18 Days Uzbekistan Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan Tour: 4 Stans & Diverse Experience

Hello travelers! Welcome to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital and largest city! This modern metropolis is the perfect gateway to the country’s Silk Road wonders, seamlessly blending Soviet-era grandeur with contemporary spirit.

Upon landing at Tashkent International Airport, your guide will meet you at the arrival gate, holding a sign with your name. From there, transfer to your downtown hotel, and check in your hotel. (Tip: the airport is located just about 7 km southeast of the city center, a quick and easy transfer.)

Arrival in Tashkent

Fly into Tashkent International Airport (TAS), the main gateway to Uzbekistan, served by major airlines such as Uzbekistan Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa, with direct flights from Moscow, Dubai, Istanbul, Seoul, and Beijing. For a seamless trip, double-check flight options with Asia Odyssey Travel before booking.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Travel is hassle-free: over 60 nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, while others can easily apply online for an e-visa. Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months, and confirm the latest entry rules through Uzbekistan’s official e-visa portal before departure.

Half-day City Tour in Tashkent:

This afternoon, explore Tashkent, a city where centuries-old traditions meet modern charm. Begin your day in the Old City at the Khast-Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of Tashkent. This serene ensemble of blue-domed mosques, mausoleums, and madrasahs invites you to step back in time. Here you’ll find the elegant Hazrati Imam Mosque, whose twin 53-meter minarets and gold-leafed domes dominate the square, as well as the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, Barak Khan Madrasah, and the Mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, a 10th-century scholar, poet, and locksmith-saint after whom the complex is named. Be sure to visit the Mui Muborak Library, home to the revered 7th-century Osman Qur’an - one of the world’s oldest copies.

After soaking up the complex’s peaceful atmosphere, stroll through Barak Khan Madrasah, now home to artisan workshops and boutiques. Watch local masters create ikat fabrics, woodcarvings, pottery, and jewelry, giving you a chance to bring home a unique handmade souvenir.

In the afternoon, descend underground for a ride on the Tashkent Metro - an experience in itself. As the first subway system in Central Asia, it is a living museum of Soviet architecture and Uzbek decorative art. Each station is uniquely designed, from Kosmonavtlar with its cosmonaut-themed mosaics to Paxtakor with cotton motifs.

Emerge at Amir Timur Square, the heart of modern Tashkent. Surrounded by landmarks such as Hotel Uzbekistan, the Palace of International Forums, and the University of Law, the square is anchored by a bronze equestrian statue of Amir Timur, the great Central Asian conqueror and founder of the Timurid Empire. Take time to relax by the fountains, stroll through the green spaces, and - if time allows - visit the Amir Timur Museum (closed Mondays), whose striking dome is depicted on the 1,000-som banknote. Inside, discover fascinating exhibits on Timur’s life and legacy.

After the tour, be escorted to the hotel in Tashkent.

This morning, take the train from Tashkent to Bukhara, where you will be met at the railway station and transferred to begin your exploration.

Bukhara - a UNESCO World Heritage city often called the “Second Mecca” - is more than 2,500 years old. Once a major Silk Road hub and a flourishing center of Islamic scholarship, it was also the legendary setting for tales from One Thousand and One Nights.

Begin with a visit to the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of Central Asia’s most important architectural treasures and the only surviving monument of the Samanid dynasty (9th–10th centuries). This cube-shaped brick masterpiece is celebrated for its harmonious proportions and intricate brickwork, blending Zoroastrian symbolism with early Islamic design. Located in the peaceful Samani Park, it offers a quiet spot to reflect on Bukhara’s ancient history and enduring spiritual legacy.

As evening falls, head to the Ark of Bukhara, the city’s ancient fortress and former royal residence. Climb to its viewing platform for a panoramic sunset over the Po-i-Kalyan complex and the old town’s silhouette - an unforgettable way to end your first day in Bukhara.

Enjoy an overnight stay in this timeless Silk Road city - Bukhara.

Bukhara is a compact, walkable city where nearly all monuments lie within 5 km of each other - perfect for a leisurely day of exploration.

This morning, board the train to Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage city often called the “Second Mecca.” With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Bukhara was one of the great hubs of the Silk Road, a thriving center of Islamic scholarship, and the legendary setting for many tales from One Thousand and One Nights.

Bukhara is a compact, walkable city where nearly all monuments lie within 5 km of each other - perfect for a leisurely day of exploration. After arrival, transfer to Chor Minor Madrasah, the famous “Four Minarets” whose unique towers, each with different decoration, are believed by some to represent the world’s four religions.

Continue to Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, the lively heart of 17th-century Bukhara. This square was built around a tranquil pool shaded by ancient mulberry trees and surrounded by three remarkable monuments: the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasah and Khanaka, and the Kukeldash Madrasah. Once a busy Silk Road trading hub, Lyabi Hauz remains vibrant today, with teahouses, artisans, and locals gathering around the charming statue of Khodja Nasreddin (Afandi), the beloved trickster-philosopher of Central Asian folklore.

Stroll through the historic Trading Domes, a series of 16th-century bazaars that once specialized in jewelry, currency exchange, hats, and carpets. Today, they are filled with stalls selling traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, offering a lively glimpse into Bukhara’s mercantile past.

Your walking tour ends at the majestic Po-i-Kalyan Complex, the spiritual and architectural centerpiece of the city. The iconic Kalyan Minaret (built in 1127 and spared by Genghis Khan) towers 47 meters over the square, joined by the vast Kalyan Mosque - capable of holding 10,000 worshippers—and the stunning Mir-i-Arab Madrasah with its turquoise domes and intricate tilework.

Stay overnight in Bukhara.

After breakfast, set off from Bukhara toward Samarkand, with a stop in Shakhrisabz - the birthplace of the great conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane).

The journey from Bukhara to Shakhrisabz (about 264 km, 4-5 hours) takes you through flat desert landscapes before giving way to rolling hills dotted with lush green fields and orchards.

Upon arrival in Shakhrisabz, explore the Ruins of Ak-Saray Palace, Timur’s grand summer residence. Although only fragments of the monumental gateway remain, its scale is awe-inspiring - its soaring arch once stood over 40 meters high, richly decorated with blue-glazed tiles that hint at its former glory.

Continue to the Dorut Tilovat Complex, a serene ensemble of religious buildings where Timur’s spiritual mentor, Sheikh Shamsiddin Kulol, is buried. Admire the intricately tiled Kok Gumbaz Mosque, known as the “Blue Dome,” built by Timur’s grandson Ulugh Beg.

Then, visit the Dorus Saodat Complex, Timur’s intended dynastic mausoleum. Walk through its tranquil courtyards and see the crypt believed to have been prepared for Timur himself, a place of great historical significance.

After your visit, continue the scenic drive to Samarkand (92 km, about 1.5-2 hours), arriving in the late afternoon or evening. Check in and enjoy a good stay in this legendary Silk Road city.

Today, immerse yourself in Samarkand, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Timurid Empire (14th–15th centuries). Known as Uzbekistan’s cultural heart and second-largest city, Samarkand dazzles visitors with its monumental architecture, Silk Road legends, and vibrant bazaars. From the majestic Gur-e Amir Mausoleum to the iconic Registan Square, the grand Bibi Khanim Mosque, the breathtaking Shahi Zinda Necropolis, and the lively Siyab Bazaar, you will discover a city that celebrates the glory and power of the Timurid dynasty.

Begin at Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), completed in 1404. This striking monument, crowned with a ribbed azure dome, served as a prototype for later Mughal architecture, including India’s Taj Mahal. Step inside to marvel at its gilded interior, intricate jade tombstones, and delicate calligraphy. Look for Timur’s legendary grave marker, said to carry a warning: “Whosoever disturbs my tomb will unleash an invader more terrible than I.” When Soviet archaeologists opened the tomb in June 1941, Nazi Germany invaded the USSR days later - a story that adds an air of mystery to your visit.

Next, head to Registan Square, the heart of Samarkand and one of the Silk Road’s most magnificent sights. Once a sandy gathering place for royal decrees, military parades, and festivals, it is now flanked by three resplendent madrasahs: Ulugh Beg Madrasa (1420), with its starry celestial mosaics; Sher-Dor Madrasa (1619), famed for its unique lion mosaics; and Tilya-Kori Madrasa (1660), with a dazzling gold-leaf dome that graces the cover of many guidebooks. By day, Registan is a masterpiece of symmetry and tilework; by night, it transforms under magical illuminations - a perfect spot for photography.

Continue to the monumental Bibi Khanim Mosque, one of the largest in the Islamic world. Built in 1404 to honor Timur’s wife, the mosque is steeped in legend - including the tale of the architect who dared to kiss Bibi Khanim and met Timur’s wrath. Step inside to admire gilded decorations inspired by local embroidery traditions.

Right nearby lies Siyab Bazaar, where you can sample Samarkand’s famous round bread, dried fruits, and spices while mingling with locals - a lively reminder that Samarkand was once a key Silk Road trading hub.

End your day with a stroll through Shahi Zinda Necropolis, an extraordinary “avenue of mausoleums” climbing a hillside. This necropolis, dating from the 11th to 15th centuries, contains some of the finest examples of Timurid-era tilework and the tombs of Timur’s female relatives and high-ranking nobles. The site is also believed to house the grave of Qutham ibn Abbas, cousin of Prophet Muhammad, making it a revered pilgrimage site. With its brilliant turquoise domes and intricate mosaics, Shahi Zinda is not just a spiritual landmark but also one of Samarkand’s most photogenic spots.

This morning, you will transfer from your hotel in Samarkand to the Uzbekistan–Tajikistan border at Jartepa (50 km, about 1 hour). After completing customs and passport control on both sides, simply walk to the exit of the border control area.

Here, your Tajik guide and driver will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name. After a warm welcome, you will set off on a short drive (20 km, about 30 minutes) to reach Penjikent, your first destination in Tajikistan.

Known as the “Pompeii of Central Asia,” Penjikent was once a major center of the ancient Sogdian civilization. Between the 5th and 8th centuries, this city thrived as a cultural and commercial hub on the Silk Road. The Sogdians were known as the “soul of the Silk Road,” dominating trade across Eurasia - from Chinese silk to Western glassware and Indian spices.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin exploring Penjikent. Start with the Rudaki Museum, home to thousands of artifacts unearthed from local excavations - pottery, coins, sculptures, and tools - which vividly depict the Sogdian way of life. Here you’ll discover their art, clothing, mythology, and even scenes of feasts and rituals.

Next, visit the Ancient Penjikent Ruins, the remarkably preserved remains of a complete 5th–8th century Sogdian city. As you walk among the mud-brick foundations of palaces, residential quarters, temples, and fortifications, you can clearly visualize the city’s original layout and imagine the bustling life of the Silk Road era.

Travel Note: As you head deeper into the Fann Mountains, expect simpler tourist infrastructure. Tonight, you will stay in the best available local hotel, but with more basic amenities compared to the big cities. Consider this part of the adventure and a chance to experience authentic Tajik hospitality.

After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable full-day adventure to explore Tajikistan’s legendary Seven Lakes, known locally as Haftkul or the Marguzor Lakes. These seven glacier-fed lakes are strung together by a single river, like a sparkling necklace laid across the valley floor.

Your journey begins with a bumpy but scenic drive into the mountains. Though the Seven Lakes are not far from Penjikent, the rugged road makes this a full-day trip. As you travel deeper into the valley, you’ll pass the first five lakes - Nejigon, Soya, Gushor, Nofin, and Khurdak - each with its own distinct color, ranging from pale green to vivid turquoise and deep blue. It’s like nature’s own painter’s palette.

Light Hike from the Sixth to the Seventh of the Seven Lakes:

You’ll reach Marguzor, the sixth and largest lake, a dazzling expanse of sapphire water framed by dramatic peaks. From here, take an easy two-hour round-trip hike to Hazorchashma, the seventh and highest lake, whose name means “A Thousand Springs.” The water here is crystal clear, and the surrounding atmosphere feels serene and untouched.

Enjoy a picnic by the lakeshore, soak in the alpine views, and perhaps take a short stroll through the nearby villages to experience the simple, authentic rhythm of Tajik mountain life.

In the afternoon, return by road to Penjikent for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, leave Penjikent and set out for Iskanderkul Lake, a scenic 3-4 hour drive (151 km) through winding mountain roads and dramatic gorges.

Nestled deep in the majestic Fann Mountains at an altitude of 2,200 meters, Iskanderkul is Tajikistan’s most celebrated lake - often called one of the most beautiful in the entire former Soviet Union. Its name means “Lake of Alexander,” and legend says that Alexander the Great once paused here during his campaigns, giving the lake an air of mystery and romance.

As you arrive, the first thing that will capture your attention is the lake’s striking emerald-green water, shimmering under the sun like a giant jewel. Take a leisurely walk along the shore to admire the surrounding scenery - snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and hidden waterfalls - and find a quiet spot to simply sit and soak in the tranquility of this alpine paradise. This is also a perfect place to capture stunning photos.

If you wish, enjoy a short hike to the nearby waterfall, where the rushing water contrasts beautifully with the peaceful lake setting.

In the late afternoon, continue scenic 3-4-hour (134 km) drive to the capital, Dushanbe. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a good rest tonight.

After breakfast, our local guide will take you to explore Dushanbe fully. Begin at the Independence Monument in the city center - a striking 45-meter golden column topped with an 11.5-meter, seven-tiered crown, built to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Republic of Tajikistan’s independence.

From here, continue to the Statue of Ismail Somoni, the founder of the Samanid Empire (9th–10th century). He is remembered for leading Tajik culture into its golden age. Revered as the father of the nation and a national hero, his monument is one of the most important landmarks in the city.

Next, a short walk brings you to Rudaki Park, a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Dushanbe. Here you will find fountains and flowerbeds, as well as the grand statue of Rudaki, regarded as the father of classical Persian literature and honored as Tajikistan’s national poet. This is a relaxing place to enjoy the local atmosphere.

And in this afternoon, go to the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, the country’s most important archaeological museum. Its collections come entirely from key excavation sites such as Penjikent, Koshona, and Takht-i Sangin. Here you’ll encounter the museum’s most famous treasure - the 12-meter-long clay Reclining Buddha in Nirvana, a masterpiece that offers a rare glimpse into the region’s Buddhist past. You’ll also see artifacts reflecting Sogdian culture, as well as sculptures, vessels, and jewelry influenced by Hellenistic art.

Continue to the Gurminj Museum of Musical Instruments, a hidden gem showcasing unique string instruments from Tajikistan and across Central Asia - from the tar and dotar to the elegant setar. You may even enjoy a live performance, letting you experience the soul of Tajik music.

If time allows, visit the Imam Abu Hanifa Mosque, also known as the Dushanbe Central Mosque. It is the largest mosque in Central Asia. Its vast white marble dome, flanked by four towering minarets, beautifully combines traditional Islamic architecture with modern design. Inside and out, the mosque is richly decorated with mosaics, intricate geometric patterns, and elegant calligraphy.

After your cultural immersion, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

On this day, you will be transferred to the airport in Dushanbe for your flight to Bishkek.

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! Often called the "Switzerland of Central Asia," Kyrgyzstan is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and nomadic culture. Bishkek, the capital, is filled with Soviet-era charm and lush greenery.

Upon landing at Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek, your local driver will be waiting to transfer you to your downtown hotel. (Tip: the airport is about 32 km northwest of Bishkek, 40min to 1-hour drive.) After checking in, you'll have time to explore the city on your own.

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.

After breakfast, your journey will take you east from Bishkek towards Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest high-altitude lake.

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.

Afterward, continue your drive to Cholpon-Ata (3-hour drive), on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul. You'll check in to your hotel, and the rest of the day will be yours to relax and enjoy the beautiful lake.

Issyk-Kul is the "Pearl of Central Asia"! The lake's name means "warm lake" in Kyrgyz, as its saltwater composition keeps it from freezing even at an altitude of 1,607 meters. Its crystal-clear waters give you the feeling of being on the seashore.

Ideas for Free Time at Issyk-Kul Lake:

(1) Relax or Swim: Head to the golden sandy beaches to sunbathe or swim in the warm, clear water. (2) Take a Boat Trip: Go to the pier and take a boat out onto the lake to admire the magnificent views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. After that, you'll visit the Petroglyphs Museum. This open-air museum (42 hectares) is set on vast land with the majestic Tianshan Mountain range as backdrop. Here, you'll find ancient petroglyphs carved on massive black basalt stones, which are dated from the 2nd millennium BC until the 4th century AD. These carvings depict animals like wolves and snow leopards, as well as hunting and sacrificial scenes.

After that, you will be transferred to Karakol. It is about 145km, with 3-3.5 hours’ drive. Karakol is the administrative center of the Issyk-Kul region. The city also served as a military outpost during the 19th-century Russian Empire.

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.

After the tour, be transferred back to Karakol. You will have more time to explore Karakol. And stay overnight here.

Today, you’ll depart from Karakol and journey toward the Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan border. After completing border formalities, continue your scenic drive to Saty Village, a charming gateway to Kazakhstan’s natural wonders.

If time allows, stretch your legs with a light hike around the village to soak in the fresh mountain air and tranquil surroundings before settling in for the evening.

After breakfast, set out for Kaindy Lake (alt. 2,000 m), traveling through Saty Village before venturing into the pristine landscapes of Kolsay Lakes National Park. Known for its surreal Sunken Forest and cobalt-blue waters, Kaindy is one of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic natural wonders. The lake was formed after a 1911 earthquake triggered a landslide, submerging a forest of 400-year-old Schrenk’s spruce trees. Today, their ghostly trunks rise vertically from the water like ship masts, creating an otherworldly scene.

Kaindy Lake has earned a spot among Lonely Planet’s Top 20 Most Amazing Travel Destinations for its striking “underwater forest,” where you can still see the spruce needles perfectly preserved beneath the surface. The lake’s color changes with the light, making every view feel unique. Reaching Kaindy requires navigating rugged mountain roads - switch to 4x4 vehicles or, if you prefer, ride a horse or hike the short approach trail. Once there, stroll along the lakeshore, hike to nearby viewpoints for panoramic photos, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The setting is spectacular year-round, especially in autumn when the surrounding trees turn golden, or in winter when snow creates a magical contrast.

Next, continue your adventure to Charyn Canyon National Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” This dramatic 12-million-year-old canyon stretches along the Charyn River and showcases layers of colorful sedimentary rock shaped by wind and water over millennia. The highlight here is the Valley of Castles, a 2–3 km trail where towering rock formations resemble ancient fortresses and spires. As you descend into the canyon, the sheer cliffs rise dramatically on both sides, and the play of light and shadow makes for unforgettable photos.

At the canyon floor, relax by the Charyn River, a peaceful spot to enjoy your packed lunch or a snack while taking in the scale of the cliffs around you. The park spans 154 km and features a variety of landscapes - semi-deserts, lush riverbanks, and even pockets of forest - with snow-capped Tien Shan peaks visible in the distance. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot foxes, hares, eagles, or lizards along the way.

After exploring, drive onward to Almaty, where you’ll settle in for the evening.

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.

After breakfast, you will have some free time to explore Almaty. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to your next destination or to return home. Your 18-day 4 Stan tour (Uzbekistan Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan tour) concludes here. (Tip: Please inform us of your flight details so we can arrange your airport transfer accordingly.)

Tailored Experience in Central Asia: We can tailor Central Asia tour based on your preferred duration and interests.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Uzbekistan Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan tour. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!