8 Days Uzbekistan Classic Tour

Highlights of the Trip

This classic 8-day tour gives a nice introduction to the fascinating country of Uzbekistan and life in the more typical cities associated with travel around the country.

Highlights include Karst-Imam Complex, Chorsu Bazaar, Applied Arts Museum, high-speed Afrosiyob train ride, Ulugbek Observatory, Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, Samarkand paper making Konigil village, mosques, mausoleums, museums, Kalyan Minaret, Madrasahs, Kyzylkum desert country, the grand Itchan-Kala Fortress, and the highest minaret in Uzbekistan, Islam-Khoja.

During the tour you will explore the typical delights of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. you will experience the old trade routes through the Silk Road trails and see old trade domes that were at the epicentre of all trade into and through Uzbekistan and to further areas within Central Asia.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Uzbekistan

Tashkent

• Khast-Imam Complex: A historic religious complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, housing the oldest Quran in the world.
• Amir Timur Square: A central square in Tashkent, featuring a statue of the famous Central Asian conqueror and surrounded by government buildings and museums.
• Independence Square: Tashkent’s Independence Square is a symbol of Uzbekistan’s sovereignty and a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
• Applied Arts Museum: A must-visit museum in Tashkent, showcasing the beautiful traditional arts and crafts of Uzbekistan.

Samarkand

• Registan Square: A grand square in Samarkand with three impressive madrasas.
• Siab Bazaar: A bustling market selling traditional goods and produce.
• Ulugbek Observatory: An ancient observatory built by the astronomer Ulugbek.
• Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis:  A complex of mausoleums and tombs with stunning tilework.
• Gur Emir Mausoleum: The mausoleum of Timur, a powerful ruler of the Timurid Empire.
• Afrasiab Museum: A museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient city of Samarkand.
• Tomb of Saint Daniel: A revered religious site believed to hold the remains of the Biblical prophet Daniel.
• Konigil Village: A quaint village known for its traditional ceramics and handicrafts.

Bukhara

• Lyabi Hauz Ensemble: A peaceful complex with a central pool surrounded by historic buildings.
• Kalyan Minaret: A magnificent brick minaret towering over the city of Bukhara.
• Madrasah of Ulugbek: The Madrasah of Ulugbek, built in the 15th century, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
• Abdulazizkhan Madrasah: Abdulazizkhan Madrasah, with its intricate tile work and grand entrance, is a must-see for its exquisite beauty and historical significance.
• Miri-Arab Madrasah: Miri-Arab Madrasah, situated in the historic Old Town, is a functioning Islamic school and a stunning example of traditional Uzbek design and craftsmanship.
• Chasma-Ayub Mausoleums: Chasma-Ayub Mausoleums, located in the heart of the city, is a sacred site believed to have healing powers and is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace.
• Ark Fortress: A historic citadel with royal residences and a mosque.
  Sitoria Mokhi-Khosa – A summer palace with ornate interiors and beautiful gardens.
• Sitoria Mokhi-Khosa: A summer palace with ornate interiors and beautiful gardens.
• Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi: The final resting place of a prominent Sufi leader.

Khiva

• Itchan Kala Fortress: A walled city with over 50 monuments in Uzbekistan.
• Tosh-Khovli Palace: A stunning palace complex with intricately decorated rooms and courtyards.
• Minaret of Islom-Khoja: A striking minaret with blue and green glazed tiles, and the highest one in Uzbekistan.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Discover the Stunning Views at Kyzylkum Desert: Kyzylkum Desert, located in Central Asia, boasts breathtaking views, and offers a unique experience for adventurous travellers.

Witness the Traditional Making of Mulberry Paper in Konigil: Experience the ancient art of mulberry paper making in Konigil – where tradition and innovation come together to create a truly unique and beautiful craft.

Discover the beauty of Kyzylkum desert: This striking desert is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with over 350 species of plants and 160 species of animals. Despite the harsh conditions, many species have adapted to survive in this seemingly inhospitable environment.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Kyzylkum desert is its rich history and cultural significance. The Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes, passed through this region, making it a hub of cultural exchange and trade. Many remnants of this historical route can still be found in the desert, including caravanserais and ancient fortresses. For adventure seekers, there are plenty of activities to indulge in while exploring Kyzylkum desert. You can embark on a camel or horseback ride through the desert, witnessing the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Camping under the starry sky is also a popular activity, giving you the opportunity to experience the peacefulness and isolation of the desert.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Kyrgyzstan

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. Give Plov a try, a hearty rice dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and various spices; Lagman, a popular noodle dish made with hand-pulled noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and a spicy broth, often topped with meat; Samsa, a savoury pastry typically made with a flaky dough and filled with minced meat, onions, and spices; Shashlik, also known as kebab, consisting of skewered and grilled meat, served with vegetables and bread, and Manti, a type of dumpling filled with minced meat and onions, and usually served with sour cream or spicy tomato sauce.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Kayaking on the Zeravshan River: The Zeravshan River, which flows through the ancient city of Samarkand, is a popular spot for kayaking. This activity allows you to explore the city from a different perspective, paddling along the river and taking in the stunning architecture and monuments that line its banks. The calm waters of the river make it suitable for all levels of kayakers, from beginners to experts.

Diving in the Tashkent Sea: Located in the outskirts of Tashkent, the Tashkent Sea is a popular spot for diving. The crystal-clear waters of the lake offer excellent visibility, making it ideal for exploring the diverse marine life and underwater landscapes. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, there are diving centers that offer training and equipment rental for a memorable underwater experience.

Accommodation of this Tour

Tashkent: Hotel in Tashkent

Samarkand: Hotel in Samarkand

Bukhara: Hotel in Bukhara

Khiva: Hotel in Khiva

Itinerary

Day 1: Tashkent Arrival & City Tour

Arrival in Tashkent with transfer to hotel at noon. The rest of the day will be a city tour including the old city’s Khast-Imam Complex, where a famous Quran has been preserved, and explore Chorsu Bazaar. Take a metro to the new city centre to walk through Amir Timur Square, Independence Square, and Applied Arts Museum.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

Day 2: Afrosiyob Transfer to Samarkand & City Tour

A morning transfer to the railway station to board the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Samarkand. A guided tour guide will meet you at the train station for a city tour including Registan Square, Siab Bazaar, Ugulbek Observatory, remains of Bibi-Khanum Mosque, Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, and Gur-Emir Mausoleum, a Turco-Mongol emperor.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

Day 3: Samarkand City Tour & Konigil Paper Making Village

Further exploration of Samarkand will take you to Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel. Then you’ll witness the traditional methods used to make Samarkand paper from mulberry in Konigil Village. The rest of the day you’ll have a driver and car at your disposal to explore as you please.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4: Bukhara Transfer Via Rabat-i-Malik & Bukhara City Tour

In the morning drive to Bukhara, stop at Rabat-i-Malik on the way. On arrival check into hotel. The afternoon will be spent exploring Kalyan Minaret, mosques, trade domes, and the Madrasah of Ugulbek, Abdulazizkhan, and Miri-Arab. Free evening to explore in your own way.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5:  Deeper Bukhara City Tour

Further exploration of sites in Bukhara start with Ark Fortress, Samani dynasty and Chashma-Ayub mausoleums. Then a visit to Sitoria Mokhi-Khasa, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last ruling Emir, uniquely combining Oriental and Russian architecture. Free time for the remainder of the afternoon and evening.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 6: Khiva Transfer Via Kyzylkum Desert

A morning departure for the drive to Khiva, through Kyzylkum desert country. Caravans would use this Silk Road route to carry spices and porcelain wear to neighbouring areas and countries for trade. Late afternoon arrival and check in to hotel with free evening to enjoy.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: Khiva City Tour & Tashkent Flight

Check out of the hotel before noon. Today you’ll visit the grand Itchan-Kala Fortress and the surrounding grounds. There will also be more mosques, masharah’s, and Islam-Khoja Minaret, the highest one in Uzbekistan. Free afternoon for last moments to appreciate Khiva before your drive to Urgench airport to Tashkent for overnight stay.

Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 8: Departure Flight

Free morning then check out before noon and afternoon flight back home.

✓ Breakfast

INCLUSIONS:

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £1,574
– 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.