13 Days 3 Stans Tour for Central Asia’s Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan

Welcome to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s Old Capital & Largest City! Upon your arrival at Almaty International Airport, your guide will greet you with a sign bearing your name at the arrivals gate. From there, it's about a 20 km drive to the downtown area. Enjoy your free time in Almaty.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range, Almaty enchants travelers with its breathtaking natural setting, where snow-capped peaks are always in view. Known as the “Father of Apples” & “City of Apples”, it’s believed to be the genetic birthplace of modern apples. Spot whimsical apple art dotted all over Almaty - sweet, playful, and totally Instagram-worthy!

Once a pivotal city on the Silk Road, Almaty is celebrated for its relaxed, friendly vibe, making it a haven for hikers, foodies, and culture lovers. As Kazakhstan’s former capital (1929–1997), it retains a distinct Soviet-era charm, with leafy streets, grand avenues, and impressive cultural landmarks.

Almaty feels like a blend of European and Asian influences - clean, safe, and vibrant, with a multi-ethnic population of Kazakhs, Russians, Uyghurs, and Koreans. Be sure to try local delicacies like beshbarmak (a hearty meat and noodle dish) and shubat (fermented camel milk) for an authentic taste of nomadic heritage.

Free Time Ideas:
1.Almaty Metro Experience: It is a 18-meter-deep Soviet-era marvel. Ride affordable, scenic lines: Abay Station’s cultural murals, Zhibek Zholy’s art. See uniquely themed stations adorned with beautiful mosaics, murals & ornate chandeliers. It’s an artistic underground museum & a functional transit hub.
2.Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum: As the largest art museum in Kazakhstan, it showcases over 23,000 works from Kazakh folk art and renowned artists to Soviet-era masterpieces & European paintings. Must-sees include works by the museum's namesake, Abilkhan Kasteev, and a rich display of traditional Kazakh crafts.
3.Abay Opera House: Watch an evening performance (affordable) at one of Central Asia's oldest opera houses. It showcases world-class ballet & opera productions. Its elegant, Soviet-era architecture & grand interior provide a truly memorable cultural experience.
4.Night Life at Arbat Street: It is a vibrant pedestrian zone. Enjoy street performers, browse local art and crafts, and relax at one of its many cozy cafes. It's the perfect place to soak up the local culture.

Arrival Ideas:
1. For Flights: Almaty International Airport (ALA) is Kazakhstan’s busiest hub, offering direct flights from major cities like Istanbul, Dubai, Frankfurt, Seoul, Beijing, and Moscow. Check airlines like Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, or Air Astana for the latest schedules and connections.
2.For Visas: Kazakhstan offers visa-free entry for citizens of over 80 countries, including the U.S., EU nations, the UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Asia. Others apply for an e-visa online - fast, simple, and ready for your adventure! Always confirm requirements with official government sources before your trip.

A full day exploring Almaty’s highlights! Today’s Almaty tour blends history, culture & nature: Central State Museum (history buffs’ paradise), Central Mosque (golden domes), Green Bazaar (food & local life), Panfilov Park (honor heroes), Zenkov Cathedral (wooden architecture), Folk Instruments Museum (Kazakh culture & musical tradition), Kok-Tobe Hill (panoramic views).

First, visit Central State Museum of Kazakhstan (Closed on Tuesdays), the landmark of Almaty. Designed by well-known architect Andrey Pavlochich Zenkov and constructed in 1904-1907, it is one of Central Asia's largest and oldest museums, which endured a strong earthquake in 1911. The museum has 3 floors with more than 200,000 exhibits spanning from the Stone Age to modern times, and it offers a deep dive into Kazakh history. Must-sees include the iconic Golden Man replica (4th-century BCE Saka armor; a national symbol of Kazakhstan), Mongol-era artifacts, and traditional nomadic costumes.

Then, pay a visit to the Central Mosque (Closed on Friday). The mosque has a capacity of up to 7,000 people, is one of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan. Minarets are located in the corners of the building, the domes of which are covered with real gold.

Nearby, the Green Bazaar (Zeleny Bazar), a 19th-century market, buzzes with local life and offers a wide array of snacks and souvenirs. Must-sees: vibrant stalls of spices, fruits (apples of different colors), and handmade crafts. Must-tries: juicy samsa (meat pies), tangy kurt (dried cheese), horse sausage (kazy), and delicious dairy treats.

In the afternoon, explore 28 Panfilov Guardsmen Park (Panfilov Park), a green oasis in Almaty. The park is named after Soviet General Ivan Panfilov, 28 soldiers are remembered for delaying the German advance into the Soviet capital of Moscow in 1941. "Great Russia, but nowhere to retreat. Moscow is behind us." These were the final words of political commissar Klochkov, a phrase that became legendary in Soviet history books. Stroll peaceful paths and honor the 28 WWII heroes at the solemn monument with an eternal flame. It shows us how hard war is and why we should care about peace.

Not far away, you’ll find the colorful Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral, in honor of its designer, the Russian architect Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov. This landmark inside Panfilov Park is one of the best photography spots in Almaty.

Completed in 1907, this Tsarist-era wooden building (56 meters tall) is the second-tallest wooden church in the world. As a prime example of a Russian Orthodox church built without a single nail, it remarkably survived the devastating 1911 earthquake (magnitude 7.7) with minimal damage.

During the Soviet period, the cathedral was used to house a museum and a radio tower. Today, it accommodates 1,800 people and hosts regular services. Must-sees include the vibrant interior murals, the intricate iconostasis, and the historic bell tower. Its peaceful ambiance makes it a perfect place for contemplation.

Nearby, you can visit the Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments (Closed on Mondays), which was once the House of Officers. The wooden Russian-style building, erected in 1908, was designed by the same architect as the cathedral, Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov.

Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic country with a long and rich musical history. You can explore over 1,000 instruments here, including Kazakh national musical instruments like wooden harps, horns, bagpipes, the lute-like two-stringed dombra, and the viola-like kobyz. Some were once played by famous composers. You may get a chance to enjoy live performances and interactive exhibits that celebrate the soul of Kazakh music. It's a must for music lovers.

At last, time to reach Kok-Tobe Hill, a symbol of Almaty. With an elevation of 1,100 meters, the hill offers breathtaking views of Almaty city & the snow-capped Shymbulak Mountain (Tianshan Mountains). Ride the scenic cable car, visit the Beatles monument, and snap photos of the iconic TV tower (372 meters tall). Enjoy the amusement park (self-pay; Ferris wheel & mini-zoo), souvenir shops, and local dining. It’s perfect for photography (sunset), relaxation, and family fun amidst nature!

Overnight in Almaty.

Depart Almaty to explore the stunning Charyn Canyon (200 km; 3.5h). When reach Saty Village, transfer to visit the enchanting Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest and breathtaking scenery! Then, head back to Saty Village for overnight. (Today is about 330 km on road).

Charyn Canyon National Park, the second-largest canyon in the world, is a must-see destination near Almaty, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. The park’s 12-million-year-old sedimentary rock formations, carved by the Charyn River, tell a vivid story of Earth’s history - from prehistoric lake beds to ancient river systems.

Often called the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia", the Charyn Canyon is particularly famous for the Valley of Castles (Dolina Zamkov), a section of the canyon with towering, wind-sculpted rock formations that resemble mythical castles and spires. Explore the 2-3 km trail in the Valley of Castles, marveling at the towering cliffs, vibrant colors, and unique geological formations sculpted by wind and water. At the end of the main trail, the canyon floor opens up to the Charyn River. It's a peaceful spot for a rest and offers a different perspective on the canyon's scale. It is great to relax by the Charyn River with a packed lunch or snacks.

The Charyn Canyon National Park spans 154 km along the Charyn River, offering a mix of semi-deserts, lush greenery, and dense forests, with views of the snow-capped Tien Shan Mountains in the distance. You can even try your luck to spot some wildlife, such as foxes, hares, gerbils, eagles, pheasants, snakes and lizards. (What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and a camera.)

After that, head to Kaindy Lake (altitude: 2,000 m) via Saty Village. Nestled in Kolsay Lakes National Park, it is a must-visit for its surreal Sunken Forest, crystal-clear cobalt-blue waters, and dramatic alpine scenery. Formed by a landslide triggered by the 1911 earthquake, the lake submerged a forest of 400-year-old Schrenk’s spruce trees, leaving their skeletal trunks rising vertically from the water like ghostly masts.

Famed as a Lonely Planet "Top 20 Most Amazing Travel Destinations", its iconic feature is the Underwater Forest, where you can watch the perfectly preserved needles of the spruce trees below the waterline. Enjoy the lake’s striking color (from mineral deposits), as it shifts with the light.

Accessible only via rugged mountain roads (switch to 4x4 vehicles; horse riding or hike a short trail), the lake offers a wilderness experience ideal for hikers and photographers. You will be rewarded with vibrant blue-green waters, framed by snow-capped Tian Shan Mountains and dense pine forests - creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.

The lake spans ~400 meters long, reaching nearly 30 meters deep. Walk the shore to admire tree trunks emerging from the water, or hike to viewpoints for panoramic shots of the lake, mountains, and forest. It’s especially stunning in autumn (golden trees) or winter (snow-capped peaks). 

Overnight in Saty Village.

Depart Saty Village to Karakol via Border Across. Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! Often called the "Switzerland of Central Asia," Kyrgyzstan is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and nomadic culture.

Upon arrival, you will spend some time exploring Karakol. You'll head to the Dungan Mosque. Built in 1904, this mosque was constructed entirely of wood, without a single nail. Instead of a minaret, it features a pagoda-like wooden tower. Its unique architecture is a stunning blend of Central Asian Islamic and traditional Chinese temple styles, with a vibrant green, blue, and yellow exterior. Its roof features Chinese-style glazed tiles and intricate wood carvings, while its interior layout fully complies with Islamic traditions.

Later, you'll visit the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral. This church is also a wooden structure, with a cruciform shape and five golden onion-shaped domes - a typical style for Russian Orthodox church. The interior is beautifully decorated, preserving many valuable religious frescoes and icons that depict stories of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the saints.

After the tour, get back to your hotel in Karakol for a good rest.

After breakfast, you'll depart from Karakol and drive to Jety-Oguz Gorge. This gorge, which means "Seven Bulls" in Kyrgyz, is famous for its unique red rock formations, lush valleys, and romantic legends. You'll marvel at the iconic Seven Bulls landmark, where seven giant red rocks stand side-by-side, resembling seven bulls. This is the first and most important photo spot in the gorge. Next to it, an isolated red rock shaped like a Broken Heart is another popular sight. As you venture deeper into the gorge, you'll discover more abundant and pristine natural beauty.

Later, you will be transferred to Bokonbayevo (about 2 hours’ drive) with amazing Issyk-Kul Lake view from road. This village is famous for its authentic nomadic culture and is one of the centers of eagle hunting in Kyrgyzstan. You can watch how hunters work with a golden eagle to demonstrate ancient hunting techniques - one of the oldest traditions of the Kyrgyz nomads.

After that, you'll head to Kyzyl-Tuu village, also located on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. This village is famous for its traditional yurt-making skills, which have been passed down from generation to generation. Considered a living museum for this craft, Kyzyl-Tuu's artisans have mastered all the ancient techniques, from building the wooden frame to making the felt. You'll have a chance to watch yurt-making demonstration and see how they transform a pile of wooden frames and felt into a functional and sturdy traditional home.

Stay overnight at Kyzyl-Tuu village.

After breakfast, your journey will take you to Bishkek. As Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek is a city of green spaces and Soviet-era architecture. Nestled at the foot of the Ala-Too Mountains, Bishkek is Central Asia’s greenest capital and offers stunning views of the Tien Shan Mountains. It serves as a gateway to Kyrgyz culture, history, and outdoor adventures.

En route, you'll visit the Burana Tower. This historic site, originally built in the 11th century, was once part of Balasagun, the ancient capital of the Kara-Khanid Khanate. You can climb to the top of the tower to get a spectacular view of the surrounding ruins and the distant snow-capped mountains. On the ground, you can walk among the Balbals, stone figures that are medieval Turkic nomadic gravestones, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient past.

Overnight in Bishkek.

After breakfast, you will have time to explore the city highlights of Bishkek. Begin at the city's main square - Ala-Too Square. See the imposing statue of Manas, the legendary national hero, as well as the Government House and the national flagpole. At certain times, you may also witness military changing-of-the-guard ceremony.

From the square, walk to beautiful Oak Park, a quiet retreat in the city center with centuries-old oak trees and a collection of sculptures.

And then, move to Osh Bazaar. Experience local life and browse everything from fresh produce, spices, and dried fruits to traditional clothing, handicrafts, and carpets.

This afternoon, you'll drive to Ala-Archa National Park (30 km, 40 minutes to an hour), located southwest of Bishkek. Known as Bishkek's "backyard park," this alpine park in the Tian Shan Mountains offers scenery reminiscent of Switzerland. Majestic snow-capped peaks, blue skies, dense pine forests, alpine meadows, and picturesque river valleys. It's great for light hiking. You can follow the river to enjoy a memorable time here. Keep an eye out for animals like squirrels, red deer, wild goats, or even snow leopard (rare to see)! (Route Tip: There are three hiking routes to choose, we suggest you the easy one follow the riverbank for scenic views).

After the hike, you'll be transferred back to your hotel in Bishkek.

Welcome to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital and largest city! It's the perfect gateway to the country's Silk Road wonders, blending Soviet grandeur with modern charm. Your journey awaits: explore the Soviet-era metro, bustling bazaars, and iconic mosques, and be sure to savor Plov, the National Dish.

Upon your arrival at Tashkent International Airport, your guide will greet you with a sign bearing your name at the arrivals gate. From there, it's about a one-hour drive to the downtown area to begin exploring Old and New Tashkent.

You will visit the Khast-Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of Tashkent’s Old City. This 15th-century Islamic ensemble blends ancient mausoleums, madrasas, and mosques. You can explore Hazrati Imam Mosque (built in 2007 by Uzbekistan’s first president), Tillya Sheikh Mosque, Barak Khan Madrasah, Mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, Imam Al Bukhari Islamic Institute (where future preachers are taught), and Mui Muborak Library (home to the 15th-century Osman Qur’an, one of Islam’s oldest copies).

The Hazrat Imam Mosque has a pair of 53 m high minarets and two domes set in front of the square. The domes are covered with gold leaf from the inside, and the round hall at the entrance is decorated with sandalwood columns.

You can also explore Barak-Khan Madrasah. The teal-domed parts of the complex were originally a “Nameless” Mausoleum, later converted into a madrassah, under the rule of Barak Khan, who ruled the Golden Horde from 1423 to 1429. Today, the madrassah is filled with workshops and small stores producing and selling ikat fabrics, jewelry, woodcarvings, and pottery.

You can visit Mausoleum of Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, the final resting place of Hazrati Imam or Abubakr Muhammad Kaffal Shashi (the first Imam of Tashkent City). This 10th-century imam was also a scientist, poet, craftsman, and scholar of the Koran. According to legend, he received the nickname of Kaffal (“locksmith”) after the wonderful locks he built, each of which had a key weighing three pounds.

Located in the Old City, Hazrati Imam Complex (Khast-Imam Complex) is an oasis of intricate blue domes, towering minarets, quiet gardens, and vibrant tile work, offering a serene and beautiful cultural experience.

Next, journey into the soul of Old Tashkent at Chorsu Bazaar, the city’s largest market. This iconic blue-domed market overflows with vibrant spices, traditional crafts, fresh bread, and dried fruits. Experience vibrant culture, delicious street food, and a unique atmosphere in this lively hub.

To learn about the history of Uzbek craft art and see its masterpieces, simply visit the State Museum of Applied Arts. Established in 1927, the museum's collection contains more than 7,000 of the best works by masters from the early 19th century to the present day. These include ceramics, jewelry, gold embroidery, national clothing, suzans, carpets, skullcaps, miniatures and paintings on wood, porcelain, musical instruments...

After that, it is time to experience the Tashkent Metro. More than a transit system, it is a magnificent underground art gallery. As Central Asia's first subway, it has been blending Soviet grandeur with Uzbek artistry since 1977. From mosaic-clad stations like Kosmonavtlar (cosmonaut murals) to Paxtakor (cotton motifs), you can admire stunning Soviet-era architecture, chandeliers, and intricate mosaics on a unique and beautiful journey through the city.

You can exit Amir Temur Metro Station to explore Modern Tashkent, beginning at Amir Timur Square, a central city landmark. The square is surrounded by notable buildings, Hotel Uzbekistan, Amir Timur Museum, Independence Square, University of Law, the well-known Tashkent Chime, and the Palace of International Forum, one of the most grandiose architectural structures in Tashkent.

The centerpiece of Amir Temur Square is the bronze statue of Amir Temur on horseback, the founder of the Timurid Empire. You can also explore the surrounding green spaces and fountains, and visit the nearby museum to delve deeper into the history of one of Uzbekistan’s greatest figures.

Optional: (If time permits)
Amir Timur Museum (Closed on Mondays; Self-pay; 10:00-18:00): The exterior of the museum is featured on the 1,000 Uzbekistani som banknote.

Free Time Ideas:
1.Independence Square: Tashkent’s largest plaza symbolizing freedom. Stroll through its lush gardens, admire stunning fountains, visit Independence Monument & Eternal Flame, which honor Uzbekistan’s history, culture & sovereignty.
2.Alisher Navoiy Theater (Self-pay): Experience Tashkent's cultural heartbeat. Watch world-class concerts, operas, or ballets in ornate halls, which are lavishly adorned with mosaic domes and gold leaf. Tickets are also very affordable.
3.Magic City Park (Little Disneyland; 10:00-22:00): Enchanting fairy-tale architecture, dazzling light shows, and musical fountains. Perfect for photos, shopping, and dining. No need to pay an entrance fee, but you will pay for each activity separately.

Take a morning train to explore Bukhara, a UNESCO site. Referred to as the "Second Mecca", Bukhara is famous as a 2,500-year-old Silk Road Hub (Samanids to Timurids) and a center for Islamic scholarship. It is also the legendary home of Afandi & is an ancient city tied with the One Thousand and One Nights.

Bukhara is a medium-sized city & nearly all monuments are within walking distance. From Chor Minor to Lyabi Khause Square, Trading Domes, and Kalyan Minaret, it is an over 5 km city walk. Ready to get lost in its living history, friendly locals, and vibrant bazaars!

When you arrive in Bukhara, you'll transfer to Chor Minor Madrasah, the Lonely Planet Central Asia cover star. "Chor Minor" means "four minarets" in Persian. The four minarets were built in 1807 by the wealthy Turkmen merchant Khalif Niyazkul for his four daughters. Each of the towers has a unique decoration. Some people believe that the four different designs reflect the world’s four religions. You may see clear images of Buddhist prayer wheels, Christian crosses, Zoroastrian motifs, or Islamic motifs. It is said that the surviving four-tower structure is part of the gateway from a once-existing madrasah complex.

Next, head to the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble (Lyabi Khause Square), Bukhara’s vibrant 17th-century heart. It was a trade square built around a pool dug in 1620 and shaded by ancient mulberry trees. “Lyabi-Hauz” in Persian means "by the pool." The ensemble’s large artificial pool (42 m long, 36 m wide, and 5 m deep) is surrounded on three sides by three majestic buildings: the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasah (built in 1622; famous for two birds carrying deer toward a "man-in-the-sun" mosaic motif; inspired by Sher-Dor Madrasa’s “Lion” mosaic motif in Samarkand Registan), the Nadir Divan-Beghi Khanaka (a Sufi hospice & monastery, also built in 1622), and the Kukeldash Madrasah (built in 1568). In ancient Bukhara, there were more than 80 such pools, which supplied the city with water. However, they were notorious for spreading disease and were mostly filled in during the 1920s and 1930s.

Built by Nadir Divan-begi (Grand Vizier/prime minister), Lyabi Hauz was once a bustling Silk Road trade hub. It is now alive with cafes and local life. People gather to enjoy tea, watch local craftsmen, and bask in the ambiance of Bukhara’s Silk Road legacy. Don't miss the charming statue of Khodja Nasreddin (Afandi), the wise fool of Sufi legend, riding his mischievous mule. Afandi is a beloved character in the folklore of the entire Muslim world.

After that, continue exploring Trading Domes, the iconic image of Bukhara. They are located on a central pedestrian route in the heart of Bukhara, from the Lyabi Hauz to the Po-i-Kalyan Complex. In the Middle Ages, Bukhara was a major hub on the Silk Road, leading to the proliferation of marketplaces and shops. Today, four main trading domes remain: a cluster of 16th-century domed bazaars (Toki-Zargaron, Toki-Sarrofon, Telpak-Furushon & Tim Abdullah Khan) that once thrived as hubs for jewelry, currency exchange, hats & carpets. Nowadays, you can see stalls selling traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Enjoy a glimpse into Bukhara’s mercantile past.

At last, you will reach Po-i-Kalyan Complex, the visual high point of the city’s skyline. At Poi Kalon Square, you will see three majestic structures built between the 12th and 16th centuries: the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque & Mir-i Arab Madrasah. This breathtaking arrangement of minaret, mosque, and madrasa forms the spiritual and architectural heart of the old city, a perfect example of harmonious design.

The iconic Kalyan Minaret, which once guided Silk Road caravans, was built in 1127. Standing 47 meters tall, it earned the title "Tower of Death" due to ancient legends. During the siege of Bukhara in 1220, Genghis Khan was so mesmerized by this minaret that he spared it from destruction.

The Kalon Mosque (Great Mosque) is a vast hypostyle with 288 domes, capable of holding 10,000 worshippers. The Mir-i-Arab Madrasa is a top Islamic school with stunning turquoise domes and intricate tilework. Constructed with the profits from the sale of 3,000 Persian slaves, the madrasa combines Timurid architecture with active scholarship. Together, these buildings embody Silk Road grandeur—making the complex ideal for photos, history, and cultural immersion.

Free Time Idea:
Enjoy a sunset at the Ark of Bukhara. Climb to the top of its facade for a commanding panoramic view of Po-i-Kalyan Complex & the city.

This morning, go on an exploring of Bukhara, the Religious and Academic Capital of the Silk Road, to see its ancient mausoleums, fortress & mosque. In the afternoon, take a train to Samarkand, the Legendary Silk Road Crossroads founded 2,700 years ago.

First, pay a visit to the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the oldest funerary building in Central Asian architecture. It's the 9th-10th-century resting place of the Samanid ruler Ismail Samani and is the only surviving monument from the Samanid era. Regarded as an iconic example of early Islamic architecture, you can admire its intricate brickwork, geometric patterns, and durable construction. You will notice the mausoleum draws elements from early Sogdian architecture (heavy corner buttresses) and Sassanid fire worship (circular brick suns & the canopy shape of sacred Zoroastrian temples). A quiet refuge in Samani Park, it reflects early Islamic artistry without excessive ornamentation.

Next, move to Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum to see the Spring of Holy Ayub. The mausoleum dates back to the 12th century (built by Karakhanid rulers) and features a tent-like Karakhanid-style roof. It consists of the mausoleum and a holy spring. Legend has it that the prophet Job struck his staff on the ground here, causing a spring to appear whose water then cured him of his many boils and ulcers. Today, it includes a Museum of Water about water management in Bukhara & a tap where pilgrims drink from the spring.

After that, head to explore the Ark of Bukhara (Ark Fortress), whose image was printed on Uzbekistan’s 2,000-som banknote. It is Bukhara’s ancient fortress, built the 5th c. AD, and rebuilt in the 16th–17th c. For centuries, it served as a royal town-within-a-town for Bukhara’s emirs. Its 11-meter-thick walls enclose museums, the 17th-century Coronation Mosque, a throne room, and prison cells. Outside, in front of the fortress, is medieval Bukhara’s main square, the Registan Square, a favourite venue for executions, including those of the British officers Stoddart and Conolly. Once a symbol of power, it now displays royal artifacts, weapons, and manuscripts. You can explore its labyrinthine chambers, climb the battlements for panoramic views of Bukhara, and learn about Bukhara’s medieval governance.

Located directly opposite the Ark of Bukhara, the Bolo Hauz Mosque (Mosque of the Forty Columns) is a stunning architectural gem. It is a royal mosque built in 1712, famed for its 20 intricately carved wooden pillars and their reflection in the adjacent "Forty Pillars" pond. Famous for its beautifully carved, brightly painted wooden columns and ornate ceiling, it once served as the emir’s Friday mosque. It is a peaceful spot to admire classic Uzbek artistry.

Then, transfer to Bukhara train station for an afternoon train ride to Samarkand. Over night in Samarkand.

Free Time Idea:
Registan Square of Samarkand (Evening View): golden-lit madrasahs, dazzling light shows, magical atmosphere - surreal history and beauty, ideal for photos.

Enjoy your time in Samarkand (World Heritage Site), the capital of the Timurid Empire (14th–15th centuries) & Uzbekistan’s Second-largest City. From Gur Emir Mausoleum (tomb of Timur) to Registan Square (Central Asia’s most famous), Bibi Khanim Mosque (commemorate Timur's wife), Shahi Zinda Necropolis (an open-air art gallery), and Siyab Bazaar (for plov & bread), you will find that its atmosphere is centered around memorial architecture of breathtaking scale & beauty, reflecting the glory and power of the Timurid Dynasty.

Start with a visit to Gur-e Amir Mausoleumof the Mongol Conqueror Amir Timur. Completed in 1404, it was originally intended to be the tomb of Timur’s grandson, but after Timur died in 1405, he was interred there as well, along with other members of his family. The mausoleum dazzles with its majestic azure ribbed dome - a prototype for later Mughal architecture, including India’s Taj Mahal. Inside, marvel at the lavish gold-leaf interior, intricate jade tombstones, and ornate calligraphy adorning the walls.

You can look for the inscribed jade plaque marking Timur’s grave - a sacred site shrouded in legend and power. Legend has it that there was a warning against opening the grave, stating, “Whosoever disturbs my tomb will unleash an invader more terrible than I”. However, Soviet archeologists did so on June 19, 1941, and a few days later, Nazi Germany attacked the USSR. When they reburied the remains in 1942, the victorious battle of Stalingrad began. The Soviet anthropologists confirmed Timur’s height (172 cm) and lameness, and the fact that Timur's grandson, Ulugh Beg, was assassinated.

The complex comprised a madrasah & a khanaka (prince’s residence), both facing the rectangular courtyard, as well as four minarets at the courtyard corners and an entrance portal. Now, only the foundations of the madrasah and khanaka, the entrance portal, and a part of one of four minarets remain.

Next, visit Registan Square, a must for experiencing the grandeur of Samarkand & the heart of the Silk Road. The word “Registan” means “Sandy Place” in Tajik. Many centuries ago, the area of this square was all sand. In ancient times, the square served as a meeting place for the governing people and the residents to publicly announce the khans' decrees, to gather the army, to perform executions of bandits, or to celebrate folk festivals.

Located in the heart of Samarkand, this square is also known for the three medieval schools: Ulugh Beg Madrasa (built in 1420; celestial mosaics), Tilya-kori Madrasa (built in 1660; gold-leafed dome; cover photo of the Lonely Planet Book, The Silk Road), and Sher-Dor Madrasa (built in 1619; lion mosaics on Uzbekistan’s 200-som banknote).

Built by Ulugh Beg, Timur's grandson & a scientist on the throne, the Ulugh Beg Madrasa offered not only Islamic education but also astronomy, geometry, philosophy, and the natural sciences. The Sher-Dor Madrasa is famous for the “Lion” mosaic motif on the front of the building. Sher-Dor means “possessing lions”. The Lion mosaic is unique to medieval Islamic historic buildings, since depicting animals and people is against Sharia.

By day, admire intricate tilework and soak in the grandeur of Registan Square; by night, be captivated by magical light shows that bring the madrasahs to life. A blend of history, art, and spectacle, it’s a journey through the Silk Road’s golden age. (PS: You can see Registan Square on the 50 Uzbekistani som banknote.)

After that, move to explore Bibi Khanim Mosque (built in 1404), one of the most ambitious architectural projects of the Timurid period. Legend says the mosque was built by the Timur's favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym, in honor of his return from India. The architect fell madly in love with her and refused to finish the job unless he could give her a kiss. The smooch left a mark, and Timur, on seeing it, executed the architect and decreed that women should henceforth wear veils. The interiors of the mosque contain gilding, imitating local brocade embroideries.

Right next to Bibi Khanim Mosque, Siyab Bazaar is a sensory delight. This bustling market is a perfect place to experience local life, find fresh fruits, nuts, spices, and famous Samarkand bread.

At last, time to enjoy a walk in Shahi Zinda Necropolis, a captivating " avenue of mausoleums" and an open-air art gallery. It is an 11th-15th c. "Living King" necropolis along a hillside path. Admire Timurid-era blue-tile masterpieces, including tombs of Timur’s family (women) members and high-ranking officials. Legend of Prophet Muhammad’s cousin’s tomb adds mystique. In recent years, Shah-i-Zinda has become not only a pilgrimage site but also a favorite destination for photography due to its beauty.

In the morning, explore more about Samarkand, the Silk Road gem. With a visit to the Ulugh Beg Observatory, Tomb of Sait Daniel, and Afrosiab Museum, you may see why it was the center of history, culture, and scientific contributions in the past. Then, head back to Tashkent by train.

The Ulugh Beg Observatory is a must-visit for history and astronomy enthusiasts. Built in the 1420s by the renowned Astronomer King Ulugh Beg (grandson of the emperor Timur), it was one of the most advanced observatories of its time. Destroyed in 1449 and rediscovered in 1908, the ruins reveal medieval Samarkand’s intellectual prowess. You should not miss the impressive sextant (11m long), used to calculate celestial positions with incredible accuracy. The on-site museum offers fascinating insights into Ulugh Beg’s contributions to science. Perched on a hill, the observatory combines breathtaking views of Samarkand with the legacy of a visionary astronomer.

Next, visit the Khodja Doniyor Mausoleum (Tomb of Sait Daniel), a sacred site revered by Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike. It houses the tomb of Prophet Daniel (under five domes), which stretches an astonishing 18 meters long due to a legend of the saint's remains growing over time. Timur brought Daniel’s relics here in the 15th century, creating a pilgrimage hub. This site, located on the banks of the Siab River, also features a sacred spring with healing properties, making it a peaceful and powerful place to reflect and witness the confluence of different faiths. It is a great spot to undestand Samarkand – the crossroads of cultures.

Before transferring to train station for Tashkent, it’s a great idea to conclude your Samarkand tour with a visit to the Afrosiab Museum. This museum, built atop Samarkand’s 2,500-year-old ruins, unveils the city’s ancient soul. Its crown jewel is the 7th-century Sogdian frescoes, notably the "Hall of Ambassadors" mural, depicting King Varkhuman receiving envoys from China, Persia, and beyond—a testament to Silk Road diplomacy. Artifacts like pottery, coins, and ossuaries trace eras from the Achaemenid to Timurid periods, while a scale model reconstructs the pre-Mongol metropolis. A must for history lovers to walk through a lost golden age.

Take a train ride to Tashkent for overnight.

It is time to end your unforgettable 13 Days Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Uzbekistan Tour. Your driver will ensure a smooth transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your departure flight.

Trip Extension: If you'd like to extend your adventures in Central Asia, consider exploring other notable regions like Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, etc. Feel free to contact us to customize your extended itinerary.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your tour of Asia. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe journey home!