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

Itinerary

Day 1: Tashkent Arrival, Tashkent City Tour

Arrival in Tashkent, followed hotel transfer. After noon check in you’ll meet your guide for a city tour, both old, and new. Starting at Khast-Imam Complex in the old city, with nearby Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheykh Mosque, Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. Explore Chorsu Bazaar, then take the metro to the new city centre to visit the Applied Arts Museum, walking through Navoi Theatre to Amir Timur Square. Evening will be free to yourselves.

Dinner included

Day 2: Urgench Flight, Khiva Transfer & Khiva City Tour

Early morning transfer for local flight to Urgench. Then transfer to Khiva. Spend the day in Itchan Kala Fortress. With optional visits to the local madrasah’s, mosques, mausoleums, Tosh-Khovli Palace, and Minaret of Islom-Khoja. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to enjoy at your leisure.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 3: Bukhara Transfer Via Kyzylkum Desert

Morning departure from Khiva to drive to Bukhara. Passing alongside the Kyzylkum desert, with an option to stop by to enjoy the views, and the Amudarya River on the way. Arrive in Bukhara late afternoon. Free time to explore your new surroundings.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 4: Khiva City Tour

A full day city will take up most of your day. There will be mosques, trade domes, madrasah’s, mausoleums, Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, Kalyan Minaret, and the impressive Ark Fortress. Free evening to unwind and relax.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 5: Khiva Morning Tour & Samarkand Transfer

Visit Sitoria Mokhi-Khosa, summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir. This is followed by the mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi. The afternoon will be departing for Samarkand, stopping at 11^th century Caravanserai Rabat Malik. Free evening to enjoy your new location.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 6: Samarkand City Tour

Today you’ll tour the city seeing Registan Square followed by Siab Bazaar, Ulugbek Observatory, Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, and Gur Emir Mausoleum. Free evening to enjoy.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 7: Samarkand Morning Tour, Konigil Paper Making Village & Afrosiyob Train to Tashkent

Visit Afrasiab Museum, Tomb of Saint Daniel, and the unique village of Konigil, where the traditional making of paper using mulberry. Free afternoon with car and driver to explore. Late afternoon transfer to the railway station to catch the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Tashkent. Late Evening arrival for overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 8: Fergana Valley Transfer via Kamchik, Kokand & Fergana City Tour

Drive to Fergana Valley through the picturesque mountain pass of Kamchik. The first stop will be at Kokand, where you will visit Khudoyar-Khan Palace, Jami Mosque, Norbut-biy Madrasah, and Kamol-Kazy Madrasah. After this continue the drive to Fergana City. On arrival visit Akhmad Al-Fergana Park for a piece of calmness before checking in to your hotel. Evening will be free time to enjoy the city.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 9: Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah, Yodgorlik Silk Factory & Rishtan Pottery Visit

In the morning drive to Margilan and visit Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah, home to many craftsmen, working with handmade silks. A walk to the local market will see more of these crafts on and go to Yodgorlik Silk Factory to witness the process of making silks. On a Thursday or Sunday, you’ll be able to visit Kumtepa Bazaar, the largest market in Fergana Valley. In the afternoon drive to Rishtan to visit ceramic master Rustam Usmanov to see his world-renowned works and a pottery workshop. Return to Fergana for free evening in the city.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 10: Kyrgyzstan Border Crossing, Osh Transfer, Osh City Tour & Bishkek Flight

In the morning you’ll be transferred to cross the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan border. Once past your border you’ll meet your new local guide and driver that will take you to Osh for a short city tour. Visit Suleyman Too (King Solomon’s Mountain 3000 years ago), National Museum of History and Archaeology, and Osh Bazaar, which used to be a big trade location on the Great Silk Road. After this you’ll be transferred to the local airport for your flight to Bishkek. Hotel transfer and evening to enjoy your new location.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 11: Ala-Archa National Park Hiking & Bishkek City Tour

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Ala-Archa National Park with its many hiking trails and beautiful scenery of the alpine gorge, snowy peaks, and the fast-flowing Ala-Archa River. The day will be free to explore the national park as you wish. The afternoon will be a city tour back in Bishkek visiting Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, Statue of Minas, and Philharmonic Hall. Free evening in the city.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 12: Issyk-Kul Lake, Burana Tower & Balasagun Ruins

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Issyk-Kul Lake, with a stop to see Burana Tower and the remains of the ancient city of Balasagun. Continue to the lake, which is the second largest mountain lake in the world. On arrival you’ll be checked into your lakeside hotel with dinner in the evening.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 13: Grigoriavskoe Gorge Trekking, Bishkek Transfer Via Cholpon-Ata

Breakfast will be followed by a transfer to Grigorievskoe Gorge, heralded as the most beautiful gorge in the region for a morning of trekking. You’ll then transfer to Bishkek stopping at Cholpon-Ata to see the Petroglyphs, rock carvings and visit the Ethnographical Museum. Continue to Bishkek for free time in the city and a dinner at the hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 14: Free Morning in Bishkek & Departure Flight

After breakfast you’ll have a free morning till noon check out and a transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

✓ Breakfast

INCLUSIONS:

• All transfers: 1-2 pax by sedan type car; 3-7 pax on minivan/van, 8-13 pax by 20 seat bus;
• Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
• Guided sightseeing tour program, in Uzbekistan local guides in each city;
• Entrance tickets to the sights as per itinerary;
• Economy class tickets for flights Tashkent-Urgench, Osh-Bishkek;
• Ticket for train Samarkand-Tashkent (on rare occasions when the high-speed train is unavailable, we will replace this with the most-comfortable class of regular train);
• Tour leader to accompany the travelers for the whole period of the tour in Kyrgyzstan (except for the day 14 – transfer to the airport);
• Mineral water 1l pax/day;
• Starting 8 persons English speaking tour leader from Advantour in Uzbekistan;
• Starting 10 persons +1 person travels free of charge accommodated in single room;
• Visa support letter for Uzbekistan visa.

EXCLUSIONS:

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £3,212
– 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 Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent, followed by a city tour including Khast-Imam Complex and Amir Timur Square.

Day 2: Transfer to Khiva, exploring Itchan Kala Fortress and optional visits to local sites.

Day 3: Drive from Khiva to Bukhara through Kyzylkum Desert, with free time upon arrival.

Day 4: Full-day city tour of Bukhara, visiting mosques, trade domes, and Ark Fortress.

Day 5: Morning tour in Khiva, then transfer to Samarkand with a stop at Caravanserai Rabat Malik.

Day 6: Explore Samarkand’s landmarks like Registan Square and Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis.

Day 7: Visit Afrasiab Museum and Konigil Paper Making Village, then take Afrosiyob train to Tashkent.

Day 8: Transfer to Fergana Valley via Kamchik Pass and Kokand, with a city tour upon arrival.

Day 9: Visit Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah and Yodgorlik Silk Factory in the morning, pottery visit in Rishtan in the afternoon.

Day 10: Cross the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan border, explore Osh, and fly to Bishkek.

Day 11: Hike in Ala-Archa National Park and tour Bishkek’s landmarks.

Day 12: Visit Issyk-Kul Lake, Burana Tower, and Balasagun Ruins.

Day 13: Trek in Grigoriavskoe Gorge, see Petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata, and return to Bishkek.

Day 14: Enjoy a free morning in Bishkek before departing for your flight home.

FAQs

1. What is the duration of this tour?
   • This tour spans 14 days, offering an extensive exploration of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan’s cultural and historical landmarks.
2. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the tour, providing a taste of authentic Central Asian cuisine.
3. Is transportation included in the tour?
   • Yes, all transportation including flights, transfers, and drives between destinations are included, ensuring seamless travel throughout the itinerary.
4. Are entrance fees to attractions included?
   • Yes, entrance fees to specified attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included, allowing travellers to fully immerse themselves in the cultural and historical sites visited during the tour.
5. What level of physical activity is required for this tour?
   • While most activities are accessible to travellers of average fitness levels, some excursions may involve walking, hiking, or trekking. However, the itinerary is designed to accommodate a range of physical abilities.
6. What accommodations are provided during the tour?
   • Accommodations include a mix of hotels and guesthouses, ensuring comfortable stays throughout the journey with opportunities to experience local hospitality.
7. How safe are the countries visited on this tour?
   • Both Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are generally safe destinations for travellers. However, like any other country, it’s essential to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings. The tour operators ensure that accommodations, transportation, and activities are selected with safety in mind. Additionally, it’s advisable to follow local customs and laws and stay updated on any travel advisories before departure.