Discover Uzbekistan: A Journey Through Time
Sep 28 - Oct 06, 2024

Embark on a 8-night, 9-day adventure through Uzbekistan, where the ancient Silk Road will reveal its and the vibrant Uzbeki culture will unfold every day.

This meticulously crafted journey promises a memorable exploration of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, blending history, architecture, and authentic local experiences.

Highlights:

Day 1: Welcome to Tashkent 

- Arrive in Tashkent and settle into a charming chain hotel.

- Orientation dinner featuring traditional Uzbek, Lebanese, and Moroccan cuisine.

Day 2: Tashkent Exploration

- Discover the spiritual heart of Tashkent at the Hezrati Imam Madrasa complex and see the World's Oldest Quran.
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- Wander through Chorsu Bazaar, teeming with local produce and vibrant culture.

- Explore the stunning Independence Square and visit Tashkent's thematic metro stations.

Day 3: Ancient Wonders of Samarkand

- Early morning train to Samarkand.

- Visit the majestic Gur-i-Amir, Amir Timur’s mausoleum.

- Evening sound and light show at the iconic Registan Square.

Day 4: Samarkand’s  Gems

- Morning visit to Siab Market and Shahi Zinda Mausoleum.

- Experience traditional carpet weaving and the famous Silk Paper Factory.

- Enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local Uzbek family.

Day 5: Journey to Bukhara

- High-speed train to Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

- Evening walking tour of Old Bukhara, including Poyi Kalon Ensemble and Lyabi Hauz.

Day 6: Exploring Bukhara’s Rich Heritage

- Visit the exquisite Summer Palace and explore the historic Ark Fortress.

- Discover the intricate beauty of Bolo Hauz and Samanid Tomb.

- Dinner in the Old City or at a Turkish Restaurant.

Day 7: Crossing the Deserts to Khiva

- Scenic but long bus journey through the Karakum and Kyzlkum deserts.

- Evening wander through the mesmerising Old City of Khiva.

Day 8: Unveiling Khiva

- Spend the morning exploring the Walled City, Itchan Kala.

- Late afternoon flight back to Tashkent.

Day 9: Tashkent options and  Farewell to Uzbekistan

- Leisurely morning with options to visit Alisher Navoi Theater, explore museums, or take a day trip to the picturesque Chimgan Mountains.

- Enjoy a farewell dinner at the Curry House.

Join us on this enchanting journey through Uzbekistan, where ancient history meets modern charm, and every day is filled with discovery and delight.

Secure your spot today; our first trip ( Sep 14-21, 2024) got SOLD in under 2 weeks

During this trip in Uzbekistan, you will savour meals at carefully chosen restaurants celebrated for their exquisite local cuisine.

Indulge in flavourful dishes such as plov prepared by an Uzbek family in Samarkand complemented by an array of delightful soups and crisp salads.

Every dining experience would be memorable.

Arrival & Transfer

  - Upon arrival in Tashkent, you will be greeted by the Unhotel representative and transferred to a modern hotel belonging to the Accor Group, known for its excellent amenities and convenient central location.

  - Arrival at the hotel by 18:00 hrs.

- Rest & Freshen Up

  - Take an hour to rest and freshen up at the hotel before heading out for the evening.

- Orientation Dinner

  - 19:30 hrs: Join your Tashkent guide for an orientation dinner at a popular local café, renowned for its extensive menu of traditional Uzbek, Lebanese, and Moroccan dishes, all prepared deliciously with vegetarian options available. 

Welcome to Tashkent! Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Silk Road. 🌟

  - After breakfast, leave the hotel by 10:00 am.
Don't leave without the essentials

- Pack a day bag with essentials - sunscreen, sunglasses, a bottle of water, cash for shopping, and a well-charged phone for capturing many photos. 📸🕶️🌞

- Hezrati Imam Madrasa Complex

  - Visit the spiritual heart of Tashkent for centuries, the Hezrati Imam Madrasa complex, also known as Hast Imam.

The primary attraction here is the Muyi Mubarak Library, which holds the oldest Quran in the world, the Uthman Quran, written in the Kuraish language on thick parchment. The museum also contains other treasures, including a hair believed to have belonged to the Prophet Muhammad and other ancient manuscripts. 📚🕌

  - Across the square, explore the Barak Khan Madrassah, remodelled in 2007 and now home to some of the best souvenir shops in Tashkent. 🛍️

- Old Tashkent

  - Explore the only remaining section of Old Tashkent on foot from the Madrassah. Walk through one of the mahallas, traditional neighbourhoods governed by a council of local old men.

These communities, with their mud-walled houses and narrow lanes, have endured over the centuries. 🏘️🚶

- Chorsu Bazaar

  - Drive to Chorsu Bazaar, a unique market that has stood at this location since the early days of the Silk Route. Shop for dried fruits, pottery, and other local souvenirs. 🍇🥜

- Independence Square

  - Visit Independence Square, formerly known as Lenin Square until September 1991.

After a monument to Lenin was dismantled, a massive globe monument of Independence of Uzbekistan was erected. The square is the central square of Tashkent and hosts celebrations and military parades on special events and public holidays. 🌍🇺🇿

- Metro Hopping

  - End the evening with a metro hopping tour, visiting some of the prettiest and thematically interesting metro stations in the underground.

The most famed is the Cosmonaut station, themed after space exploration, with architectural designs inspired by the Milky Way and blue ceramic murals of space-related figures.

Built in 1977, the Tashkent Metro is the oldest subway in Central Asia, with each of the 48 stations designed after a particular theme. 🚇✨

Highlights

- Hezrati Imam Madrasa Complex: Discover the rich spiritual and historical significance of Tashkent's spiritual heart, housing the oldest Quran in the world and other ancient manuscripts.

- Old Tashkent Walk: Experience the traditional mahalla neighbourhoods, with their enduring cultural and architectural heritage.

- Chorsu Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, shopping for local delicacies and souvenirs.

- Independence Square: Explore the central square of Tashkent, a hub of national pride and public celebrations.

- Metro Hopping: Marvel at the beautifully designed metro stations, each with its unique theme and historical significance.

Enjoy a full day of exploring the vibrant history, culture, and everyday life of Tashkent! 🌟

Early Breakfast

  - Start your day with an early breakfast at 6:45 AM at the hotel. 🍳🌅

Departure

  - Depart from the hotel at 7:30 AM to catch the Afrosiyab high-speed train to Samarkand. 🚆

Train Journey

  - 8:30 AM: Board the Afrosiyab train for a scenic journey to Samarkand, which takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

  - Enjoy the beautiful views of the Zarafshan Valley as you travel.

Arrival in Samarkand

  - Arrive at Samarkand Station and meet your local guide.

  - Begin sightseeing immediately upon disembarking the train. 🕌

- Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

  - Visit Gur-e-Amir, the mausoleum of Amir Timur. This architectural masterpiece from the early 15th century features stunning tilework and a beautiful dome, especially impressive at night.

  - Take a stroll along University Boulevard and capture photos with the commanding statue of Amir Timur. 📸🏛️

Hotel Check-In

  - Check into a comfortable and modern hotel at 2:00 PM. 🏨

  - Take an afternoon nap to recharge for the evening activities.

- Registan Square

  - 4:30 PM: Drive to Registan Square, a grand ensemble of buildings that includes the 15th-century Ulugh Beg Madrasa, the 17th-century Tillya Kari Madrasa-Mosque, the 17th-century Shir Dor Madrasa, and the 18th-century market building called Chor Su.

  - Watch the mesmerizing sound and light show at Registan Square, showcasing the grandeur of Islamic architecture. 🌟🏰

- Dinner

  - Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring live music, providing a delightful end to your day of exploration. 🎶🍽️

- Overnight Stay

  - Overnight stay at a well-appointed chain hotel in Samarkand, offering modern amenities and comfort.

Highlights

- Train Journey: Experience the high-speed train ride through the scenic Zarafshan Valley to the historic city of Samarkand.

- Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Explore the stunning mausoleum of Amir Timur, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture from the early 15th century.

- Registan Square: Marvel at the grandeur of Registan Square with its ensemble of historic buildings and enjoy a spectacular sound and light show.

- Dinner with Live Music: Relish a delightful dinner at a local restaurant accompanied by live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Samarkand.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the ancient city of Samarkand, a true gem on the Silk Route. 🌟

- 10:00 AM: After breakfast, at the hotel begin your day with a visit to the historic Siab Market, the bustling heart of Samarkand's trading routes.

Siab Market is renowned for its sweets, fruits, and souvenirs. Don't miss out on the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice and explore the vibrant fruit market 🍊.

- Late Morning:  Explore the Shahi Zinda Mausoleum, a mystical necropolis known as the “Living Saint’s” mausoleum.

This site is one of Samarkand’s most Instagrammed spots, adorned with stunning majolica in lapis and turquoise.

The ensemble consists of 11 mausoleums of Timur’s family and teachers built between the 14th and 15th centuries 📸.

- Midday: Visit a traditional Samarkand Bukhara carpet-making workshop. Discover the intricate art of carpet weaving in this family-operated workshop that has kept the tradition alive for generations.

- 2:00 PM: Take a well-deserved rest in the afternoon, rejuvenate with a 2-hour break.

- Late Afternoon: Head to the Silk Paper Factory, where you’ll learn about the renowned silk paper from Samarkand and why it is highly valued around the world 📜.

- Early Evening: Enjoy an early dinner at a local Uzbek family home. Experience authentic Uzbek hospitality as three generations of women cook and serve you homemade vegetarian plov, soup, salad, and dessert.

This heartwarming meal offers a taste of genuine family traditions.

- Evening:  End your day being mesmerised by Samarkand’s Eternal City, an open-air museum that brings Uzbekistan's rich 3,000-year history to life through animated shows and architectural models. 

Overnight: Stay at a comfortable, modern hotel known for its  service and amenities, ensuring a restful night 🌙.

Highlights:

- Explore the historic Siab Market and sample local delicacies

- Visit the beautifully adorned Shahi Zinda Mausoleum

- Discover the art of carpet weaving at a traditional workshop

- Learn about the world-famous Samarkand silk paper

- Enjoy an authentic Uzbek dinner at a local family home

- Experience the captivating history of Samarkand’s Eternal City

This day is packed with cultural experiences, local interactions, and historical insights, making it a memorable part of your journey through Samarkand.

- 9:30 AM: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then check out of your charming boutique hotel. Ensure you have all your essentials as we embark on our next adventure to Bukhara.

- 10:45 AM: Board the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Bukhara. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Uzbek countryside. The train ride takes approximately 1.5 hours 🚄.

- 12:30 PM: Arrive in Bukhara, a city with a rich history spanning over 5,000 years. Check into a cosy hotel known for its comfortable rooms and warm hospitality. Rest and freshen up for 1.5 hours.

- Afternoon rest and rejuvenation at the hotel. Take this time to relax and prepare for an evening of exploration.

- Start your evening with a walking tour of Old Bukhara. This tour is a highlight, offering an immersive experience in the city’s rich history and culture.

Visit a traditional smithy to witness the fading craft traditions of Central Asia.

Explore a historic hamam (only for men) and get a glimpse of how Silk Road traders relaxed after their long journeys. 🍵

- Stroll through the narrow lanes and bustling markets of Bukhara. Stop by a restored 16th-century caravanserai for a cool drink, enjoy an ice cream while listening to jazz, or learn about Silk Road entertainment at a world-famous puppeteer’s workshop.

-  Visit the Nodir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautiful structure created in 1623. Explore the Poyi Kalon Ensemble, the religious heart of Bukhara, consisting of the Minaret Kalon (12th c.), Kalyan Mosque (12th c.), and Miri Arab Madrasah (16th c). 🕌

- Continue to the Kosh-Madrasah Ensemble and the vibrant Lyabi Hauz area.

The atmosphere around Lyabi Hauz is the highlight of Old Bukhara.
Don’t forget to take a photo with the statue of Mulla Nasiruddin, one of the most famous Bukharans, which has become a landmark in the old city.

- Evening :  Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Lyabi Hauz or Joy Chaikhana. Savour the delicious Uzbek cuisine and soak in the lively ambiance of the city 🌟.

Overnight: Stay at a well-appointed hotel in Bukhara, offering comfortable accommodations and modern amenities to ensure a restful night.

Highlights:

- Experience the high-speed Afrosiyob train journey to Bukhara

- Explore the historic sites and vibrant markets of Old Bukhara

- Visit traditional craft workshops and a historic hamam

- Enjoy the lively atmosphere around Lyabi Hauz

- Capture memorable photos with the statue of Mulla Nasiruddin

- Savour a delightful dinner at a local restaurant

- 10:00 AM: Begin your day with a visit to the Summer Palace in Bukhara, also known as Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace.

This stunning palace was the countryside residence of the Bukhara emirs.

The palace showcases a unique blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles, with Bukhara master builders trained in Russia. The final parts of the palace were built during the reign of the last Bukhara emir, Alim-Khan.

The palace was poetically named after his wife, who died young, meaning ‘star-like and moonlike palace’. Explore the fascinating 'Suzani' and Costume Museum inside the palace. 🌟🏰

- 12:30 PM: Return to the hotel and enjoy some leisure time in the afternoon. Relax, recharge, and prepare for an exciting evening of exploration.

- 4:00 PM:  Set out to visit the Ark Fortress, an ancient citadel that was the residence of Bukhara’s emirs. This massive structure stands as a reminder to the city’s rich history.

Next, visit the beautiful Bolo Hauz Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.

Continue to Job’s Well (Chashme Ayyub), a revered site believed to have healing properties.

End your afternoon with a visit to the exquisite Samanid Tomb, one of Central Asia’s oldest Islamic monuments, standing amidst a Soviet-style entertainment park. 🕌🏰

- 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner in the Old City or at a delightful Turkish restaurant close to the hotel. Savour the rich flavours of local and Turkish cuisine in a charming setting. 🍽️

Overnight:  Stay at the same comfortable hotel in Bukhara, ensuring a restful night after a day filled with historical and cultural exploration.

Highlights:

- Explore the Summer Palace (Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace) and its unique blend of architectural styles

- Discover the 'Suzani' and Costume Museum within the palace

- Visit the historic Ark Fortress and the beautiful Bolo Hauz Mosque

- Experience the serene ambiance of Job’s Well (Chashme Ayyub)

- Marvel at the exquisite Samanid Tomb, one of Central Asia’s oldest Islamic monuments

- Enjoy a delightful dinner in the Old City or at a nearby Turkish restaurant

- 10:00 AM: Begin your adventurous journey through the Karakum and Kyzylkum deserts.

Be prepared for a long bus ride without internet connectivity for about 3 hours.

This scenic journey takes approximately 6 hours, with the bus making two comfort stops along the way. Ensure you have your favourite snacks and refreshments to enjoy during the ride. 🏜️🚌

- 4:00 PM: Arrive in Khiva and check into a charming hotel located within the walled city. Take some time to freshen up and relax after the long journey. 🏨

- 6:00 PM: In the evening, embark on a leisurely wander through the enchanting Old City of Khiva. Experience the city’s timeless beauty and immerse yourself in its ‘lost in time’ atmosphere.

Explore the narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and vibrant local life. 🌆

- 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at a delightful restaurant inside the walled city, offering a unique dining experience with panoramic views of Khiva’s stunning landmarks.

Savour traditional Uzbek cuisine in this historic setting. 🍽️

Overnight: Stay at a comfortable hotel within the walled city of Khiva, ensuring a restful night in this magical location.

Highlights:

- Travel through the Karakum and Kyzylkum deserts, experiencing the unique landscapes and serene desert beauty

- Enjoy a scenic bus ride with comfort stops and time to relax

- Arrive in Khiva and check into a charming hotel within the historic walled city

- Wander through the enchanting Old City of Khiva, soaking in its timeless charm and historic architecture

- Delight in a dinner with panoramic views inside the walled city

- Morning: Begin your morning exploring Itchan Kala, the historic Walled City of Khiva.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is an ancient oasis, surrounded by impressive 10-meter-high brick walls. Wander through the narrow streets, marvel at the intricate architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this last resting place of caravans before they ventured into the desert towards Iran. 🕌🏛️

Visit key landmarks such as the Kunya-Ark Citadel, the Kalta Minor Minaret, and the Juma Mosque with its 218 wooden columns. Capture the essence of Khiva through photographs and personal experiences. 📸

-  Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery within the walled city, sampling traditional dishes and soaking in the unique atmosphere. 🍴

- Flight to Tashkent : Transfer to the airport for your late afternoon flight to Tashkent. Board either Silkavia or Uzbekistan Airways, depending on the available flight operations. ✈️

- Arrive in Tashkent and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to rest and freshen up before dinner. 🏨

-  Enjoy dinner at a traditional Uzbeki restaurant in Tashkent. 🍽️

Overnight: Stay at a comfortable hotel in Tashkent, ensuring a restful night after your journey back home .

Highlights:

- Explore the historic Itchan Kala, the Walled City of Khiva, with its rich history and stunning architecture

- Visit key landmarks such as the Kunya-Ark Citadel, Kalta Minor Minaret, and Juma Mosque

- Experience the unique atmosphere of Khiva's ancient streets and vibrant culture

- Enjoy a traditional Uzbeki dinner in Tashkent after your flight

- Relax and unwind at a comfortable hotel in Tashkent

- Morning:  Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel. Take this time to pack up and prepare for your journey back to India. 🧳

- Optional Activities:

  - Option 1 : Visit Alisher Navoi Theater and Ballet:  
Depending on the programme schedule, you may have the opportunity to watch a ballet or opera production. The guide can assist you in purchasing tickets for a truly cultural experience. 🎭

  - Option 2 : Explore Tashkent's Museums:
Choose to visit one of the three major museums in Tashkent. Delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. 🏛️

  - Option 3: Day Trip to Chimgan Mountains:  
Embark on a scenic road trip to the Chimgan Mountains, located about an hour northeast of Tashkent.

Drive through picturesque surroundings with local villages, gardens, and streams as you head towards Ugam Chatkal National Park, also known as Uzbek Switzerland.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Tien-Shan highland woods and a unique ecosystem with rare and endangered species. A visit to Amirsoy provides a glimpse into this unique ecosystem. 🌲🗻

- Evening: Farewell dinner in Tashkent

At Curry House, an Indian restaurant in Tashkent. Savour the familiar flavours of Indian cuisine as you reminisce about your incredible journey through Uzbekistan. 🍛

Fly Indigo 

6E 1806

05 October 1:00 AM flight to Delhi 

Highlights:

- Leisurely morning to pack and prepare for departure

- Optional visit to Alisher Navoi Theater and Ballet for a cultural performance

- Explore one of Tashkent's major museums

- Or enjoy a picturesque day trip to the Chimgan Mountains and Ugam Chatkal National Park

- Dinner at Curry House, an Indian restaurant in Tashkent