The «Golden Road to Samarkand» tour offers an enthralling 10-day journey through Uzbekistan, inviting travelers to uncover the rich historical and cultural tapestry of this Central Asian gem. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the bustling modernity of Tashkent to the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, ending with a captivating detour to Shakhrisabz. Steeped in the legacy of the Silk Road, these cities are adorned with architectural masterpieces, vibrant bazaars, and deeply ingrained traditions that have flourished over centuries.
Your adventure begins in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s sprawling capital, where you’ll explore the juxtaposition of modernity and tradition. Discover the historical Khast-Imam Complex, home to the revered Quran of Caliph Uthman, and wander through Chorsu Bazaar, a lively market brimming with local produce and crafts. Enjoy a ride on the Tashkent Metro, known for its elaborate stations, and marvel at the city’s architectural gems, including Amir Timur Square.
The journey continues with a morning flight to Urgench, followed by a transfer to Khiva, a city frozen in time. Spend the day exploring the Itchan-Kala Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its stunning madrasahs, mosques, and minarets. From Khiva, travel through the vast Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara, another Silk Road treasure. Here, you’ll delve into the heart of Islamic architecture, visiting the Ark Fortress, the Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the iconic Kalyan Minaret.
In Bukhara, immerse yourself further in the city’s heritage with visits to the summer residence of the last emir, Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, and the mausoleums of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi and Chor-Bakr. Afterward, journey to Gijduvan to witness traditional ceramics making, where you’ll engage in hands-on activities, including a cooking class and pottery workshop.
Your exploration continues in Samarkand, where the majestic Registan Square and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum await. Experience the grandeur of the Ulugbek Observatory and the serene Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. A day trip to Shakhrisabz provides insight into the legacy of Timur with visits to the Ak-Saray Palace and the Dor-us Saodat Complex.
Returning to Samarkand, delve into the history at the Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel, and witness the traditional craft of Samarkand paper making in Konigil village. Finally, travel back to Tashkent for a farewell, with time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of this Silk Road odyssey.
Arrive in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s bustling capital. A Shahina Travel driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Check-in will be available by noon. Start your exploration of Tashkent with a visit to the Khast-Imam Complex, which houses the revered Quran of Caliph Uthman. Wander through Chorsu Bazaar, a lively market filled with local goods. Experience the Tashkent Metro, renowned for its ornate stations. Conclude your city tour at Amir Timur Square and the Navoi Theater. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Early in the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Urgench (1 hour 40 minutes). From Urgench, travel to Khiva (30 km, 35 minutes) and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the Itchan-Kala Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit significant sites such as the Mukhammad Aminkhan Madrasah, Kalta-Minor Minaret, and the Juma Mosque. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Khiva at your own pace. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5 hours
Depart from Khiva and embark on a scenic drive to Bukhara through the vast Kyzylkum Desert (480 km, 7-8 hours). This historic route was once frequented by Silk Road caravans transporting goods across the desert. Arrive in Bukhara in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and rest after the journey.
Note: Due to the basic facilities along the route, consider arranging a packed lunch in advance.
Duration of travel: 7-8 hours
Begin your exploration of Bukhara with a walking tour through the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover key landmarks such as the Lyabi-Khauz Complex, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and the Kalyan Minaret. Visit the Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the historical madrasahs. Enjoy an overnight stay in Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Continue your exploration of Bukhara with visits to Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir, and the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi. Discover the Chor-Bakr Necropolis, an ancient burial site. Enjoy the rest of the day free for personal exploration or relaxation. Overnight stay in Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Depart Bukhara in the morning and head to Gijduvan (48 km, 1 hour). Visit the Gijduvan Ceramics Center, where you can tour the workshops, participate in a pottery master class, and enjoy a traditional Uzbek cooking class. Savor your homemade meal for lunch. Afterward, travel to Samarkand (233 km, 3.5 hours). Check into your hotel in Samarkand and relax for the evening.
Duration of ceramics activities: 2-3 hours
Meet your guide and driver at the hotel to begin your exploration of Samarkand. Visit the iconic Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and the bustling Siab Bazaar. Marvel at the Ulugbek Observatory, the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Timur. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Depart Samarkand and drive to Shakhrisabz (90 km, 2 hours). Explore the city with visits to the Mausoleum of Jakhongir, the remains of Ak-Saray Palace, and the Dor-us Saodat Complex. Return to Samarkand in the afternoon for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6 hours
Check out from your hotel by noon and continue your sightseeing in Samarkand. Visit the Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel. Drive to Konigil village to observe the traditional art of making Samarkand paper from mulberry. Enjoy some free time with a car and driver at your disposal. In the late afternoon, transfer to the railway station for the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Tashkent (2 hours 10 minutes). Arrive in Tashkent and check into your hotel for the night.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Check out from your hotel by noon. Spend your remaining time exploring Tashkent at your leisure. Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your departure. End of the tour.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist | $3300 | $1900 | $1600 | $1470 | $1420 |
* rates based on 4* hotel accommodation. Rates based on 3* hotels will be around $200 less of the rates above. Rates based on 5* hotels will be around $300 more of the rates above.
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with a local guide in each city Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights 9 nights hotel accommodation (shared double/twin room) Ticket for high-speed train Tashkent-Samarkand Economy class ticket for flight Urgench-Tashken Master classes with lunch in Gijduvan
Tour leader to accompany travellers for the whole period of the tour Consular fees for Uzbekistan tourist visa Any Private Expenses Lunches, Dinners Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
I am incredibly grateful to Shahina Travel for their outstanding job on the Golden Road to Samarkand tour. The seamless itinerary took us through the most fascinating sites of Uzbekistan, from the ancient city of Bukhara to the majestic mausoleums in Samarkand. The local guides were insightful and engaging, and the logistics were perfectly managed. Shahina Travel made our experience truly exceptional with their dedication and expertise. Thank you for an unforgettable journey!
A heartfelt thank you to Shahina Travel for organizing such a flawless Golden Road to Samarkand tour. The trip was a captivating journey through Uzbekistan’s history and culture. Highlights included the awe-inspiring Registan Square and the charming streets of Khiva. Shahina Travel’s attention to detail and exceptional guides made the experience unforgettable. Every aspect of the tour was handled with professionalism and care. Highly recommend their services for anyone looking to explore Uzbekistan!
An incredible journey through Uzbekistan’s most iconic locations! The tour offered an excellent mix of historical sites and local experiences. The drive through the Kyzylkum Desert was breathtaking, and the visit to Samarkand’s Registan Square was awe-inspiring. The highlight was the hands-on pottery experience in Gijduvan. Every detail was well-managed, and the local guides were friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended for history and culture enthusiasts!
We thoroughly enjoyed the Golden Road to Samarkand tour. The blend of historical exploration and cultural immersion was perfect. The visit to Shakhrisabz was a standout moment with its historical ruins and grand mausoleum. The accommodations were comfortable, and the meals were delightful, especially the traditional Uzbek pilau. The whole trip was well-paced and thoughtfully arranged. A memorable adventure!
The 10-day Golden Road to Samarkand tour was a mesmerizing journey through Uzbekistan’s rich history. Each city, from Khiva to Samarkand, revealed its unique charm and historical significance. Highlights included the majestic Registan Square and the intriguing ceramic workshops in Gijduvan. Our guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experience even more engaging. Highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting an immersive cultural adventure!