5 Days Tajikistan Tour from Samarkand, Uzbekistan

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 to explore the northeastern part of Tajikistan. Your journey today takes you to Khujand, traveling through the impressive Anzob and Shakhristan tunnels along the way.

On the road, you will stop in Istaravshan (182km, 3-3.5 hours’ drive from Penjikent), often called the “City of Craftsmen.” Here, you’ll enjoy a short exploration of its historic sites, traditional handicrafts, and authentic local life. A visit to the lively Central Bazaar offers the chance to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of the town, browse stalls filled with fresh fruits and farm produce, and admire handmade items such as the city’s renowned knives and woodcarvings. You may even witness the process (forging, grinding, or handle-making) for knives and swords, and have opportunity to talk with local artisans.

Your journey continues with a visit to the Hazrati Shah Architectural Complex, whose origins date back to the 11th-12th centuries. Named after Hazrati Shah, brother of Qusam ibn Abbas (a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad), the complex includes the Hazrati Shah Mausoleum and the Khudayar Valami Mausoleum. As you wander through, take note of the beautifully carved wooden beams, doors, and columns, adorned with floral, geometric, and calligraphic motifs that showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of the region.

Before leaving Istaravshan, you’ll also catch a view of the ancient Mug Teppe Fort - one of the oldest sites in the area, stretching back over 2,500 years.

By late afternoon, continue your drive (75km) to Khujand, where you will check in to your hotel and spend the night.

Khujand, located in the far north of Tajikistan, is one of the country’s most historic cities. Its origins date back to the 4th century BC and it is believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great himself, who named it Alexandria Eschate - “The Furthest Alexandria.” With more than 2,500 years of history, Khujand was once a key stop on the Ancient Silk Road.

Today, Khujand is Tajikistan’s second-largest city and a fascinating blend of past and present. Set at the gateway to the fertile Fergana Valley, it stretches across both banks of the Syr Darya River and is surrounded by scenic mountains. The city is modern, clean, and lively, yet still retains the charm of a living ancient Silk Road hub.

After breakfast, let’s have full day exploration in Khujand. Begin with a visit to the Sheikh Muslihiddin Complex, the spiritual heart of the city. Its highlight is the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin, built in honor of the 12th-century poet, ruler, and religious leader. Admire the intricate brickwork patterns on the exterior and the beautifully painted ceilings, carved wooden details, and artistic ornamentation inside. You will often see locals for daily prayers, while flocks of pigeons gather peacefully in the square. Peaceful and relaxing here.

Next, walk a few steps to Panjshanbe Bazaar, one of the oldest and liveliest markets in Khujand. Catch the great chance to experience daily Tajik life here. Stroll through rows of stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, dried fruits, and spices. You will also find traditional Tajik clothing, colorful textiles, and handmade crafts. Even, you can try local favorites such as samsa (savory pastries), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and osh/plov (pilaf). The friendly and warm Tajik people will impress you.

This afternoon, explore the Khujand Fortress and Historical Museum of Khujand (Sughd Region Museum). Home to more than 15,000 artifacts, the museum showcases rare handwoven Tajik rugs, exquisite embroidery, pottery, household items, and traditional costumes. As you explore, trace Khujand’s history from the time of Alexander the Great to the modern era, and learn the legendary story of the local hero Timur Malik.

Don’t miss the striking marble mosaics depicting the life of Alexander of Macedon, who founded the most distant of his cities here in 329 BC, and see the statue of Timur Malik, celebrated for his courageous stand against the Mongol invasion in 1219–1220. Afterward, stroll around the fortress ruins, run your hands along the ancient brick walls, and imagine the fierce battles once fought here.

Later, visit a local Tajik family, where you’ll get an intimate look at traditional crafts. Watch as local women demonstrate beautiful Suzani embroidery or other intricate textile work - a living tradition passed down through generations.

Last, end your day with a leisurely walk along the scenic Syr Darya River promenade. As the sun sets, the golden glow reflects off the water, very beautiful.

Stay overnight in Khujand.

After a leisurely breakfast in Khujand, set out for the Tajikistan–Uzbekistan border, just an hour’s drive away. Walk across the border, say goodbye to your Tajik guide and driver, and meet your new Uzbek guide and driver on the other side. From here, continue for about 2 hours to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital and the largest city in Central Asia.

Now, it is time to say goodbye to end your Tajikistan tour. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to your next destination or escorted to the hotel in Tashkent.

(Tip: Please inform us of your flight details in advance so we can arrange your airport transfer accordingly.)

Optional Extension:

Tajikistan can be part of a larger Central Asia journey. You may also explore other highlights in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. We can customize a Central Asia tour based on your preferred duration and interests.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Tajikistan tour. We look forward to welcoming you back on your next journey!