Treasures of the Silk Road: 17-Day Tour of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan

This 17-day tour of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan is designed to showcase the remnants of the Great Silk Road and give travellers an understanding of the history and modern life of Central Asian countries.

Highlights of the trip

You will be amazed by the majestic mountains and spectacular nature of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, with their dense coniferous forests, wide valleys, and powerful rivers, along with the unique mountain lakes with crystal clear water, magical glaciers, herds of horses, sheep, and yaks, and the awe-inspiring canyons. Expect to be charmed by Uzbekistan, one of the oldest countries in the world, with its vibrant culture, warmth, and mysteriousness. This tour is perfectly suited for those looking for ancient Silk Road sites, thrilling mountaineering opportunities, and delicious cuisine.

Endless sightseeing and immersive highlights await you on this tour, with a fusion of comprehensive city tours, mountain exploration, and traditional culture. If you are seeking an in-depth tour, with authentic opportunities to engage and participate in local culture and learn vast amounts about the history and architecture of this stunning part of the world, this is the ultimate journey on which to do so.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Tajikistan

Dushanbe

• Ismoili Somoni: The grand statue of Ismoili Somoni stands tall, commemorating the founder of the Samanid Empire.
• Rudaki Park: A serene retreat, Rudaiki Park offers green spaces, walking paths, and sculptures, creating a peaceful urban oasis.
• The Highest Flagstaff in the World: Highest Flagstaff in the World: A symbol of national pride and identity.
• The Tajikistan State Museum: A showcase of the country’s rich history and culture.
• Mehrgon Bazaar: A bustling marketplace for traditional goods and local delicacies.
• Victory Park: A tribute to the country’s triumphs and struggles.
• Hissor Town Excursion: Journey through Hissor Town, uncovering its ancient charm, historic landmarks, and the renowned fortress.
• The Ancient Fortress of Hissor: Step back in time at the Ancient Fortress of Hissor, an archaeological site showcasing ancient walls, towers, and a museum.
• Iskanderkul Lake: Nestled in the Fann Mountains, this lake captivates with its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountainous surroundings.

Penjikent

• Varzob Valley and Gorge: A picturesque gorge boasting lush landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.
• Penjikent Excavations and Museum of Archaeology: From ancient artifacts to intricate artworks, the Penjikent Excavations and Museum of Archaeology offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• The Rudaki Museum: The Rudaki Museum houses a vast collection of relics, including pottery, coins, and weapons, that provide insight into the daily life and customs of the Sogdian people.
• Old Penjikent Archaeological Site: At the Old Penjikent Archaeological Site, visitors can witness the remains of a once-thriving city, including the remnants of fortresses, palaces, and residential buildings.

Uzbekistan

Bukhara

• Poi Kalon Minaret and Mosque: The minaret stands as a magnificent symbol of Islamic artistry and the mosque serves as a spiritual haven, both contributing to the UNESCO-listed historic centre and offering a captivating journey through Central Asian history and culture.
• Mogaki Attari Mosque: Stands as a testament to the city’s Islamic heritage, featuring intricate tilework and architectural details, and serving both as a place of worship and a cultural landmark.
• Mir-Arab Madrasah: A stunning example of Islamic architecture and education.
• Art Fortress: An ancient citadel that has witnessed centuries of history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses a complex of palaces, mosques, and administrative buildings, offering a glimpse into the political and cultural life of Bukhara.
• Samanids Mausoleum: An architectural masterpiece from the 9th century.
• Chor Minor Madrasahs: Four minarets representing the four schools of Islam.
• Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble: A charming architectural ensemble, centred around a picturesque pond, embodying the city’s social and cultural heart. Surrounded by historical structures, the ensemble invites visitors to enjoy the tranquil ambiance, explore traditional tea houses, and witness the enduring legacy of Bukhara’s vibrant public spaces.
• Chashma Ayub: A revered site believed to the “Job’s Well”, associated with the biblical figure. The complex includes a mausoleum and a sacred spring, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike.
• Bolo Mosque: A tranquil place of worship with intricate designs.
• Nugai Caravanserai: A historic rest stop for travellers along the Silk Road.
• Akhmadjon Caravanserai: A well-preserved caravanserai with traditional design elements.

Shakhrisabz

• Koba Caravanserai: A popular stop for tourists looking to experience the Silk Road.

Samarkand

• Ancient Settlement of Afrosiab: Unveiling layers of history dating back over two millennia. Once a thriving city on Silk Road, its archaeological remains include fragments of walls, pottery, and murals, providing a tangible connection to Samarkand’s past.
• Registan Square: A stunning ensemble of three madrasahs surrounding a central square, creating an architectural masterpiece that defines the heart of the city.
• Ulug-Bek Madrasah: A testament to the intellectual legacy of its founder, the astronomer-king Ulugbek. A blend of scientific precision and artistic elegance.
• Tillya-Kori Madrasah: An architectural gem adorned with intricate goldwork; this 17^th century madrasah combines religious education with artistic splendour.
• Sher-Dor Madrasah: Built in the 17^th century, its striking façade features roaring tigers, a unique departure from traditional Islamic art.
• Gur Emir: The final resting place of the famous conqueror, Tamerlane.
• Ulugbek’s Observatory: A historic site paying homage to the scientific legacy of the 15^th century astronomer-king Ulugbek.
• Shahi Zinda Necropolis: A breathtaking ensemble of mausoleums and tombs, reflecting the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Dating back to the 9^th to 14^th centuries, the complex is steeped in history and legend, housing the tombs of royal family members.
• Silk Road Bazaar: Echoing the historical trade routes that connected East and West, this is a vibrant marketplace where the spirit of ancient commerce lives on, offering an array of goods, crafts, and local products.

Tashkent

• Kulkeldash Madrassah: A striking Islamic educational institution dating back to the 19^th
• Khast-Imam Square: A cultural and religious hub in the heart of Tashkent.
• Barak Khana Seminary: Stands as a cultural and educational treasure, dating back to the 16^th century and embodying the historic significance of Islamic scholarship in the region.
• Tila Sheikh Mosque: A revered religious site known for its architectural elegance and spiritual significance with turquoise domes and intricate tilework.
• Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum: A sacred site for Muslims and a prime example of Timurid architecture.
• The Chorsu Bazaar (Oldest Market in Tashkent): A bustling market that pulses with vibrant energy and a kaleidoscope of colours.

Kyrgyzstan

Fergana Valley

• Rishtan: A centre for pottery-making and a colorful display of traditional crafts.

Osh

• Osh Bazaar: A lively market where locals and tourists alike can find a variety of goods.
• Osh Historical Museum: A treasure trove of artifacts showcasing the city’s ancient history.

Bishkek

• Duboviy Park (Oak Park): Enjoy the tranquillity of this park, known for its oak trees and walking paths, providing a peaceful retreat.
• Central Ala-Too Square: The central hub of Bishkek, adorned with fountains and monuments, hosting events and celebrations.
• Pobeda Square (Victory Square): The heart of Bishkek, showcasing monuments and open spaces, offering a vibrant gathering point for locals and visitors.
• The National Arts Museum: Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz art and culture at this museum, home to a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
• Chon Kemin Gorge: An idyllic landscape perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Burana Tower: Burana Tower: Discover the historic Burana Tower, a minaret from the ancient city of Balasagun, surrounded by archaeological ruins and a captivating open-air museum.
• Boom Gorge: A popular spot for rafting and adventurous activities.
• Issyk-Kul Lake: Relax by the shores of one of the world’s largest alpine lakes, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for water activities.

Cholpon-Ata

• Ptroglyphs (Stone Garden): A historical site featuring ancient rock carvings.
• Cholpon-Ata Museum of History: A comprehensive look into the region’s past and present.

Karakol

• Prjevalsk Museum: A tribute to the renowned explorer and naturalist, Nikolay Przhevalsky.
• Dungan Mosque: An architectural wonder built without the use of any nails.
• Jeti-Oguz Gorge: A picturesque destination with unique rock formations and hiking trails.

Bishkek

• Traditional Folklore Show: An entertaining display of traditional music, dance, and costumes.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Enjoy City Tours and Visits to Temples, Mausoleums, Madrasahs and Museums: Explore ancient temples, mausoleums, and museums in the city.

Attend a Folklore Show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah and Meet a Puppet Master: Attend a lively folklore show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah and meet a skilled puppet master.

Try Your Hand at Making Lepyoshka with a Local Baker: Roll up your sleeves and learn how to make traditional bread, lepyoshka, with a friendly local baker.

Visit the Handmade Knives Workshop of Zakir Aka: Visit Zakir Aka’s handmade knives workshop and witness his craftsmanship.

Listen to the Manaschi Recite Traditional Song in the Chon Kemin Valley: Immerse yourself in traditional music and storytelling as a Manaschi recites in the Chon Kemin Valley.

Participate in the Lagman Cooking Process with Uighur or Dungan Families:  Join Uighur or Dungan families in the process of making lagman, a delicious noodle dish.

Stay in a Traditional Yurt Camp:  Experience the nomadic lifestyle by staying in a traditional yurt camp.

Enjoy Horse-back Riding: Gallop through the beautiful countryside on horseback.

Learn How to Bake the Famous Kyrgyz Bread, Boorsok: Discover the secrets of making boorsok, a famous Kyrgyz bread, first-hand.

Learn First-Hand about Traditional Falconry and Enjoy a Folklore Show in Bishkek: Learn about the ancient art of falconry and enjoy a folklore show in Bishkek.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in the Stan Countries

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary.

In Tajikistan, try “osh” (plov), a flavourful rice dish with meat and vegetables. In Uzbekistan, savour “plov” as well, along with “manti” (dumplings), and “shashlik” (grilled skewered meat). In Kyrgyzstan, don’t miss “beshbarmak” (boiled meat with pasta) and “lagman” (noodle soup). These dishes showcase the diverse and delicious Central Asian cuisine.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Rafting and Water Activities at Boom Gorge:  Get your adrenaline pumping with rafting and water activities at Boom Gorge.

Water Sports on Issyk Kul Lake: Cool off with water sports on the pristine Issyk Kul Lake.

Boat Tours and Swimming on Issyk Kul’s Northern Shore: Relax and take in the stunning views as you go on a boat tour and swim on Issyk Kul’s northern shore.

Accommodation of this Tour

Dushanbe: Hotel Atlas 4* or similar

Penjikent: Hotel Umarien 3* or similar

Bukhara: Hotel Malika 4* or similar

Samarkand: Hotel Registon 3/4* or similar

Tashkent: Hotel City Palace 4* or similar

Rishtan: Hotel Asia 3* or similar

Osh: Hotel Sunrise Osh 3* or similar

Bishkek: Hotel Garden 4* or similar

Chon-Kemin: GH Kemin or Ashtuu or similar

Karakol: Hotel Green Yard 3* or similar

Ala-Tau Mountain Ranges: Yurt camp

Bishkek: Hotel Garden 4* or similar

Itinerary

Day 1: Dushanbe Arrival & City Tour

Upon arrival at Dushanbe Airport and completion of all necessary procedures, such as border control, customs, and luggage, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, there will be a meeting in the lobby for a city tour. Dushanbe, which gets its name from the Persian word for Monday, was once a small market village where traders would come to sell their goods on Mondays. During the Soviet era, the city grew to become the most important centre of production in Tajikistan, but the Shohmansur Covered Market still reflects Dushanbe’s historical connections with local trade. During the tour, you will visit the Monument of Ismoili Somoni, Rudaki Park, the Highest Flagstaff in the world (certified by the Guinness Committee) in the city centre, the Tajikistan State Museum, Mehrgon Bazaar, and Victory Park, where you can get a view of Dushanbe from the East Hills.

Accommodation: Hotel Atlas 4* (or similar)

✓ Dinner

Day 2: Hissar Fortress, Tajikistan Antique Museum & Tajik Local Life Insights

We will begin the morning meeting with a group for an excursion to the Hissar Fortress, located 27 km west of Dushanbe. This Fortress was home to the palace of Ibragimbek Khan, a member of the Bukhara Emirate. The thick walls of the fortress used to protect a pool, garden, and palace, while the market and caravanserai were located outside. Today, only a portion of the wall and gate towers remain, representing 18th and 19th century styles. After returning to Dushanbe, we will have lunch and visit the Tajikistan Antique Museum. This museum is home to natural history exhibits, Tajik costumes, and a mock-up of a Tajik house. The main highlight is the biggest statue of a “Relaxing Buddha”, while the ethnographic part of the museum showcases traditional Tajik crafts such as ceramics, embroidered fabrics, woodcarving, and jewellery.

Accommodation: Hotel Atlas 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 3: Penjikent Transfer Via, Varzob Valley, Museum of Archaeology, Old Penjikent & Rudaki Museum

Start your journey with a drive through the picturesque Varzob Valley and Anzob Pass-Tunnel to Lake Iskander Kul (Alexander Great Lake), the heart of the Fan Mountains. Here you can visit a 50m high waterfall, located two kilometers north of the lake, and Snake Lake. Continue to Penjikent, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a history of 5500 years. Ancient Penjikent was one of the easternmost settlements of the Sogdiana Empire, an Iranian civilization that ruled Central Asia for over a thousand years and held Zoroastrianism as its predominant religion. Translated from Russian, the city’s name means ‘Five Villages’. Visit the Penjikent excavations and Museum of Archaeology in Old-Penjikent, the 5th century ‘Pompeii’ of Central Asia, to see the former palaces and necropolises that survived for 300 years until the Arabs burned it down during their 8th century invasion. The Rudaki Museum in the city centre is filled with artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Sogdian era, as well as natural history exhibits from the region. It also includes an exhibit on the life and works of Samanid court poet Abdullah Mohammed Rudaki, who was born in Penjikent. Don’t miss out on the frescoes from the Old Penjikent archaeological site, a highlight of the museum.

Accommodation: Hotel Umarien 3* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 4: Tajik/Uzbek Border Crossing, Bukhara & Bukhara City Tour

We will begin our journey today at 07:30am, heading towards the Tajik/Uzbek border at Jartepa. From there, we will continue to Bukhara, one of the greatest trading centers of the Silk Road. Though humans have inhabited the area around Bukhara for at least five millennia, the city itself has existed for half of that time. Throughout its long history, Bukhara has served as a hub of trade, culture, scholarship, and religion. With its many mosques, madrasahs, and minarets, it is known as an open-air museum. Bukhara has also seen many rulers come and go throughout its 2500-year history, from the invading Arab armies to the present day. During our city tour, we will visit the architectural complex Poi Kalon, with the Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir-Arab Madrasah, as well as Toki Zargaron trade-domes and Magoki Attori Mosque.

Accommodation: Hotel Malika 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 5: Deeper Bukhara City Tour & Puppet Show

In the morning we explore an oriental bazaar, full of vibrant colours and exotic aromas. We continue our journey through Bukhara, taking in the stunning architectural ensembles of mosques and madrasahs, such as the Ark Citadel, the Samanids Mausoleum, Chor Minor Madrasahs, Lyabi Khauz Square, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo Mosque, Nugai Caravanserai, and Akhmadjon Caravanserai. We also attend a folklore show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah and meet a puppet master, who puts on a short performance and explains the intricate craftsmanship of his creations.

Accommodation: Hotel Malika 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 6: Silk Road Journey Via Shakhrisabz, Koba Caravanserai & Samarkand Transfer

We are taking a journey along the Silk Road, one of the oldest trade routes in the world. Our first stop is Shakhrisabz, the ancient city of Central Asia which dates back over 2700 years. Being the hometown of Tamerlane, it is no surprise that everywhere in the city is associated with his name. During the city tour, we will be visiting Koba Caravanserai. Afterwards, we will be taking a transfer to Samarkand.

Accommodation: Hotel Registon 3/4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 7: Samarkand City Tour

Founded in the 7th century B.C. as ancient Afrosiab, Samarkand is a historic town and a crossroad and melting pot of the world’s cultures. It received its most significant development in the Timurid period from the 14th to the 15th centuries. During your visit, explore the fabled city of Samarkand, one of the most important sites of the Silk Road. Registan Square will be a highlight, having been the heart of the city for centuries. You will also see three of its beautiful madrasahs – the Ulug-Bek Madrasah built in the 15th century, the Tillya-Kori Madrasah built in the 17th century, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah, also built in the 17th century. Finally, visit Gur Emir – the mausoleum of the Great Tamerlane and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture of the Medieval East. Dinner will be served in a national house.

Accommodation: Hotel Registon 3/4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 8: Ulugbek Observatory, Shohi-Zinda Necropolis & Tashkent Transfer

Today, you will visit two of Samarkand’s most renowned attractions: the Ulugbek Observatory, a historical monument and one of the most esteemed observatories of the Middle Ages; and Shohi-Zinda Necropolis, an ancient architectural ensemble located on the southeastern slope of Afrosiab Mountain. Dating back to the 11th, 14th, and 19th centuries, the complex features several mausoleums and religious buildings, as well as a Silk paper manufacture, which was used to craft many Arabic manuscripts. Following the sightseeing tour, we will continue to Tashkent.

Accommodation: Hotel City Palace 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 9: Tashkent City Tour

Take a tour of Tashkent, the modern yet oriental capital of Uzbekistan. From ancient squares to modern buildings, explore the city’s 2,000-year-old history. On your visit, you’ll start at the Kukeldash Madrasah, still functioning as a school for the Koran. Then, explore the Khast-Imam Square and admire the Barak Khan adrasah, the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, with its unique brickwork. Before you leave, take a look at the Koran written by the third Caliph Osman (644 – 656).

Accommodation: Hotel City Palace 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 10: Fergana Valley, Tajikistan/Kyrgyzstan Border Crossing, Rishtan Ceramics Centre & Rishtan Tour

This morning we drive to Fergana Valley, the most fertile part of Central Asia. It is surrounded by the Tien Shan Mountain Range and watered by tributaries of the Syr Darya River. This area has an illustrious history, with Alexander the Great founding a city here in the southwestern mouth of the valley in 329 BC and traders from China coming this way as they created the Silk Road in the 1st century BC. The whole valley became a rich oasis, with irrigated fields producing grains, fruits, silk, cotton, nuts, and vegetables, and supporting horses, cattle, sheep, and camels. Buddhism made its way here from China before the advent of Islam in the 8th century AD, and it was later ruled by the Kokand Khanate in the 18th and 19th centuries, before being taken by Imperial Russia at the end of the 19th century. During the 20th century, the Soviet Union dedicated the valley to the cotton monoculture, sapping its fertility and its water, and derailing its agricultural diversity. Visit Rishtan – centre of unique ceramic production in Uzbekistan – for a glimpse of its world-renowned ceramics. Tucked inside the Fergana Valley between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Rishtan is perhaps the region’s oldest and most celebrated ceramics centre. The city itself is a sight to behold, with melons growing wild in the fields and pomegranate and apple trees sprouting up along the streets, and canopies of grapes shading the sidewalks. There is evidence of earthenware in the foothills of the Alai Range dating back one thousand years. Rishtan ceramics are well-known for their intricate floral and geometric designs in bright blue and green hues painted on a creamy white background. This region has become renowned for pottery thanks to the copious amounts of high-quality raw materials available, such as red clay and pigments made from minerals and mountain grasses. The techniques used to make the ceramics have been passed down from father to son for many generations.

Accommodation: Hotel Asia 3* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 11: Osh Transfer & Osh City Tour

Osh is believed to be over 3000 years old, making it the oldest city in Kyrgyzstan and the second largest in the country. At a crossroad of the famous Silk Road, the age of the city can be seen in the rock drawings and inscriptions found on the northern slope of the four-headed Suleiman Mountain, also known as Salomon’s Throne. This unique historical and architectural monument is situated in the centre of Osh and is still a popular place for local Muslims, with stairs leading up to the highest peak with a small mosque built in 1510. The mountain is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. During our visit to Osh, we’ll take an excursion to the bright Osh Bazaar and Historical Museum and get hands on with a local baker to learn how lepyoshka is made. We’ll also visit the workshop of Zakir Aka, who has been making handmade knives for almost 60 years. These handmade knives make great gifts for friends or family members who love to cook.

Accommodation: Hotel Sunrise Osh 3* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 12: Flight to Bishkek & sightseeing city tour

Take a morning flight to Bishkek, the capital and largest city in Kyrgyzstan. Nestled at the foothill of the majestic Kyrgyz Ala-Tau mountain range, Bishkek is a city of many parks, marble-faced public buildings, Soviet-style apartment blocks, and thousands of smaller private houses, all laid out in a grid pattern with narrow irrigation channels that water the countless trees that provide shade in the summer. It’s said to be the greenest city in Central Asia, having more trees per head of population than anywhere else. Our sightseeing tour will include the Ala-Too Square – the main square of the country which hosts state events and celebrations – monuments, an open-air picture gallery, famous Oak Park, marble government buildings, and theatres.

Accommodation: Hotel Garden 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 13: Chon-Kemin Gorge & Burana Tower

On the way to Chon-Kemin Gorge, we make a stop at the Karakhanid’s minaret of the 12th century, Burana Tower. Nowadays, it is a museum complex containing the tower itself, reconstructions of mausoleums found on the site, remnants of a citadel, a collection of balbals (gravestones used by nomadic Turkic peoples), petroglyphs (stone carvings), and a small museum. Chon Kemin is an idyllic valley with several small villages and farmers’ lands, surrounded by majestic mountains and fir forests. It is a perfect place to relax and observe time pass by with a pot of tea. As the evening approaches, we will be accompanied by a Manaschi song. The epic poem Manas is significant to Kyrgyz traditional culture, representing character, psychology, and spirit. It is recited by specialists known as Manaschi, who are held in high esteem in Kyrgyz culture.

Accommodation: GH Kemin or Ashuu (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 14: Boom Gorge, Issyk-Kul Lake, Cholpon-Ata, Karakol Transfer & Uighur Family Dinner

We travel through Boom Gorge and along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to reach Cholpon-Ata town. The lake is surrounded by snowcapped peaks of the Terskei and Kungei Ala-Tau mountain ranges and is situated at an altitude of 1600 m. It is 180 km long, 60 km wide, and 700 m deep. 134 streams and rivers flow into the lake but none flow out, which is due to underwater tectonic activity. In Cholpon-Ata, we visit the petroglyphs, also known as the Stone Garden. It covers 42 hectares and contains prehistoric monumental structures, such as stone circles, tombs, the remains of a boundary stone wall, and balbals, as well as petroglyphs dating from the 2nd millennium BC to the 6th century AD. There are plaques with descriptions and dates of the stones. We take a 20–30-minute walk on the shortest route, or explore the upper side of the museum, including a collection of stone balbals, stone inscriptions, stone circles, and a stunning view of the Cholpon-Ata bay of Issyk-Kul Lake. We also visit the Cholpon-Ata Museum of History, which has a wide collection of national embroidery. We proceed to Karakol, admiring the lake and mountains along the way. Karakol has an old Russian style, with many buildings from Tsar time, and was formerly known as Prjevalsk, in honor of the famous Russian explorer of Asia, Nikolai Prjevalski. His grave is located on the shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. We visit Prjevalsk Museum, followed by dinner with Uighur or Dungan families to sample traditional cuisine and lagman-show, watch and participate in the Lagman cooking process.

Accommodation: Hotel Green Yard 3* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 15: Karakol Town, Karakol City Tour, Russian Style Houses, Issyk-Kul Lake, Ala-Tua Mountain Ranges & Yurt Camp

A visit to Karakol town will take you back in time to Tsarist Russia. Our two-hour city tour includes a look at old Russian style houses (1870-1910), the Russian Orthodox Church (1886) and the Dungan Mosque (1899), built without nails out of wood. We then transfer to Jeti-Oguz gorge, where you can take in the stunning red sandstone rock formations and the local pastures used by shepherds to graze their flocks of sheep and herds of horses. We continue along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, situated in a hollow surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Terskei and Kungei Ala-Tau Mountain ranges at an altitude of 1600m. This lake is 180km in length, 60km wide and 700m deep, with 134 streams and rivers flowing into it but not out, due to underwater tectonic activity. We stay in a yurt camp today, with optional horseback riding available (paid directly). Later, we take classes in the famous Kyrgyz bread baking – Boorsok.

Accommodation: Yurt Camp (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 16: Falconry Farm, Bishkek Transfer & Folklore Show

In the morning, we will show you a traditional form of falconry found throughout Central Asia – hunting with eagles. This plays a key role in the nomadic lifestyle and is used not only for competitions and shows, but in everyday life for local people. After this, we will continue to Bishkek for a folklore show in the evening during dinner. Artists will showcase traditional musical instruments and techniques of playing.

Accommodation: Hotel Garden 4* (or similar)

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner

Day 17: Departure Flight

If you have pre-arranged a driver, make sure to check out of your hotel and meet them in the lobby to be transferred to the airport in time for your departure flight. Please note that standard hotel check-out times apply.

✓ Breakfast

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £3483
– 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: Explore Dushanbe’s historical connections at monuments like the Ismoili Somoni Monument and Victory Park.

Day 2: Visit the Hissar Fortress and Tajikistan Antique Museum for insights into local history and culture.

Day 3: Journey to Penjikent via Varzob Valley, exploring ancient ruins and museums along the way.

Day 4: Travel to Bukhara, a Silk Road hub, and discover its rich architectural heritage on a city tour.

Day 5: Delve deeper into Bukhara’s history and culture, ending the day with a folklore puppet show.

Day 6: Explore Shakhrisabz en route to Samarkand, visiting historical sites along the legendary Silk Road.

Day 7: Discover the wonders of Samarkand, including Registan Square and Gur Emir Mausoleum.

Day 8: Visit historical landmarks in Samarkand before transferring to Tashkent.

Day 9: Explore Tashkent’s rich history and vibrant culture, visiting landmarks like Kukeldash Madrasah and Khast-Imam Square.

Day 10: Journey to Fergana Valley and immerse yourself in Uzbekistan’s ceramic traditions in Rishtan.

Day 11: Explore Osh’s ancient heritage, including Suleiman Mountain and local markets.

Day 12: Fly to Bishkek, where a city tour awaits, showcasing its parks, monuments, and Soviet-era architecture.

Day 13: Visit the historic Burana Tower en route to Chon-Kemin Gorge for relaxation and cultural experiences.

Day 14: Discover the petroglyphs of Cholpon-Ata before transferring to Karakol for more cultural immersion.

Day 15: Explore Karakol’s Russian heritage before settling into a yurt camp for a traditional Kyrgyz experience.

Day 16: Witness traditional falconry and enjoy a folklore show in Bishkek.

Day 17: Check out and transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your journey through Central Asia.

FAQs

1. What are the main highlights of the tour?
   • The tour highlights include exploring historic cities like Dushanbe, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Bishkek, visiting ancient fortresses, museums, and archaeological sites, experiencing local culture and cuisine, and enjoying scenic landscapes along the Silk Road.
2. How do I book this tour?
   • You can book the tour through our website or by contacting our tour operator directly. Simply choose your desired departure date and follow the booking instructions provided.
3. What is the accommodation like during the tour?
   • Accommodation varies but generally includes comfortable hotels and guesthouses with modern amenities, offering a blend of local charm and convenience.
4. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, most meals are included in the tour package, typically breakfast and dinner. Some lunches may also be provided or arranged during excursions.
5. What is the transportation like between destinations?
   • Transportation between destinations is typically provided by air-conditioned vehicles or minibuses, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the journey.
6. What should I pack for this tour?
   • We recommend packing comfortable clothing suitable for sightseeing and walking, as well as any personal items you may need. Additionally, consider packing sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes.
7. Is it safe to travel to the countries included in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan?
   • Yes, the safety and well-being of our travellers are our top priorities. The countries included in the tour have stable political environments, and we closely monitor any travel advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.