Kunya-Urgench, once a thriving hub of trade and culture, stands as a testament to the rich history of the Khorezm region. This ancient city, strategically located at the crossroads of trade routes connecting China and Europe, flourished between the 10th and 13th centuries. As the capital of the powerful Khorezmshah State, Kunya-Urgench was a center of commerce, religion, and learning, attracting scholars and traders from across the Muslim world. Its bustling bazaars, grand mosques, and prestigious madrasas were symbols of a golden era, where life thrived and knowledge flourished.
However, the city’s fortune changed dramatically over the centuries. The Mongol invasion led by Genghis Khan brought devastation, followed by further conquests under Tamerlane. By the 16th century, the city’s decline was sealed when the Amu Darya River changed its course, transforming Kunya-Urgench into a deserted relic of its former glory. Despite these challenges, the city has preserved its unique Islamic architectural monuments, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Dashoguz, where your guide and driver will take you on a 5-6 hour exploration of the Kunya-Urgench historical site, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes visits to the stunning mausoleums of Turabek-Khanum, Sultan Tekesh, Sultan Il-Arslan, Najmuddin-Kubra, and Sultan Ali. You will also discover the towering Kutlug-Timur Minaret, an architectural marvel, and the mystical Kyrk Molla Hill. After immersing yourself in the ancient history of Kunya-Urgench, you will return to Dashoguz and visit the History Museum of the Khorezm region before being transferred back to your hotel. This tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the enduring legacy of a once-great civilization.
Duration: 5-6 hours
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $280 | $160 | $130 | $100 | $80 |
Transportation throughout the tour Local English speaking guide Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary
Any Private Expenses Lunch Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
The Kunya-Urgench tour was an unforgettable experience. The site is rich in history, and each monument tells its own story. The highlight for me was the Kutlug-Timur Minaret, which stands as a testament to the city’s past grandeur. Our guide shared so many interesting details about the rise and fall of Kunya-Urgench, making the tour both educational and engaging. I also enjoyed the quiet reflection at Kyrk Molla Hill, which offered a beautiful view of the surrounding area. The trip to the History Museum of Khorezm was the perfect way to conclude the day. I would recommend this tour to anyone looking to delve deep into the history of Turkmenistan.
Walking through Kunya-Urgench felt like stepping back in time. The stories of the city’s former glory and its subsequent decline were both fascinating and sobering. The mausoleums, especially those of Sultan Il-Arslan and Najmuddin-Kubra, were beautifully preserved, and the detail in the architecture was breathtaking. I was amazed at how well the history of this once-great city has been preserved. The tour was well-organized, and the guide was very knowledgeable. The visit to the Khorezm History Museum was a great addition, providing a broader context to the significance of Kunya-Urgench. This tour is a must for history buffs!
Kunya-Urgench is a hidden gem. The historical significance of this site is overwhelming, and it’s fascinating to think about how important this city once was. I was particularly struck by the intricate designs on the mausoleums and the sheer size of the Kutlug-Timur Minaret. Our guide was fantastic, providing us with a wealth of knowledge about the Islamic architecture and the various rulers who shaped the city. The stop at the History Museum of Khorezm was informative and tied the whole experience together. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in exploring the lesser-known historical sites of Central Asia.
The Kunya-Urgench tour exceeded all my expectations. The mausoleums of Turabek-Khanum and Sultan Tekesh were architectural marvels that left me in awe. I was moved by the history of the city, especially learning about its rise and fall. The guide provided detailed explanations that really brought the ancient city to life. The visit to Kyrk Molla Hill was a serene experience, offering a peaceful contrast to the grand structures we had seen earlier. This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Turkmenistan. The history here is palpable, and the preservation of these ancient structures is commendable.
Visiting Kunya-Urgench was an incredible journey through time. The history here is so rich, and the architecture of the mausoleums is simply stunning. I was particularly fascinated by the Kutlug-Timur Minaret, which towers over the site and offers a glimpse into the past. Our guide was knowledgeable and made the experience even more enriching with stories about the city’s golden age and its decline. It’s hard to believe that this once-thriving city is now a quiet, historical site. The trip to the Khorezm History Museum was a perfect way to end the tour, giving us deeper insight into the region’s past. Highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in history and culture!