Uzbekistan – Kyrgyzstan Explorer Tour

Highlights of the Trip

This tour of Uzbekistan through to Kyrgyzstan explores the more traditional sites and gives a great insight life into the two countries by travelling through cities such as Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Fergana, Bishkek and the Issyk-kul region.

Highlights include Karst-Imam Complex in the old city, the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari, Chorsu Bazaar, the Itchan kala Fortress, Tosh-Khovli Palace, Kyzylkum desert, Amudarya River, the dazzling Ark Fortress, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir, the 11th century Caravanserai Rabat Malik, Siab Bazaar, Shah-Zinda Necropolis, Registan Square, Tomb of Saint Daniel, the high speed Afrosiab train, Madrasah’s, Mausoleums, Museums, Minarets, trade domes, Fergana Valley, Yodgorlik Silk Factory to see the process of making silks, Suleyman Too (King Solomon’s old mountain), Ash Bazaar, Ala-Archa National Park, Philharmonic Hall, Issyk-Kul Lake, Grigoriezskoe Gorge, and see the rock carving Petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata.

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.
• Barak-Khan Madrasah: An ancient Islamic educational institution in Tashkent, featuring intricate tilework and a beautiful courtyard.
• Tillya Sheykh Mosque: A stunning mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, known for its golden dome and grand interior.
• Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum:  A sacred site in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, dedicated to a Sufi saint and renowned for its intricate blue tilework.
• Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari: A prestigious institute in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, dedicated to the study of Islamic theology and law.
• Chorsu Bazaar: A bustling and colourful market in Tashkent, offering a wide variety of goods, from traditional spices to handmade crafts.
• Applied Arts Museum: A must-visit museum in Tashkent, showcasing the beautiful traditional arts and crafts of Uzbekistan.
• Navoi Theatre: A grand theater in Tashkent, known for its impressive architecture and hosting various cultural performances.
• Amir Timur Square: A central square in Tashkent, featuring a statue of the famous Central Asian conqueror and surrounded by government buildings and museums.

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.

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.
• 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.
• Caravanserai Rabat Malik: A well-preserved caravanserai, or inn, along the Silk Road.

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.

Kokand

• Khudoyar-Khan Palace: A stunning 19th century palace with intricate architectural details.
• Jami Mosque: A grand mosque with vibrant blue and green tile work.
• Norbut-biy Madrasah: A historic religious school with traditional Uzbek design.
• Kamol-Kazy Madrasah: A beautifully decorated madrasah with a peaceful courtyard.

Fergana City

• Akhmad Al-Fergana Park: A picturesque park with colorful flowers and a peaceful atmosphere.

Margilan

• Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah: A well-preserved madrasah with stunning blue domes.
• Yodgorlik Silk Factory: A traditional silk factory showcasing the process of silk-making.
• Kumtepa Bazaar: A bustling market filled with traditional handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce.
• Rishtan: A famous pottery village known for its vibrant and intricate ceramics.

Kyrgyzstan

Osh

• Suleyman Too: A holy mountain in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, known for its cultural and historical significance.
• National Museum of History and Archaeology: A must-visit museum in Bishkek, showcasing the country’s rich history and archaeological findings.
• Osh Bazaar: A bustling market in Osh, offering a wide variety of goods and local products.

Bishkek

• Ala-Archa National Park: A picturesque national park near Bishkek, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Oak Park: A peaceful park in Bishkek, known for its beautiful and diverse collection of oak trees.
• Ala-Too Square: The main square in Bishkek, often used for cultural events and celebrations.
• Statue of Minas: A prominent statue in Bishkek, honouring Manas, a legendary hero in Kyrgyz folklore.
• Philharmonic Hall: A stunning concert hall in Bishkek, home to various orchestras and musical performances.
• Issyk-Kul Lake: The second largest alpine lake in the world, offering breathtaking views and recreational activities.
• Burana Tower and Balasagun Ancient City: A historic site near Bishkek, featuring a 9th-century minaret and ruins of an ancient city.
• Grigorievskoe Gorge: A popular destination near Bishkek, known for its scenic views and hiking trails.
• Cholpon-Ata: A beach town on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
• Ethnographical Museum: A fascinating museum in Bishkek, showcasing the traditional culture and lifestyle of Kyrgyz people.

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.

Traditional Silk Making at Yodgorlik Silk Factory: Silk has been a prized fabric for centuries, known for its luxurious feel and shimmering appearance. And at the heart of traditional silk production lies the Yodgorlik Silk Factory in the city of Margilan, Uzbekistan. This factory has been producing high-quality silk using traditional methods for over 40 years, keeping the ancient craft alive.

Immerse Yourself in Local Life at Kumtepa Bazaar in Fergana Valley: Kumtepa Bazaar in Fergana Valley offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and local life of Uzbekistan.

Hike the Trails Through Ala-Archa National Park: Ala-Archa National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Kyrgyzstan, offering visitors a unique opportunity to hike through stunning landscapes and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the country. With its diverse terrain, majestic peaks, and rich flora and fauna, exploring the trails of Ala-Archa is an experience like no other.

Explore the Petroglyphs and Rock Carvings at Cholpon-Ata: Discover ancient history and cultural significance by exploring the captivating Petroglyphs and Rock Carvings at Cholpon-Ata.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Uzbekistan and 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

Rafting and Kayaking on Ala-Archa River: For the thrill-seekers, rafting and kayaking on Ala-Archa River is a must-try activity. The river has several rapids and stretches that offer an exciting and adrenaline-pumping experience. There are many tour operators that offer guided rafting and kayaking tours, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. You can also rent equipment and explore the river at your own pace.

Kayaking and Canoeing on Issyk-Kul Lake: For those looking for an adventurous water activity, kayaking and canoeing are popular options on Issyk-Kul Lake. With its calm and tranquil waters, the lake provides the perfect setting for a peaceful paddle. You can rent a kayak or a canoe from one of the many rental shops around the lake and explore its shores at your own pace. This is also a great way to get a closer look at the diverse flora and fauna of the lake.

Accommodation of this Tour

Tashkent: Hotel in Tashkent

Khiva: Hotel in Khiva

Bukhara: Hotel in Bukhara

Samarkand: Hotel in Samarkand

Tashkent: Hotel in Tashkent

Fergana: Hotel in Fergana

Bishkek: Lakeside Hotel in Bishkek