the Kyzyl Canyon. The journey from Termez to Baysun will take around 1 and a half hours, covering 180km.
• Delight in observing the colourful lifestyle of locals in Baysun Village. Wonder first-hand at their uniquely decorated homes, consisting of self-sewn suzani carpets, clothes, and shoes, with a memorable visit to local houses. Admire charming masterpieces at the local Museum of Applied Arts.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Cherish your visit to the famous sacred spring of Omonkhona. Here, many people connect with nature and journey to this spring for medicinal purposes. Wonder at the exceptional closed ecosystem created by nature itself at the Kyzyl Canyon. This magnificent natural wonder has been created through hundreds of years of erosion, wind, and water. Hike to the top of Mount Buritath for breath-taking views over this stony desert.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Gaza

 

Day 5: From Baysun to Samarkand

• Embrace a memorable tour around Samarkand – an historical, vibrant city, once the cultural meeting point through which all traders and travellers passed through.
• Arrive in Samarkand and in the afternoon experience a half-day tour around Samarkand, visiting Registan Square, the Ulug-Bek Madrasah, the Tillya-Kori Madrasah, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah. The journey from Baysun to Samarkand will take around 5 hours, over 280km.
• Explore Samarkand, a crossroad of cultures. Samarkand blends together many different cultures around the world, in one city.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• On your half-day excursion of one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, experience the renowned Registan Square. For many centuries, this square was the heart of Samarkand. Here you can admire the superb azure mosaics in a vast plaza setting. Wonder at the three picturesque madrasahs: the Ulug-Bek Madrasah built in 15th century, the Tillya-Kori Madrasah built in 17th century, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah, also built in 17th century.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Dilimah or similar

Day 6: Samarkand: A cultural crossroads

• Plunge yourself in culture and tradition. From the vibrant and atmospheric Siab bazaar, outstanding wine tasting at Central Asia’s oldest winery, and a traditional evening meal at a local Uzbek home.
• Spend the morning exploring Gur Emir the mausoleum of Tamerlane, Bibi-Khanum, the Siab bazaar and Shahi Zinda necropolis. In the afternoon, visit Ulugbek’s observatory. You can also visit the oriental textile workshop of Valentina Romonenko, and the wine testing centre at the Central Asia’s oldest Hovrenko winery. Enjoy an outdoor evening dinner at a local Uzbek home.
• As an optional experience, you can admire the oriental textile workshop of Valentina Romonenko, and watch a fashion parade of traditional, hand fashioned national costumes.
• Create cherished memories at the wine testing centre at the Central Asia’s oldest Hovrenko winery. To top off this culture packed day, in the evening you will be warmly invited for outdoor dinner at a local Uzbek home.
• Admire one of the oldest and most impressive historic mosques in the Islamic world – Bibi-Khanum. This staggering mosque can hold around 10,000 worshippers. Today you can also visit one of the most mysterious and exclusive architectural monuments of Samarkand – Shahi Zinda necropolis. Consisting of 11 mausoleums, these sit in harmony showcasing stunning architectural design.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Dilimah or similar

 

Day 7: Samarkand – Gijduvan – Bukhara

• Experience life in Uzbekistan as a local, combining tradition and culture. You will observe in wonder the unique coloration and techniques of Gijduvan pottery, before enjoying a traditional lunch with a famous potter. You can also leave your mark on delightful Gijduvan, in bread making and barbeque masterclasses.
• Enjoy a morning drive to Bukhara, where en-route you will stop off at Gijduvan. You will enjoy lunch with a famous potter and take part in unique masterclasses of bread baking and shashlyk (barbeque) cooking, before continuing the drive to Bukhaea. You should arrive in Bukhara around 16:00. The journey from Samarkand to Gijduvan will take around 4 hours. The journey from Gijduvan to Bukhara will take around 1.5 hours. The total distance is 270km.
• The house of famous potter Alisher offers a cultural experience observing the processes from clay to pottery making. After this memorable encounter, enjoy a delicious lunch with potter’s family of Alisher Nazrullayev. The breadmaking and shashlyk (barbeque) cooking masterclasses offer further cultural encounters.
• When stopping over at Gijdivan, you will be welcomed by the rich and ancient history, combined with an urban atmosphere. Upon reaching Bukhara, you will enter a city that is defined as being ‘full of knowledge’.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Minzifa or similar

 

 Day 8: Bukhara: One of the most famous names of medieval Islam

• Today you will be immersed in tradition and culture. Cherish a wonderful lunch at a local Uzbek home, before being treated to a wonderful collection of handmade tapestries.
• Spend a full day exploring the magnificent Bukhara. This will include discovering the majestic Lyabi-Hauz ensemble – a central monument of ancient Bukhara, the modern center of traditional Uzbekistan, madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi, Khanaga, Mogaki Attari mosque, Poi Kalon minaret, Madrasahs Aziz Khan and Ulugbek. After lunch you will visit Ark Fortress, Balakhauz mosque, and the mausoleum of Ismail Samanid, Chashma Ayub.
• Wonder at a local suzani maker’s workshop and admire the splendid collection of colorful antique suzani (tapestries, all handmade). You will also visit Hunarmand UNDP Assisted workshops, where you can admire block printing, metal chasing, suzani embroidery, carving and miniature painting, and gold embroidery.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Uzbek home of RakhmonToshev – one of the best suzani makers of Uzbekistan. During the workshop visit, you will also taste a traditional uzbek dish – Plov.
• When exploring Bukhara, you will uncover hundreds of registered monuments. Explore the must-see destination of Lab-i-khauz ensemble, a destination with history and tranquility characterized by the beautiful pond and admire the outstanding architecture of Madrasahs Aziz Khan and Ulugbek.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

 Overnight at Hotel Minzifa or similar

 

 

Day 9: Bukhara and an out-of-town excursion to Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa

• Bukhara – known as one of the most enchanting cities in the country. Admire the beautiful architectural buildings of Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa.
• Continue your sightseeing of Bukhara with an out-of-town excursion to visit the Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa, the summer residence of the former emir of Bukhara. After this, enjoy a further excursion to Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausolem. Then enjoy an afternoon to yourself for further exploration.
• On your visit to Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa, admire the unique mixture of traditional Russian style architecture harmoniously mixed with local oriental traditions. In your afternoon at leisure, we can recommend memorable cultural experiences.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Travel to the outskirts of the city and explore the Sitora-i-Mokhikhos. Here you can marvel at the unique buildings surrounding this destination and admire the Famous thrown white hall decorated with carved alabaster. After this, discover Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausolem. Bahouddin Naqshband’s cult was highly respected among folks.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Minzifa or similar

 

 

Day 10: Bukhara – Khiva

• A beautiful scenic drive, bypassing the magnificent Kizil Kum desert and the picturesque Amudarya riverbank.
• Enjoy a morning drive to Khiva, where you will visit the famous Kizil Kum desert. You will also stop at the Amudarya riverbank, before arriving in Khiva at around 17:00. Here you can check into your hotel. The drive will take around 7-8 hours and cover 470km.
• Observe desert flora and fauna, unique saksaul trees, desert vegetation, and distinctive mammals on during your drive.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Malika Kheivak or similar 3*

 

Day 11: Khiva: A walking tour around the beautiful desert

• A city made for walking! Embrace the atmospheric Khiva basked in striking desert light, while unearthing the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud one of the town’s most magnificent spots.
• Explore the Kalta Minor minaret – a short but magnificent minaret, the Kunya Ark, the Madrasah Rakhimkhon, the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud and Islam Khodja minaret – where you can spot some of the most beautiful views of the town. In the afternoon, explore the Friday Mosque and Tashauli Palace – a luxurious palace of grandeur.
• Walking around Khiva with its compact atmosphere basked in beautiful desert light is a cultural experience in itself. Visit a UNESCO silk workshop and observe the master class of carpet weaving and to weave some pieces on your own.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• The Ichan Kala offers a window in the past, welcoming any traveller with various attractions. Uncover the Kalta Minor, a well-known visual symbol of Khiva. Discover the city-within-a-city with the Kunya Ark. Embark on Khiva’s education at the Madrasah Rakhimkhon.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Malika Kheivak or similar 3*

 

Day 12:  Khiva – Shavat border (60km / 1 hour) – Kunya-Urgench (105 km) – Dashoguz (100 km) – pm flight to Ashgabat

• Wander around the monuments of medieval Kunya-Urgench (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you can unearth Konye-Urgench’s oldest standing monument, the mausoleum of Il-Arslan.
• Cross the Uzbek/Turkmenistan border and meet the guide at Dashoguz border of Turkmenistan/Uzbekistan. Enjoy a drive to Kunya-Urgench, to admire the Turabek Hanum mausoleum, the minaret of Kutlug Timur, the mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh, Kyrk-Mollah mound, and the mausoleum of Il-Arslan. In the evening, fly to Ashgabat, before a hotel transfer.
• Kunya-Urgench is an architectural and cultural goldmine, taking you back to the magnificent middle-ages.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• Kunya-Urgench was a key trade center from the 10th-14^th Uncover one of the best living examples of the architecture of its period at the 14^th century mausoleum of Turabek Hanum, marvel at the former highest minaret of Central Asia at the minaret of Kutlug Timur, admire the beautiful 12^th century mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh, and uncover the fabled Kyrk-Mollah mound.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Grand Turkmen 4*

 

Day 13: Ashgabat: One of Central Asia’s most unique destinations

• Ashgabat is the political, cultural, and economic hub of the nation. Here you can immerse yourself in the cultural experience, getting close and personal to the ‘golden horse’ – the elegant exotic winged” Akhal-Tekkes
• Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel, before visiting Arkadash stud farm. Afterwards, stop off at an impressive complex in Kipchak, before retreating to your hotel for some rest and relaxation. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum (closed on Tuesday’s).
• Ashgabat has a rich cultural legacy which you can experience first-hand. Experience a once in a lifetime ride on the “winged” Akhal-Tekkes, where you can snap some photos for your memory box.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• A city fused with modernity and old history. Here you can visit the site of the biggest battle for the Russian domination in Central Asia at Arkadash stud farm. There is also a beautiful Geok-Depe mosque to discover. Marvel at the largest mosque in Turkmenistan at the inspiring complex in Kipchak.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Grand Turkmen 4*

 

Day 14: Ashgabat: A visit to the colourful Russian bazaar – a true cultural experience

• Match this bizarre location to a vibrant, fascination Russian bazaar – one of the oldest covered and largest markets in Turkmenistan.
• Spend the morning continuing to explore Ashgabat, admiring the Old Nisa Fortress, walking around the vibrant Russian bazaar, and admiring the collection of hand-made Turkmen carpets at the National Carpet Museum, before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure.
• Embark on an unforgettable visit to the Russian bazaar, where you will be plunged into the atmosphere that resembles the rhythm of Ashgabat life.
• Enjoy a lunch consisting of 3 types of salads, a main course of meat, chicken, or fish, a dessert of ice cream or fruits, and variety of bread, tea/water. For dinner, enjoy 3 types of salads, soup, main course of meat, chicken or fish, a dessert of either cakes or cookies, and a variety of bread, and tea/water.
• A destination encompassed with striking white marble buildings, here in Ashgabat you can wonder at the Old Nisa fortress which was once a residence of the Parthian Empire (247 BC-253 AD) and witness a stimulating collection of hand-made Turkmen carpets at the National Carpet Museum.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Hotel Grand Turkmen 4*

 

 

Day 15: Ashgabat

• Early morning transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

 

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £TBC
– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing
– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Marvel at Tila Shaikh mosque’s architecture, delve into Tashkent’s history at Chorsu bazaar and Kukeldash Madrassah, and enjoy a ceramics workshop and tea ceremony.

Day 2: Fly to Termez to visit Sultan Saodat, Kukildor-ota Hanaka, Zurmala, Kirk-Kiz, and Djarkurgan Minaret.

Day 3: Explore Termez Archaeological Museum, Al-Hakim al-Termizi Mausoleum, Fayoz-Tepa, and Kampyr Tepe.

Day 4: Discover Baysun Village, Kyzyl Canyon, and the Omonkhona spring.

Day 5: Arrive in Samarkand to explore Registan Square, Ulug-Bek Madrasah, Tillya-Kori Madrasah, and Sher-Dor Madrasah.

Day 6: Visit Gur Emir mausoleum, Bibi-Khanum mosque, Siab bazaar, Shahi Zinda necropolis, and Ulugbek’s observatory.

Day 7: Drive to Bukhara, stopping at Gijduvan for pottery and local experiences.

Day 8: Discover Lyabi-Hauz ensemble, madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi, Poi Kalon minaret, Ark Fortress, and more.

Day 9: Explore Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa and Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausolem.

Day 10: Drive to Khiva, visiting Kunya-Urgench’s historical monuments.

Day 11: Stroll around Kalta Minor minaret, Kunya Ark, and Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud.

Day 12: Cross into Turkmenistan, exploring Kunya-Urgench’s landmarks before flying to Ashgabat.

Day 13: Visit Arkadash stud farm, Geok-Depe mosque, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the National Museum.

Day 14: Experience Ashgabat’s Russian bazaar, Old Nisa Fortress, and National Carpet Museum.

Day 15: Ashgabat Departure: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

FAQs

1. What is the accommodation like on this tour?
   • You will be staying in 3-star hotels throughout the tour, offering comfortable amenities and convenient locations.
2. Is transportation included during the tour?
   • Yes, transportation is provided for all activities and transfers mentioned in the itinerary, ensuring seamless travel between destinations.
3. What meals are included in the tour package?
   • Daily breakfast is included, along with lunches and dinners featuring local cuisine at selected restaurants or with local families, offering a taste of authentic Uzbek and Turkmen flavors.
4. Are entrance fees to attractions included?
   • Yes, entrance fees to all mentioned attractions and museums are included in the tour package, allowing you to explore historical sites and cultural landmarks without additional costs.
5. What cultural experiences can I expect during the tour?
   • You’ll have the opportunity to participate in ceramics workshops, tea ceremonies, wine tastings, and visits to local markets, providing immersive insights into Uzbek and Turkmen traditions.
6. Is there free time for personal exploration during the tour?
   • Yes, the itinerary includes free afternoons and evenings in several locations, allowing you to explore independently or relax at your leisure.
7. What should I pack for the tour?
   • It’s recommended to pack comfortable clothing suitable for sightseeing, including modest attire for visiting religious sites. Sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle are also advised for your comfort during excursions.