Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan & Uzbekistan

Welcome to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan! Our driver-guide will pick you up at the airport and escort you to the well-selected hotel. Almaty is a blend of tradition and modernity: in the countryside, herders migrate according to the seasons, living in traditional yurts and leading a nomadic life for generations, while in the modern city center, cafes, malls, concrete dwellings and grand hotels scatter along the streets. After check-in, you can rest at the hotel or explore the captivating city on your own.

► Recommended Activities (at your own expense)
Hang out at Arbat G. Almaty, an active cultural center located on Zhibek Zholy Street, where local artists create Kazakh-style oil paintings and portraits on the spot and street performers play music with impromptu dances, pumping up the crowds! Enjoy a stroll around the handicraft stores teeming with woolen dolls, ethnic-style slippers, embroidered scarves, and traditional silver jewelry. Besides, numerous street food stalls, ice cream shops, and cafes won’t let you down. Try the moreish shashlik (grilled meat), crispy fried dough balls, and a cup of rich milk tea.

► Insider Tips:
1. Money Matters: VISA and Mastercard are accepted in large malls and eateries, while cash is a necessity for small stores or street stalls. Tenge is the official currency of Kazakhstan (1 USD = 520 KZT), and you can exchange small amounts of tenge downtown.
2. Transport: For free-time explorations, it’s advisable to download the local ride-hailing app, Yandex Go, and Yandex Maps, which is more user-friendly in Central Asia than Google Maps.

Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel, Almaty (3 stars) or similar

Today, kick off your Central Asia tour packages with an immersive exploration of Almaty. After breakfast, let’s head to the compact yet informative Almaty Museum. Browse abundant exhibits, including saddles, armor, rock paintings, ethnic costumes, and mineral and animal specimens, to get an overview of the history of Almaty's development from the 14th century to the present. Then, proceed to the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, which was built to commemorate the 28 Almaty soldiers who sacrificed their lives to defend their homeland during World War II. We’ll also marvel at the Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral) nestled in the park, a masterpiece of the Tsarist era (1547-1917). Measuring 56 meters (184 feet) high, it’s the world’s second-tallest wooden church, with the entire structure applying the traditional mortise-and-tenon technique, enabling it to stand firm during the earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 in 1911! Moreover, the exquisite iconostasis and frescoes are the essence of Orthodox art, well worthy of careful appreciation.
► Tip: Wear long pants or maxi skirts when entering the cathedral. Additionally, women are advised to wear hijabs (headscarves), which are provided free at the entrance.

Afterward, drop by Green Bazaar (Zeleny Bazaar), which charms you with the rich indigenous community spirit of Almaty! The traditional Central Asian market adorned with a green dome has its first floor dedicated to locals’ daily shopping, with neatly arranged areas for fruits and vegetables, flower tea, green plants, and daily necessities; and the second floor offers clothing, souvenirs, and cheap yet delicious snacks like samsas (steamed buns) and refreshing pomegranate juice, as well as a sweeping view of the bustling market. What’s more, the bazaar provides convenient spots to exchange money; please stay vigilant and keep your rucksack in front.

Then, escape from the city center and head to Medeu Gorge to experience the magnificent natural scenery of Kazakhstan! Taking a cable car to the Shymbulak Ski Resort at an altitude of 2,200-3,200 meters (7,218-10,499 feet), with three stops along the 4.5-kilometer (2.8-mile) long route, dotted with cafes and eateries. Immerse yourself in the fresh air and stunning views: the snow-clad Alatau Mountains meet grassland under the vast sky; Medeu Ice Arena, the world’s largest alpine skating arena, hides among lush pine trees on the lower slope of Medeu Gorge. Due to the high altitude, it’s advisable to bring a light jacket even in summer (Jun.-Aug.).

Before dusk, take an eco-friendly electric bus to Kok-Tobe Hill and watch a breathtaking sunset against a dramatic backdrop of the snow-clad Heavenly Mountains shrouded in colorful clouds. Entertainment facilities on the hill, like a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and a mini zoo with small deer and alpacas, are family-friendly activities to do on your own. At last, take a cable car downhill and you’ll be transferred back to the hotel.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel, Almaty (3 stars) or similar

★ Unveil the Mystery Rift of Kazakhstan at Charyn Canyon!

Today, let’s uncover the secrets of the stunning Charyn Canyon, a natural masterpiece of God, formed by 12 million years of weathering and river erosion, with variously shaped rock layers in vibrant colors! It is also dubbed "Central Asia's Grand Canyon". After a 3-hour drive from Almaty, we arrive at our destination and dive into the most beautiful part, the Valley of Castles, whose red rocks resemble ancient castles. You’ll have a chance to get to the viewing platforms at the top for their stunning panoramic views. Also, you’ll be accompanied to descend to the 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) long trail beneath the valley and enjoy a 1-2 hours’ hike. Under the sunlight, the rocks show a magical change from deep orange to light brown, as if the entire canyon is on fire! If you are an adventurer, a more challenging route is available, which soars your adrenaline when you look down at the deep red rock fissures hundreds of meters deep. The valley also serves as an eco-museum, home to hundreds of species of animals and birds, as well as 1,500 species of plants. It must be a lovely experience when you encounter cute marmots! For a better hiking experience, it is suggested that you prepare some sun gear, especially in July and August, wear comfortable lightweight hiking shoes, and bring energy-boosting snacks. After the tour, drive 1.5 hours to Saty Village and stay overnight.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Saty Village Guest House or similar

Today, we’ll savor the incredible scenery of the lakes near Saty village. First, head to the Kolsai Lakes area, which consists of three lakes with altitudes ranging from 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) to 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). We’ll mainly admire the Lower Kolsai Lake, the first of the three. Stroll around the fairyland, soak up the tranquil aura, and appreciate the emerald green water reflecting towering pine trees and snow-capped mountains. Every season here presents a beautiful scene: in spring, the trees sprout and the lake is serene; in summer, it offers coolness for relaxation; in autumn, the forest around the lake turns a brilliant array of colors; and in winter, it resembles a kingdom of ice and snow. You can also rent a paddle boat to sail on the lake on your own if you like. It’s advisable to bring mosquito repellent spray in summer, and pack thick clothing in winter, as the temperature can drop to around -10℃ (14℉).

Afterward, take a half-hour drive to the breathtaking Kaindy Lake, a barrier lake formed by the earthquake in 1911, known as the ghostly "Underwater Forest". Be spellbound by the century-old fir tree trunks towering straight up from the water to the sky, resembling the spears of a mysterious army! The water is as clear as jade, and seems to be tinted with emerald under the shining sunlight. The road to the lake is rather bumpy, so please hold onto the handrails in the car. After the visit, you’ll be escorted back to Almaty.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel, Almaty (3 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll leave the morning for you to explore Almaty by yourself. You may gain an overview of the country’s history at the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, which displays traditional costumes, yurts, folk musical instruments, and a Scythian warrior wearing golden armor.

In the afternoon, wave goodbye to Almaty, and you’ll be escorted to the airport to catch a 45-minute flight to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, meet your guide and the driver of Kyrgyzstan, who will escort you to the hotel in Bishkek. The nomadic Kyrgyzstan has over 90% of its territory covered by the Pamirs and Heavenly Mountains, and herders still live a traditional nomadic life. They move with the seasons, carrying their wealth, several hundred cattle and sheep, and set up yurts on the alpine grasslands in summer and in the valleys when it’s getting cold in winter.
► Money Tip: Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in cities, while cash is king in rural areas and towns. It is suggested that you exchange some Kyrgyzstani som (USD 1 = KGS 87) at a currency exchange booth in the city center.

► Dinner Suggestion in Bishkek (at your own expense)
To savor the unique flavor of Kyrgyzstan, try the national dish, beshbarmak, which literally means "five fingers", hinting that it is traditionally eaten with hands. Stewed tender beef or mutton is served with diamond-shaped noodles and a small amount of thick broth - such a flavor explosion in your mouth! Another must-try is Lagman, a tomato-based soup with vegetables like purple onions, orange carrots, and green spinach... Isn’t it like a spilled palette? Pair it with a cup of refreshing kumis, a fermented mare milk drink. All of the delicacies can be tasted at the NAVAT Restaurant. Its eggplant salad, chak-chak cake, and mixed berry tea are also good choices.
Average Cost per Person: KGS 1,300-1,700 (USD 15-20)
Address: 114/1 Togolok Moldo Street, Bishkek

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Bishkek Centre Hotel (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll drive 5 hours to Cholpon Ata, the largest summer resort on the north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, the world’s second-largest alpine lake. Although it is located 1,607 meters (5,272 feet) high, the lake rarely freezes even in the harsh winter due to its high salinity; therefore, it is also called the ‘warm lake’ in Kyrgyz. En route, make a brief stop at the Nomad Museum, where ethnic exhibits, including horse gear, a yurt and Kyrgyz costumes, present the country’s nomadic culture.

Upon arriving in Cholpon Ata, head to the Museum of Petroglyphs. It’s a must-see open-air museum nestled in a vast field, filled with thousands of rock paintings depicting animals, such as wild sheep, horses, camels, and snow leopards, as well as scenes of hunting and sacrificial rituals. Besides, the ancient tombs, circular sacrificial stones, and Turkic stone statues, locally known as ‘balbals’, will leave you with new insights.

After today’s itinerary, you can take a stroll along Issyk-Kul Lake by yourself or enjoy the sun-kissed beaches. Maybe you’ll encounter people applying dark mud to their bodies in the lake, as the hypersaline lake mud boasts a skin-caring effect. You may also see eagle hunters training their eagles, a tradition that Kyrgyz herders have practiced for thousands of years. Today, enjoy an overnight stay near the lake.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Kapriz Issyk Kul Resort, Cholpon Ata (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, let’s make our way back to Bishkek, and on the way, drop by the isolated Burana Tower, a cylindrical tower measuring 25 meters (82 feet) high with an octagonal base engraved with 6 exquisite decorative bands. The 11th-century tower is the only remaining relic of Balasagun, once a vital Sogdian city along the Silk Road. Step up its external spiral staircase to the tower entrance, and ascend to the top through the internal winding stairs for panoramic views of the Heavenly Mountains and surrounding ancient warrior tombs. Besides, near the tower, you’ll spot some balbals, ancient stone stelae used to commemorate the deceased and mark the burial sites.

After that, you’ll be transferred to Bishkek airport to catch your 2-hour flight to Tashkent, the capital city with a history of 2,500 years and known as the “City of Stones.” Upon arrival, the Tashkent local driver will pick you up and escort you to the hotel. Take a rest and maybe savor some local delicacies on your own.

► Dining Recommendation in Tashkent (at your own expense)
Plov, an iconic cuisine throughout Central Asia, is a must-try, and the restaurant Besh Qozon, boasting the ‘best plov in Central Asia’, definitely can’t be missed. Take your chance to view the cooking process in the open kitchen, where cooks simmer rice, carrots, beef and mutton separately in huge pots and then stir-fry them together. You’ll also see a row of large earth ovens for baking naans. Try the signature plov sprinkled with dried fruits, nuts, and tender and juicy lamb, horse meat, or beef. If you have a light diet, pair the oily plov with a cup of refreshing black tea.
Average Cost per Person: UZS 50,000-100,000 (USD 4-8)
Address: Guards Colonel Khodjaev Street 1, Near TV Tower, Tashkent

► Uzbekistan Visa Note: For tourists from over 50 countries, including the USA, an e-visa is a must (except for US citizens under 16 or over 55). Additionally, as you’ll enter Uzbekistan twice during this tour, you need to apply for a double-entry visa, which costs around USD 35.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Wyndham Tashkent (4 stars) or similar

Today, you’ll be transferred to the Uzbek-Tajik border, where the Khujand guide and the driver will pick you up and escort you to the downtown hotel. Khujand is Tajikistan’s second biggest city, which has survived for up to 2,500 years and is a vital settlement along the ancient Silk Road. Divided into two parts by the Syr River, the city endears itself to you with a rich historical yet laid-back atmosphere, with rows of mulberry trees lining the streets.

After checking into the hotel, some landmarks of the city will be ticked off successively. First, visit the Historical Local Lore Museum of Archeology and Fortification, located within the Khujand Fortress, which was built in the 6th-5th centuries BC. The cultures and daily lives of the Sogdian region dating back to the Samanid Dynasty (819-999) and the Timurid Period (1370-1507) respectively unfurl in different sections through precious artifacts, including ceramics, vessels, glassware, and tombstones with inscriptions, as well as plans of Khujand in different eras. Additionally, stand in awe of the mosaic murals in the basement, which vividly depict the life of Alexander the Great. It’s said that Khujand was created by the military genius and was once called “Alexandri Eschate”, meaning "Alexandria the Farthest," marking the farthest outpost of the empire of Alexander the Great.

Then, proceed to Panjshanbe Square and admire the Mausoleum of Sheik Muslekheddin, which was built to honor the revered poet and the city’s ruler in the 12th century. After that, let’s get a close-up look at the daily life of northern Tajikistan in Panjshanbe Market, the “Thursday Market,” in the old days. As one of Central Asia’s largest markets, it’s now in full swing all days with locals and people from neighboring villages, and countless stalls are filled with hand-woven embroideries, woolen carpets, preserves, spices, fresh agricultural products, iconic huge naan, and tender grilled lamb skewers, as well as sweet and juicy fruit like honeydew melons, watermelons, golden melons, and grapes. Don’t miss having a try! The building itself is an exotic art, blending Soviet grandeur and Islamic detailing, which features huge red walls, a gateway adorned with exquisitely painted hemispherical domes and golden statues, as well as an interior arched ceiling.

At last, let Arbob Cultural Palace be an enjoyable conclusion. Standing on its namesake hill, the palace boasts a symmetrical yellow and white building complex, neatly arranged Russian-style rose gardens, and magnificent tulip-shaped fountains, which bear testimony to its modeling after the winter garden of Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg. It’s the very place to learn about Tajikistan’s collectivization process during the Soviet era, as it was the former headquarters of the Soviet collective farms.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Parliament Hotel Khujand (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll travel 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest to Istaravshan, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Tajikistan, with a history of over 2,500 years. The exotic ancient Muslim city is also a crucial stop along the Silk Road.

We’ll first head northeastwards to Mount Mug to visit the Fortress Mug Teppe, which was built between the 3rd and 4th centuries BC. It suffered several wars and was severely damaged. However, its former grandeur can be discerned from the ruins, and the reconstructed blue-domed brick gate is an ornament to the fort. Standing on the city wall, enjoy a broad view of the entire town. Then, walk through the labyrinthine alleys to appreciate the 16th-century Kuk Gumbaz Mosque (Abdulatif Sultan Madrasa) topped with eye-catching turquoise domes. Istaravshan is famous for its blacksmithing, and we’ll also drop by the local market to glimpse the handicrafts. In the workshop, various types of knives are on display, and skilled blacksmiths sit beside small earthen ovens, meticulously hammering the iron blocks.

Afterward, continue driving through a vast expanse of yellow and green fields and pastures, and pass through the 3,378-meter (11,083-foot) Shahriston Pass. After the 5-kilometer (16-foot) dimly lit tunnel, and another 5-hour drive, we’ll reach the border of Uzbekistan, where you’ll be escorted to the hotel in Samarkand by your private driver. Samarkand was once the capital of the powerful Timurid Empire (1370-1507).

► Recommended Restaurant in Samarkand (at your own expense)
Samarkand Restaurant is an elegant Central Asian-style restaurant popular with locals. Try the Uzbek plov, Alibaba puff pastry, grilled lamb chops, and cheese salad. The restaurant also provides vegetarian options. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, find a table in the big dining room with music and a dance floor, and it’s advisable to make a reservation in advance. The restaurant closes at 23:00.
Average Cost per Person: UZS 100,000-150,000 (USD 8-12)
Address: Makhmuda Koshgari, 54, Samarkand Uzbekistan

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Grand Samarkand Superior (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, your private guide will lead you to Registan Square, the historical, cultural and artistic center of Samarkand. Marvel at its three breathtaking madrasas: the Shir Dor Madrasa, famous for its exquisite lion-tiger mosaics on the façade; the Tilla-Kori Madrasa, whose golden foil-decorated dome inside will leave you awestruck; and the Ulugbek Madrasa, built by Timur's grandson Ulugbek, a prominent mathematician and astronomer.

Our next stop is Samarkand’s largest market, Siyob Bazaar, where the products are all of good quality, from ethnic clothing to agricultural products, and sweet and juicy watermelons, layered naan bread, and green tea with saffron. You may be surprised to see various Korean pickles. The ethnic Korean vendors are said to be descendants of those who fled here before World War II. Then, continue southward to admire Bibi Khanym Mosque, a masterpiece that Timur ordered to be constructed as “a mosque that would make the stars jealous” for his beloved wife. The 38-meter (125-foot) high portal and classic turquoise domes were once the most stunning façade in the Islamic world. Next, we’ll view the Ulugbek Observatory, where you can see the brass sextant the mathematician invented.

Afterward, head to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, which boasts a mosque and 13 tombs for the Timurid nobles, including Timur’s wife and sisters. Among them, the most sacred is Kusam ibn Abbas, who was a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and was beheaded by a pagan during his preaching in the 7th century.

Round off today’s visit at the Gur-Emir Mausoleum. The gold leaf-decorated tomb was built originally for Muhammad Sultan (1376-1405), Timur’s grandson, but became the final resting place of Timur himself, who had planned to be buried in his hometown, Shahrisabz, but failed due to heavy snow. Moreover, legend has it that in 1941, Soviet archaeologists opened his deep green jade coffin, and Timur’s curse was released: 'Whoever disturbs the tomb would face a severe war!' Coincidentally, not long after that, Nazi Germany attacked the Soviet Union! Soviet leader Stalin urgently ordered the body to be properly put back. After that, the Soviet Union won the Battle of Stalingrad (1942-1943), a turning point of World War II.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Grand Samarkand Superior (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the railway station to take a 2-hour high-speed train to Bukhara. Upon arrival, the local driver will escort you to the hotel and your guide will accompany you to explore the city landmarks. Boasting a history of over 2,500 years, Bukhara was once a stopover for Silk Road merchants, and scholars to give sermons to the nobles. Unlike the colorful Samarkand, Bukhara features a desert cityscape, taking light ochre as its main hue.

Let’s explore Kalyan Square, the soul of old Bukhara. The 47-meter (154-foot) high, intricately patterned Kalyan Minaret is the only building that survived the expedition of Genghis Khan. It’s said that when the conqueror looked up at the grand brick minaret, his hat fell off, and he had to bend over to pick it up. Throughout his successful life, he had never bowed to anything. Therefore, he ordered the minaret to be preserved. Next to the minaret is the Kalyan Mosque, Bukhara’s main mosque, which can accommodate 12,000 people at the same time! Besides, the nearby Miri-Arab Madrasah, Bukhara’s oldest madrasah, has trained numerous influential imams (religious leaders).

Then, continue to appreciate the 9th-century Magoki-Attori Mosque, the oldest mosque in Central Asia. After seeing numerous mosques decorated with ceramic tiles, this one featuring rustic fired-brick carvings will leave you with a refreshing impression. Next, pass by the Ulugh Beg Madrasah and the Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah, and arrive at the Trade Domes Market, once a gem on the Silk Road where merchants from India, Iran and China gathered to trade countless treasures, including silk, spices, jewelry, and different cultures and customs. The stalls in the market entice you with diverse, exquisite handicrafts, ranging from camel fur bags to embroidered fabrics, silver jewelry, woven carpets, and intricate paintings.

Then, head to Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble. A century ago, Bukhara's water supply consisted of a network of canals and over 200 ponds. Now, the old pond in the square has lost its original function and is brimming with people enjoying leisure time. Don’t miss taking a snap with the statue of Nasreddin Hodja, a humorous and wise figure in Muslim folklore. At last, admire Chor-Minor Madrasah, an icon selected as the cover image of Central Asia in ‘Lonely Planet’. Be smitten by the exquisite building with four asymmetrical turquoise spires, representing four religions: Islam, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and Christianity.

► The Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara
From late May to the beginning of June, a grand and lively Silk and Spices Festival is held in Bukhara. People of all ages dress in colorful tie-dye or embroidered ethnic attire, carrying flags, manipulating giant puppets, and playing ethnic musical instruments, dancing and singing joyfully. The street stalls are teeming with spices, silk fabrics, camel wood carvings, painted ceramics, and hand-woven carpets. What's more, the hot cockfighting and sheep fighting, with a roped-off circle as the ‘battlefield’, are heating up!

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Volida Hotel Bukhara (3 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll further explore Bukhara, which reached its peak in the 16th century, when the Bukhara Khanate (1500-1920), founded by the Uzbeks, replaced the Timurid Empire. Nowadays, most of the buildings and relics are treasures from that period.

First, visit the Ark Fortress, a symbol of the medieval civilization of Bukhara. The thick walls and sturdy gates bore the military defense function, and they were once equipped with structures like palaces, residences, mosques, stables and prisons, but unfortunately, few have been wholly saved. The fortress was constructed by the hero, Siyavush. According to the Persian epic ‘Sefer Melachim’, Prince Shiyavash fell in love with a girl whose father required him to build a palace within a piece of cowhide-sized land. The clever prince cut the cowhide into a long, thin strip and connected the ends, and built this Ark Fortress within the circle.

We’ll then view the royal Bolo Hauz Mosque, whose porch is supported by 20 beautifully carved columns. It’s said that as the king came for prayer every Friday, it is also known as the ‘Friday Mosque’. Then, continue to visit two mausoleums: the Samanid Mausoleum, which is in memory of Ismail Saman, the king of the Samanid Dynasty (874-999). This cube-shaped structure is built in single-color fired bricks and adorned with a large dome and four small domes. The other is the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, where the Jewish prophet Chashma Ayub hit the ground with a staff, and the spring water gushed out and saved the refugees in a drought.

The next stop is the Summer Palace in the northern suburbs. It’s the only remaining royal residence and served the last king of the Bukhara Khanate, Alim Khan (reigned from 1911 to 1920). The old part of the palace is in a classic Islamic architectural style, while the new part combines European and Central Asian styles. The last stop today is the Memorial Complex of Bahouddin Naqshbandi, which boasts the Islamic Sufi saint Naqshbandi's tomb, a mosque, a minaret, a madrasah, etc. The Sufi sect pilgrims revere it as the ‘second Mecca’.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Volida Hotel Bukhara (3 stars) or similar

Today, you’ll be escorted to catch your 4-hour high-speed train to Tashkent. Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up and escorted to the hotel by your Tashkent private driver. The remaining hours will be devoted to exploring the city accompanied by your guide.

First, admire the historical relics of Islamic sages at the Khast-Imam Complex, standing solemnly in the city center. Among the complex, the Madrasah of Barak-Khan, one of Tashkent’s oldest madrasahs, has its magnificent exterior decorated with indigo tiles and geometric patterns interwoven with Kufic scriptures. Right next to it is the Tilla Sheikh Mosque built of exquisite materials. Be smitten by the green marble that came from Turkey, the blue tiles from Iran, and the sandalwood pillars imported from India. Continue heading to the Mausoleum of Abubakr Kaffal Shashi, a pilgrimage site for believers to revere the Sufi theologian, scholar, jurist and poet. Besides, the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari is a top institute named after the famous recorder of ‘Hadith’, Muslims’ spiritual guide.

Then, experience the bustling vibe at Chorsu Bazaar, the most famous market in Tashkent, marked by a huge green dome! In the bazaar, golden naan breads are piled up like hills, spice stalls send forth delicate fragrances of saffron and cumin mingled with fresh scents of various teas, and the locals are driving hard bargains with the vendors in fluent Russian or Uzbek. You can also browse to discover second-hand gems like antique pocket watches, old-fashioned saxophones, or ancient coins. Outside the dome are shops selling items with transparent pricing, including unpackaged food, exquisite embroidered handbags, and pillow covers. Besides, authentic kebabs and plov are also worth trying.

Afterward, head to the State Museum of Applied Art for a glimpse of Uzbekistan's sculptures, decorative arts and metal casting art, as well as the intricate Suzani embroideries and psychedelic colors of ikat tie-dye fabrics. Then, continue to the city center by the Soviet-era metro. It’s the earliest metro system in Central Asia, decorated with magnificent sculptures, murals, and mosaics. Get off at Independence Square, which was built to commemorate the martyrs for freedom, and walk to the Amir Timur Park, where a monument of the great military leader stands, engraved with his motto in three languages: ‘Power lies in justice.’ Mark the last stop in the Earthquake Memorial, which was built to commemorate victims of the 1966 earthquake that caused 300,000 people to be homeless.

Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Wyndham Tashkent (4 stars) or similar

Today, bid farewell to your tours to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Your private driver will escort you to the airport and see you off. Wishing you a smooth journey home!

If you are curious about Turkmenistan, the most mysterious of the five countries in Central Asia, or if you want to extend your Silk Road exploration to countries like China and Turkey, we can offer you itineraries customizable according to your preferences. Please feel free to contact us at any time!

Meal: Breakfast