Embark on a captivating 3-day journey to Turkestan, an ancient city at the spiritual and cultural heart of Central Asia. This tour invites you to explore the depth of Kazakhstan’s heritage, from monumental mausoleums to medieval settlements, and experience the historic sites that stand as testaments to centuries of tradition and devotion.
The journey begins with a trip to Otrar, a once-thriving medieval city where you’ll encounter remnants of ancient mosques, residential blocks, and the celebrated Mausoleum of Arystan Bab—a revered Sufi saint and mentor to the esteemed poet and mystic Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. You’ll also visit the Mausoleum of Gauhar Ana, daughter of Yasawi, known for her healing gifts and remembered fondly through generations of locals. Your day concludes with an immersive experience at Turkestan’s Karavansaray complex. Here, watch an 8D cinematic journey that flies through the origins of Kazakh culture, or take a peaceful gondola ride as you witness the magical parade celebrating the romantic tale of Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen.
Day two centers on the architectural marvel of the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, constructed by the legendary conqueror Timur. This sprawling site also includes the tomb of Rabia-Sultan Begim, medieval bathhouses, and the Darvaza Gate. In the afternoon, visit the Kultobe settlement, home to relics spanning four significant periods of Kazakh history, where artifacts reveal insights into life during the Kangyu, early Medieval, and Kazakh Khanate eras.
On the final day, you’ll journey to the mystical mausoleum and well of Ukasha-ata, famed for its miraculous waters. According to legend, only the chosen can draw water from this sacred well, where a wish whispered is said to come true. With each stop, this tour offers a rare blend of history, spirituality, and enchanting local legends, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories of Kazakhstan’s profound heritage.
This enriching 3-day tour of Turkestan is ideal for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience in Kazakhstan’s ancient lands.
Upon your arrival at Turkestan airport, our guide and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in and a hearty breakfast. After you’ve refreshed, the adventure begins with a drive to Otrar, an ancient city located 65 km from Turkestan. Otrar was once a prominent trading hub in Central Asia, flourishing between the X-XII centuries, and is home to fascinating ruins, including ancient blocks, a bathhouse, and a mosque. This city offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Central Asia’s medieval past.
Next, your journey continues to the Mausoleum of Arystan-Bab, situated 55 km from Turkestan, near Otrar. Arystan-Bab, a revered spiritual leader and the mentor of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, is a significant figure in Islamic mysticism. His tomb is a major pilgrimage site for many Muslims, who visit to pay respects to a teacher linked to the Prophet Muhammad. Arystan-Bab lived for an astonishing 340 years according to local legend and his tomb remains an important spiritual landmark.
Afterward, explore the Mausoleum of Gauhar-Ana, daughter of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Known for her extraordinary healing powers, Gauhar-Ana was a figure of great reverence. People from surrounding regions would visit her tomb seeking cures for ailments. Local legend even suggests a secret underground passage that connects Gauhar-Ana’s tomb to the cell of her father, Khoja Yasawi.
In the late afternoon, head back to Turkestan and visit the magnificent Karavansaray complex, a unique cultural center that brings together Kazakhstan’s deep-rooted history and modern-day attractions. At Karavansaray, you’ll experience the «Altyn Samruk» 8D cinema—a flying theater offering an immersive journey through Kazakhstan’s cultural landscape, followed by a scenic gondola ride. The evening concludes with a spectacular boat parade called «Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen,» a mythical love story that adds a touch of magic to the day. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 9-10 hours
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full day of exploration. Your first stop is the renowned Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most iconic landmarks in Kazakhstan. Built by Timur (Tamerlane) in the 14th century, this mausoleum is a monumental testament to the legacy of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, one of the most influential figures in Central Asian Islam. Alongside the main tomb, you will visit several other key structures: the Mausoleum of Rabia-Sultan Begim (late 15th century), the underground Hilovat Mosque (12th-15th centuries), medieval bathhouses, the Big Hilvet, Darvaza Gate (17th-19th centuries), Chillakhana (14th century), and the Juma Mosque (19th century).
Following this, explore the ancient settlement of Kultobe, which dates back to the 12th century and was a bustling urban center during its prime. Kultobe reveals artifacts from four significant historical periods: the Kangyu period (4th century), early medieval period (8th-9th centuries), medieval period (10th-12th centuries), and the Kazakh Khanate period (16th-19th centuries). These sites provide valuable insight into the evolution of Kazakhstan’s culture and heritage.
Later, you will visit the memorial dedicated to the 21st Kazakh Khan and enjoy more of the immersive experiences at Karavansaray, including a second visit to the “Altyn Samruk” flying theater. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, with opportunities to shop for traditional crafts or relax in the serene atmosphere of Turkestan. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 7-8 hours
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a spiritual excursion to Ukasha-ata, located 47 km from Turkestan. Ukasha-ata was a heroic figure and a close associate of the Prophet Muhammad. Local legend tells that Ukasha-ata lost his strength only during morning prayers, during which time his enemies ambushed him. As he prayed, his head was severed and rolled into the earth, where it is said to have caused a sacred well to appear at the spot. The well is considered miraculous, and it is believed that those who are fortunate enough to draw water from it will have their most intimate wishes fulfilled. You’ll visit the mausoleum and the sacred well, immersing yourself in the peace and mystery of the place.
After your visit to Ukasha-ata, return to Turkestan for free time, where you can relax, shop for souvenirs, or reflect on your journey through this historically rich region. Finally, our guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure.
Duration of sightseeing: 7-8 hours
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $800 | $480 | $420 | $380 | $350 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $900 | $640 | $530 | $490 | $460 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room)
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Full board Air tickets before and after the tour
I had the pleasure of visiting Turkestan and its surrounding historical sites, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. The highlight of the trip was the magnificent Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, which was a true marvel of architecture. The ancient city of Otrar provided a fascinating glimpse into Kazakhstan’s past, and I felt transported back in time walking among the ruins. The tour was well-organized, and our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, making the entire journey both educational and enjoyable. The Karavansaray complex was a magical experience with its immersive 8D cinema and boat parade. I highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in history and culture—Turkestan truly offers a unique blend of both.
The 3-day Timeless Turkestan tour was an incredible journey into Central Asia’s deep cultural roots. Visiting Turkestan, with its rich history, was an eye-opening experience. The Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum is truly breathtaking—its size and intricate details left me speechless. I particularly enjoyed visiting the mausoleum of Arystan-Bab, as it added a spiritual touch to the trip. The trip to Otrar, once a bustling city, was full of historical significance, and the mysterious Ukasha-ata Mausoleum had a mystical aura. Our guide made everything come alive with fascinating stories. The Karavansaray complex was a fun, interactive way to learn about Kazakh culture. This tour is a must for history enthusiasts—every stop was meaningful, and I learned so much about Kazakhstan’s past.