Embark on a journey through the heart of Tajikistan with our two-day tour from Samarkand to Penjikent and the Seven Lakes. This adventure offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, giving you the opportunity to explore one of Central Asia’s most fascinating regions.
Your journey begins in Penjikent, a city steeped in history. Once a thriving Sogdian settlement, it was home to great poets, including the famous Rudaki, considered the father of Persian literature. Explore the ruins of ancient Penjikent, abandoned in the 8th century after the Arab conquest, and walk through the bustling modern city where the legacy of its past is still alive in its vibrant bazaar, mosque, and the beautiful mausoleum of Rudaki.
On the second day, venture into the natural beauty of Tajikistan, starting with a visit to Sarazm. As the first UNESCO World Heritage site in the country, Sarazm offers a glimpse into an ancient settlement that dates back over 3,500 years. From there, continue your journey to the Seven Lakes, nestled in the stunning Fann Mountains. Each lake has its own unique charm, with vibrant colors reflecting the surrounding scenery. Enjoy a peaceful picnic beside one of the lakes before heading back to Samarkand.
This two-day tour offers the perfect combination of cultural discovery and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to explore Tajikistan’s treasures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, this tour has something for everyone. Book your adventure today and immerse yourself in the fascinating sights of Tajikistan!
Your adventure begins with an early morning transfer from Samarkand to the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border at Jartepa, a distance of 50 km (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival at the border, you will complete the customs and passport control procedures on both sides. Once cleared, our local guide and driver from Tajikistan will meet you and escort you to Penjikent, a charming city that is about 70 km away. En route, we will make a brief stop at Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a thriving settlement dating back over 3,500 years. This ancient city showcases remarkable evidence of early urban planning and high levels of development during its time.
Upon arrival in Penjikent, your guided sightseeing begins with a visit to the Rudaki Museum, dedicated to the famed Persian poet and one of the most influential figures in Persian literature. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to explore the local bazaar, a bustling market that offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the city’s inhabitants. Next, visit the mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture that plays a key role in the local community.
After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, you will have a chance to relax before heading to the ancient ruins of Penjikent. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the modern city, these ruins are all that remain of the original Penjikent, a once-thriving Sogdian city that dates back to the 5th century. The city was destroyed by the Arab conquerors in the 8th century, but the remnants offer a fascinating glimpse into its rich past. After the day’s exploration, you will check into your hotel for a restful evening.
After breakfast, you will begin your journey towards the Seven Lakes, located about 80 km to the west of Penjikent, in the stunning Fann Mountains. The Seven Lakes are a series of interconnected high-altitude lakes, each with its own unique color. From calming turquoise to rich purple, the lakes offer a breathtaking variety of natural beauty. The journey to these lakes will take you through rugged mountain landscapes, with views that will leave you in awe of the area’s pristine beauty.
Upon reaching the Seven Lakes, you will have the chance to visit each of the lakes, marveling at their vibrant hues and tranquil surroundings. A picnic will be arranged at the final lake, Khoazorchashma, where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the area. After lunch, take some time to explore the surroundings or simply relax by the water.
In the late afternoon, you will begin your return journey to the Jartepa border crossing, a 130 km drive back through the mountains. After completing the customs and passport control procedures on both sides of the border, you will be met by your driver on the Uzbekistan side and transferred back to Samarkand. Upon arrival in Samarkand, you will be dropped off at your hotel or private residence, marking the end of your two-day tour to Penjikent and the Seven Lakes.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist | $730 | $400 | $360 | $340 | $310 |
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with local guides Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Full board (2 lunches and 1 dinner) Tour leader to accompany the group
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa
I had an unforgettable experience on the 2-day Penjikent and Seven Lakes tour from Samarkand, organized by Shahina Travel. The journey was seamless, starting with the smooth border crossing at Jartepa, where our guide was waiting for us with a warm welcome. The first day in Penjikent was fascinating, with a deep dive into the history of this ancient city, especially the visit to the Rudaki Museum and the impressive ancient ruins that date back to the 5th century. The next day’s adventure to the Seven Lakes was a highlight, with each lake offering a unique, stunning color. The natural beauty of the Fann Mountains made it even more special. The picnic at Khoazorchashma Lake was an excellent touch, allowing us to relax and enjoy the surroundings. A huge thanks to Shahina Travel for organizing such a well-planned and memorable tour. Highly recommended!