Silk Road Journey: Explore Kyrgyzstan, China, and Uzbekistan

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304
19 Days / 18 Nights
Availability : from May to October
Bishkek
Kashgar, Tashkent
Min Age : 14+
Max People : 10
Tour Details

Route in brief:

Bishkek – Burana – Issyk-Kul – Karakol – Jety-Oguz – Bokonbaevo – Kochkor – Tash-Rabat – Torugart – Kashgar – Irkyshtam – Osh – Fergana – Tashkent – Urgench – Khiva – Bukhara – Samarkand – Tashkent

Step into a world where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes on our ‘Silk Road Journey: Explore Kyrgyzstan, China, and Uzbekistan’. This 19-day adventure invites you to traverse some of the most remarkable locations along the historic Silk Road, offering an immersive experience that will leave you with cherished memories.

Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, where you’ll explore its charming parks and lively markets. From there, venture to the stunning Lake Issyk-Kul, a majestic mountain lake that beckons with its crystalline waters and natural beauty. You’ll continue your adventure in Karakol, where you can marvel at the unique wooden Russian Orthodox church and the exquisite Dungan Mosque. Enjoy an evening of folk music while savoring authentic Kyrgyz cuisine.

As you journey through the breathtaking Jety-Oguz gorge and encounter the striking red rock formations, you’ll have the chance to stay in traditional yurt camps, embracing the nomadic lifestyle of Central Asia. Cross the Torugart Pass into China, where the vibrant city of Kashgar awaits. Experience the world’s largest outdoor market and discover the cultural richness of this unique region.

The tour continues into Uzbekistan, where you’ll be enchanted by the historical cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Each city boasts magnificent architectural marvels, vibrant bazaars, and deep-rooted traditions that harken back to the days of the Silk Road. Visit the breathtaking Registan Square and the iconic Bibi Khanum Mosque, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Central Asian history and culture.

Join us on this unforgettable Silk Road journey, where you will create lasting memories as you uncover the secrets of Kyrgyzstan, China, and Uzbekistan. Whether you’re an adventurer, history enthusiast, or culture lover, this tour is the perfect blend of exploration and discovery.

Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Bishkek

Arrive at Manas International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Bishkek. Once settled in, embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. Visit prominent attractions such as Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Philharmonic Hall, the Statue of Manas, Victory Square, and the vibrant Osh Bazaar. After lunch, continue your exploration with a trip to Ala-Archa National Park, located about 40 km from Bishkek. Enjoy a leisurely hike through the stunning alpine gorge, where the fast-flowing Ala-Archa River runs alongside snow-capped peaks and lush forested slopes. Your day concludes with a return to Bishkek for an overnight stay.

Day 2Bishkek to Issyk-Kul Lake

After breakfast, depart for Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world, situated 260 km from Bishkek. En route, stop to visit the Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun, which was part of the Karakhanid state. Enjoy lunch at a local Kyrgyz family’s home, where you’ll also witness a demonstration of traditional yurt assembly. Upon arrival at Lake Issyk-Kul, check into your hotel on the northern shore and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3Explore Karakol

This morning, head to Karakol, a charming town located near the eastern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. First, stop in Cholpon-Ata to explore an open-air gallery featuring ancient petroglyphs that date back to between 500 BC and 100 AD, depicting local wildlife and scenes of daily life. Continue your journey in Karakol by visiting its remarkable wooden Russian Orthodox church and the Dungan Mosque, a unique architectural marvel. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the life of the famous explorer, Nikolai Prezhvalsky, at the museum dedicated to him. Enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by folk music before settling in for the night.

Day 4: Jety-Oguz Adventure

In the morning, travel to the stunning Jety-Oguz Gorge, known for its striking red sandstone formations resembling seven bulls. After a scenic picnic amidst the natural beauty, settle in for an overnight stay in a cozy yurt camp, where you’ll experience the authentic nomadic lifestyle.

Day 5: Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul

After breakfast, begin your journey along the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul towards Kochkor village. Stop at Bokonbaevo to witness an impressive eagle hunting demonstration, showcasing a traditional Kyrgyz sport. You will enjoy dinner and spend the night at a local homestay, immersing yourself in the warm hospitality of the Kyrgyz people.

Day 6: Visit Tash-Rabat

Following breakfast, visit a local felt carpet workshop to learn about the art of crafting Kyrgyz carpets. Next, make your way to Tash-Rabat, a historic caravanserai that served as a refuge for travelers along the Great Silk Road in the 11th century. This unique stone structure stands out for its significance and beauty. Enjoy an overnight stay in yurts, surrounded by the stunning mountain landscapes.

Day 7: Crossing to Kashgar

After breakfast, make an early start for the Torugart Pass, the border crossing between Kyrgyzstan and China. Upon arrival at the border, meet your Chinese guide and drive to the bustling city of Kashgar, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel.

Day 8: Discover Kashgar

Enjoy a full-day city tour of Kashgar, where you’ll visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, and the Tomb of Yusuf Khass Hajib. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich Islamic heritage of the region. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Kashgar's Sunday Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kashgar’s famous Sunday Bazaar, regarded as the largest outdoor market in the world. Browse through countless stalls filled with local goods, handicrafts, and delicious food. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation

Day 10: Kashgar to Osh

Start your day with an early breakfast before departing for the Irkyshtam border crossing. As you journey, soak in the breathtaking views of the Pamir Mountains, with their majestic snow-capped peaks and lush summer pastures. After crossing the border, continue your journey to Osh, a city steeped in legend and history. Once in Osh, check into your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Explore Osh

Begin your exploration of Osh, a city believed to be founded by King Solomon. Visit the renowned Suleiman-Too (Solomon’s Mountain) and stroll through the local bazaar, which has served as a marketplace since the Silk Road era. Overnight at your accommodation in Osh.

Day 12: From Osh to Fergana Valley

After breakfast, head towards the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border at Dostuk. Complete border formalities before venturing towards Fergana Valley. Along the way, visit Andijan and Kuva, then stop in Margilan to explore the Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah, now home to skilled artisans producing beautiful handmade carpets and silk. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the traditional market and visit the Yodgorlik Silk Factory, where you’ll witness the traditional process of silk production featuring unique Ikat patterns. Finally, visit Kokand to see the Khudoyar-Khan Palace and Jami Mosque before driving to Tashkent, arriving late in the evening for an overnight stay.

Day 13: Tashkent City Tour

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Visit the historic Khast-Imom Complex, home to the famed Quran of Caliph Uthman. Continue to the Old City, where you can explore the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tilla Sheikh Mosque, and the Mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi. Don’t miss a trip to the bustling Chorsu Bazaar. In the afternoon, take the Tashkent Metro to visit the city center, including Amir Temur Square and Independence Square. Later, take a flight to Urgench, then transfer to your hotel in Khiva for the night.

Day 14: Discover Khiva

Spend the day exploring Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through the enchanting Ichan-Kala Fortress and visit key landmarks, including Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah, and Kalta Minor. Take time to explore the Juma Mosque and the Toshkhovli Palace, concluding your day at the Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum. Spend the night at your hotel in Khiva.

Day 15: Khiva to Bukhara

In the morning, leave Khiva for Bukhara, traveling approximately 480 km through the vast Kyzylkum Desert along the historical Silk Road. Stop along the way to enjoy stunning views of the Amudarya River before arriving in Bukhara late in the afternoon. Check into your hotel and rest after a long journey.

Day 16: Bukhara Sightseeing

Embark on a walking tour of Bukhara’s Old City, guided by an expert who will help you uncover the rich history of this ancient city. Visit iconic sites such as the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and Kalyan Minaret, as well as the Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the stunning Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum. Spend your evening at leisure and return to your hotel for the night.

Day 17: Bukhara to Samarkand

Continue your sightseeing tour in Bukhara, visiting the summer residence of the last emir, Sitorai-Mokhikhosa, and the Mausoleum of Bakhoutdin Naqshbandi. In the afternoon, depart for Samarkand, stopping en route at the 11th-century Caravanserai Rabat Malik. Arrive in Samarkand late in the day and settle into your hotel.

Day 18: Explore Samarkand and Return to Tashkent

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and enjoy a guided city tour of Samarkand. Visit the awe-inspiring Registan Square, the remains of the Bibi Khanum Mosque, the vibrant Siab Bazaar, and the Ulugbek Observatory. Also, explore the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis and the Gur Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane. In the late afternoon, transfer to the railway station to catch the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Tashkent, arriving in the early evening. Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 19: Departure from Tashkent

Enjoy your last breakfast in Tashkent before checking out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, take some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your transfer to the International Airport for your departure.

Tour Cost
price upon request
Price Includes
Price Excludes
  All transportation throughout the tour
  Sightseeing program with local guide in each city
  English speaking guide to accompany the group
  Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights
  Accommodation (shared double/twin room)
  Meals as stated in the program
  Economy class ticket for flight Tashkent-Urgench
  Economy-class ticket for train Samarkand-Tashkent
  Flight ticket Bishkek – Urumqi (economic class)
  Mineral water
  Permits to cross Torugart
  Any Private Expenses
  Tips are not included, but would be appreciated
  Travel insurance
  Consular fees for tourist visa
  Chinese and Kyrgyzstan visa support

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From$3,500
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