Uzbekistan, Tajikistan & Kyrgyzstan

Welcome to choose this 16-day cheap guided Uzbekistan Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan tour! Our journey will begin in Uzbekistan. Upon arrival in Tashkent, our driver will pick you up at the airport and escort you to the downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration.

Uzbekistan, a doubly landlocked country, may not immediately spring to your mind as a must-visit destination. However, those Silk Road cities stuck in time have quietly told their history, shaped by the Sogdians, Genghis Khan, and Amir Timur. Each intricate tile and ornate archway also invites you to appreciate the incomparable Islamic beauty. From tomorrow, we’ll visit some of the most iconic sites.

► Things to Know:
1. Visa: Travelers from 66 countries, including the EU and UK, can enter Uzbekistan visa-free, which also applies to US citizens aged under 16 and above 55; other US citizens and visitors from 50 countries, like Colombia and Thailand, must obtain an e-visa one to two weeks in advance.
2. Currency: The sum is the official currency in the country (USD 1≈UZS 12,000). As credit cards are only accepted at large hotels, restaurants, and malls, we advise bringing USD and exchanging them in the city center for your free time exploration and bazaar purchases.
3. Weather: Uzbekistan is extremely hot in July and August, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). If traveling during this time, please pack sun protection gear and stay hydrated. Since our itinerary includes desert travel, bringing a mask to protect against dust is also essential.

Accommodation: Wyndham Tashkent (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll explore Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Before Islam spread to this region in the mid-8th century, the city was ruled by the Sogdians and thrived as a key commercial hub connecting Europe and East Asia along the ancient Silk Road. Over time, Genghis Khan, Amir Timur, and the Soviets successively conquered it, erasing much of the Sogdian heritage. Now, Tashkent exhibits the modern sense as Central Asia’s most populous city, dotted with restored Islamic buildings and Soviet-era apartments.

Let’s make our way to the Khast-Imam Complex first, which is centered on the tomb of Abubakr Kaffal-Shashi, a renowned Quranic scholar who was revered as an Imam, a leader in Islam. In the 1966 Tashkent earthquake, the mausoleum was heavily damaged, and now the new version features an asymmetrical domed portal and a façade covered in blue enamel. Besides numerous pilgrims coming here to worship, many local women gather to smear their faces with dust from the mausoleum, believing it may bring them a lovely baby.

Then, we’ll head to Chorsu Bazaar. Under its giant turquoise dome, stalls are arranged in concentric circles, with commodities like meat, dairy products, and dried fruits sold in designated areas, looking neat and orderly. Followed by the State Museum of Applied Art, you can admire a wide range of Uzbek folk art, including suzani embroidery, miniatures, traditional costumes, and jewelry. The guide will then lead you on a metro ride through different themed stations, capturing the splendor of the space-themed Kosmonavtlar station and marveling at the marble columns and chandeliers that adorn Independence Square (Mustaqilliq Maidoni) station.  

After getting off, we’ll stroll through Independence Square and walk to the adjacent Amir Timur Square, and pay homage to this Turkic conqueror’s statue, who built the great Timurid Empire (1370-1507) spanning India, Russia, and the Mediterranean. Many streets, museums, and enterprises in Tashkent are named after him. Before returning to the hotel, we’ll mourn for the victims of the 1966 earthquake at the Earthquake Memorial.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Wyndham Tashkent (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, our Tashkent driver will whisk you to Urgench Airport for a 2-hour flight to Khiva. After landing, a local driver will pick you up and escort you to the hotel for check-in. Once settled in, follow our guide to discover Khiva’s rich history dating back to the 5th century BC. Its compact size makes it easy to wander through narrow alleys to see architectural wonders.

Our sightseeing will mainly focus on Ichan Kala, Khiva’s UNESCO-listed inner city. Encircled by 8-10 meter (26-33 foot) high city walls, it contains over 50 monuments and 200 residences, most of which were restored during the Soviet era. At the east gate, you’ll notice many niches in the walls – reminders of the 17th-century dark slave trade, where slaves were tied, displayed, and waiting to be sold. Going further, we’ll visit the Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah, which once housed 260 students to study and live, and now operates as a hotel; and the Muhammad Rahim Khan Madrasah, turned into a museum displaying flags and coins from the Khiva Khanate (1512-1920), as well as porcelain from China and Russia.

Next to the madrasahs is the Kalta Minor Minaret, famous for its unfinished look covered by eye-catching green glazed tiles. Originally intended to rise over 70 m (230 ft.) to watch over possible bandits from Bukhara, it was halted at 29 meters (95 feet) after the Khan’s death. Later, we’ll visit Juma Mosque, where 212 entirely different wooden pillars, instead of traditional portals and domes, showcase local artisans’ talented creativity. Some exquisite wooden pillars were collected from ruined residences of medieval officials, while simple ones were donated by the community.

After glimpsing the once luxurious life of the Khan and his concubines at Tosh-Hovli Palace, our guide will accompany you to Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, which boasts Khiva’s largest dome and most stunning tilework, mainly featuring scrollwork with religious sayings. Please store your shoes at the entrance before visiting. Wrap up our sightseeing with an ascent to the tops of the Islam Khodja Minaret and Kunya-Ark, a good place to overlook tourists wandering among sandy structures, evoking the hustle and bustle of the Silk Road era. Just be careful of the steep and narrow steps! 

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense):
If you don’t want to return to the hotel, consider heading to Sultan Restaurant across from the 
Islam Khodja Minaret. On its cozy terrace, sip a refreshing cup of beer and wait for the sunset, when the madrasahs and mosques are bathed in a warm glow. Don’t miss the chance to try Khiva’s specialty – Shivit Oshit, green noodles topped with rich stewed beef, potatoes, and carrots. Eggplant Salad, Grilled plates, and Mantis are also popular.
Average Cost per Person: UZS 10,000-15,000 (USD 8-12)
Address: Islam Khoja 9, 220900, Khiva, Xorazm Region, Uzbekistan

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Asia Khiva (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Bukhara across the expansive Kyzylkum Desert, which takes about 7-8 hours. While deserts are deemed barren, the Kyzylkum Desert differs, especially in spring (March to June), when the dunes bloom with wild tulips and poppies. Some oasis settlements also add to its charm. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Amu Darya River, the natural border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Due to the long transfer and poor road conditions, it is advisable to take motion sickness pills before departure and bring a headrest, enough water, and food.

Upon arrival at Bukhara, check into the local hotel for rest. Before 2,500 years, Bukhara was an obscure oasis in the Zerafshan River Delta, flourishing through active trade with Turkmenistan by merchants from Persia, India, China, and Russia, and reaching its zenith in the 16th century. Tomorrow, follow our guide for a walking tour through trading domes, madrasahs, and mausoleums, uncovering its historical links to the Silk Road.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Volida Hotel Bukhara (3 stars) or similar

Start our Bukhara exploration at the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble. Literally meaning ‘pool’, Hauz was once the city’s vital water source but was mostly demolished during the Soviet era. Thanks to its central location, Lyabi Hauz survived and is now surrounded by several restaurants, malls, madrasahs, and mosques. Stroll to the adjacent Nadir Divan-begi Madrasah, one of the few madrasahs decorated with animal motifs in Central Asia, and you’ll see a sun with a human face embraced by peacocks on its blue-tiled portal.

Heading west to the Magoki-Attori Mosque, converted from a Zoroastrian temple to a small carpet museum, you can admire 104 types of carpets from across Central Asia. After visiting Trade Domes Market, which is used for selling hats, jewelry, silk, and currency exchange, let’s go through narrow alleys lined with ancient brown houses to reach the Chor-Minor Madrasah. Inspired by Indian architecture, it features four decorative turquoise towers instead of minarets, which is the only one of its kind in Bukhara and once graced the cover of Lonely Planet.

Then, star patterns and stalactite structures of the Ulugh Beg Madrassah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrassah will come into your view, followed by the Po-i Kalyan Complex, whose history was relevant to Genghis Khan. Legend says Genghis Khan stood on the Kalyan Minaret to justify his invasion of Bukhara and declared, “If you had not committed sins, God would not send me to punish you.” Our next stop is the Ark Fortress, once home to Bukhara’s Emirs, nobles, and poets, boasting mosques, stables, a mint, and rooms with other functions, earning it the nickname ‘a city within a city.’ Some areas are now transformed into a museum, where you can find royal costumes, calligraphy, and ceramics.

Step to the opposite Bolo Hauz Mosque, and you’ll be captivated with 20 intricately carved wooden pillars supporting a ceiling adorned with murals. Standing by the pool in front of the mosque to capture the pillars and their reflections is popular among tourists. Our journey continues to the Samanid Mausoleum, a brilliant cubic brick structure coated with pastes made from camel milk, topped with four small domes symbolizing the unity of the earth and universe. After visiting the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, you’ll be escorted back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Volida Hotel Bukhara (3 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll continue to explore Bukhara. After breakfast, you’ll be guided to the Summer Palace, the former residence of Bukhara’s last governor. Affected by his education experience in Russia, the Emir stuffed his palace with luxurious mirrors and stained glass, far away from the city’s traditional aesthetics. There is a pool in its harem, where Emir’s concubines once played and accepted the apple from Emir to share the night with him. Next, let’s make our way to the Chor-Bakr Necropolis, the largest burial site in Bukhara, which is centered around the tomb of a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and thus becomes a hot pilgrimage site for local Sufi followers. Our Bukhara sightseeing will conclude at the Memorial Complex of Bahouddin Naqshband, dedicated to an extraordinary Sufi believer, who devoted himself to silk weaving and metalworking and is revered as the patron saint of artisans in Bukhara.

Afterwards, our Bukhara driver will transfer you to the railway station for a 2-hour high-speed train to Samarkand. Upon your arrival, our local driver will meet you at the train station and escort you to the hotel for check-in. Spend the remainder of the day at your own pace!

► What to Eat in Samarkand (at your own expense):
Once revitalized, you can head out to hunt for local delicacies. Somsa is a must-try, a pastry filled with seasoned beef or mutton, pumpkin, potatoes, and onions. Each triangle of dough is brushed with egg wash, sprinkled with sesame seeds, and baked to perfection. With just UZS 10,000 (USD 0.8) each, you’ll savor a balance of its crispy crust and juicy filling at the first bite. Lagman is also enticing, featuring hand-pulled noodles stewed with beef, bell peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes, with UZS 20,000 (USD 1.6) per serving. Both of the dishes are available at most restaurants in Samarkand.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Grand Samarkand Superior (4 stars) or similar

Samarkand, founded by Sogdians around 650 BC, sat at the intersection of two major Silk Road trade routes. Sadly, most early Sogdian architecture was destroyed after the 13th-century Mongol invasion and subsequent earthquakes. Then, Timur brought worldwide artisans to restore the city with more impressive and splendid Islamic buildings, aiming to establish Samarkand as a global center. 

Let’s check his masterpieces at Samarkand’s heart first - Registan Square once renowned as the world’s noblest public square. Ulugh Beg, Timur’s grandson, further developed it into a cultural center, surrounded by three madrasahs adorned with blue glazed tiles, Islamic calligraphy, and floral motifs. Inside, visitors can rent traditional skirts - dress like a Central Asian princess for a memorable experience. If interested, you can try it at your own expense, with the cost of costumes and photography ranging from UZS 500,000 to 750,000 (UZS 40-60).

Head north to Siyob Bazaar, which offers a true taste of local cuisine rather than souvenirs. You can try lepeshka, a fluffy and flat bread stamped with patterns and topped with sesame seeds and cumin. Even Bukhara’s Emir was so impressed by its flavor that he sent bakers to Samarkand to learn how to make it. Just across the street lies the Bibi Khanym Mosque, built with extensive baked bricks and glazed tiles to reflect Timur’s ambition of overshadowing other structures of its time. However, due to the rapid construction and improper methods, it mostly collapsed during a 16th-century earthquake and was restored during the Soviet era. Then, we’ll visit the Ulugbek Observatory, a cylindrical structure housing the brass sextant invented by Ulugh Beg, which was used to measure angles and altitudes of celestial bodies. Its hilltop location also offers stunning views of the surroundings.

After that, follow our guide to the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, where over 20 mausoleums line a 500-meter (1,640-foot) long avenue. Islamic architecture’s love for geometric lines and mosaics is fully exhibited here, with most façades, domes, openwork windows, and layered niches decorated with azure, white, and gold tiles. Before returning to the hotel, we’ll also stop at the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of Timur.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Grand Samarkand Superior (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, our driver will escort you to the Jartepa border, from where we’ll proceed to Tajikistan, exploring ancient Sogdian civilization, the rugged Fann Mountains, and the vibrant cityscape of Dushanbe. After crossing the border, our guide and the driver in Panjakent will greet you and transfer you to the hotel. Once settled, we’ll start sightseeing in Panjakent. 

First, kick off with the ancient city of Sarazm, one of Central Asia’s oldest settlements, dating back to the 4th century BC. The ruins feature functional rooms like dwellings, temples, workshops, and altars arranged in regular brick formations, indicating a well-planned urban layout. Sculptures at the entrance depict some life scenes from that era. We’ll then visit the Republican Museum of History and Local Lore of Rudaki, where you can learn about tools used 3,000 years ago for farming, herding, and crafts, as well as jewelry, urns, and publications of the renowned Tajik poet Rudaki. 

Next, extend our exploration to Ancient Town of Panjakent, a 5th-century Sogdian city with remnants of a citadel, two Zoroastrian temples, and some adobe houses. In the 7th and 8th centuries, the city doubled in size as commerce and crafts developed. Besides workshops and stores, some aristocratic mansions also emerged during this period, often two or three stories high with ornate reception halls. The site’s most important findings are murals in these halls, depicting religious ceremonies, folk epics, hunting scenes, and stories from Aesop’s Fables, many of which are relatively well-preserved with vibrant colors.

Finally, we’ll meander through the local bazaar to mingle with locals. Vendors call out to attract passersby with their various offerings, such as fresh produce, spices, fried fruits, and steamed buns. One of the most popular items is their signature snack: yellow radish, pickled and displayed in bowls.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Panjakent Plaza Hotel (3 stars) or similar

After days of cultural immersion, let’s shift our focus to the pristine beauty of the Seven Lakes today! Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved a large basin in the Fann Mountains, collecting rainwater, snowmelt, sediments, and minerals to create seven lakes with varying altitudes and hues from turquoise to black. 

★ A Trek through Nature’s Palette at Seven Lakes

You’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour private transfer through the Shing Valley to the fourth lake, followed by a 1.5-hour hike with our guide. The fourth lake, the longest of all, is aptly named Nofin, meaning ‘umbilical cord,’ where you can soak up grass-covered floodplains and boulders beneath emerald waters. Continue driving to the sixth lake, often deemed the most beautiful, thanks to the rolling mountains serving as a stunning backdrop. From here, lace your hiking boots and trek toward the seventh lake, located at 2,400 meters (7,874 ft.) and surrounded by colorful alpine flowers and melodic streams. You may encounter goats, cows, and horses roaming nearby. Remember to stay close to the guide, as some sections can be a bit steep! 

During our hike, we’ll also visit local villages. Some houses are perched on sharp mountainsides and are accessible only on foot or by donkey. Hospitable and naive villagers may greet you with ‘Assalom’ while placing their right hand over their heart, showing respect for guests. Afterwards, we’ll drive back to Panjakent. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Panjakent Plaza Hotel (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 4-hour drive to Iskanderkul Lake, the largest in the Fann Mountains. Prepare for a thrilling journey through Anzob Pass, which reaches an altitude of 3,372 m (11,063 ft.) and is one of Central Asia’s most dramatic roads due to limited lighting and avalanche risks. Don’t worry! Our skilled drivers are familiar with local terrain, promising a safe trip with stunning views of rugged rock formations emerging from misty red cliffs. Upon arrival, you’ll check into the hotel and settle your luggage. 

Then, explore the lake with a 40-minute hike to Iskanderkul Waterfall, during which you’ll see towering peaks reflected in the crystalline waters and may meet adventurous souls taking a refreshing swim. The 43-meter (141-foot) high waterfall is formed by a river cascading down the cliffs, and you can feel the exhilarating rush of falling water when standing on the platform. Locals believe its splendor rivals Niagara Falls, and they often tie ribbons to nearby trees to make wishes. To the west of the waterfall lies Snake Lake, surrounded by reeds, whose warm waters are home to amphibians and reptiles, including snakes that lend the lake its name. To prevent possible altitude sickness, please walk slowly and steadily. A pair of sturdy hiking shoes will also be useful to cope with slippery terrain.

We’ll then stroll back to the lakeside hotel for rest; the remainder of the day depends on you! Rent a boat to explore the serene lake at your own expense, or sit by the shore for birdwatching, with the chance to spot elusive Himalayan snow cocks, sakers, and larks. Our guide can also accompany you on a walk nearby if you wish.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Zumrad Guesthouse, Iskanderkul Lake or similar

In the morning, buckle up for a 3-hour drive to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital, nestled among snow-capped mountains. After checking into the local hotel, we’ll visit Rudaki Park, a favorite relaxation spot for locals, where you may see children practicing roller skating, parents pushing strollers, and couples wandering hand in hand among its well-maintained flower beds and fountains. At the park’s center stands a statue of Rudaki, the founder of classical Persian literature, surrounded by colorful mosaics. Then we’ll appreciate nearby landmarks from outside, including the nine-story National Library, the glistening Palace of the Nation (White House), and the Soviet-style Parliament and Ministry of Inner Affairs, along with the Dushanbe Flagpole, which once broke the world record with a height of 165 meters (541 feet).

Our itinerary also leads you to some notable monuments, including the Stele with the Emblem of Tajikistan, erected to celebrate Tajikistan’s independence; and the Statue of Ismoil Somoni, dedicated to the national hero, who wears a 10-kilogram gold crown and holds a sun disk, standing before an arch decorated with stalactites. The country’s currency is named after him. Then, move to the National Museum, which displays artifacts from 4,000 BC to the early 20th century, such as weapons, jewelry, furniture, and embroidery. You can also peruse utensils and prayer niches used by Sogdians, as well as exquisite terracotta figures. Followed by the Navruz Palace, it is an opulent modern structure built with thousands of stones, parquet floors, gemstones, and mirrors.

Finally, we’ll visit the local bazaar, where fresh produce, spices, and cheeses are stacked in perfect pyramids, while Chakan dresses, hand drums, and intricate wooden souvenirs beckon travelers’ curiosity. The aroma from snack stalls also tempts you to fill your growling stomach, especially with Qurutob, one of Tajikistan’s national dishes. It features baked salty-cheese flatbread topped with onions, tomatoes, dill, parsley, and scallions, tasting refreshing like a salad. You can enjoy it along with Shirchoy, a warm beverage made from black tea, salt, and milk. Locals even drink it to soothe sore throats and colds. Afterwards, we’ll check into the local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Atlas Dushanbe (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, you’ll be escorted to the Dushanbe Airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s capital. As the arid landscapes of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan fade away, the misty Heavenly Mountains, expansive grasslands that resemble seas of green velvet, and rare alpine vegetation will ignite your expectations. Upon landing, our Bishkek guide and the driver will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After a brief rest, we’ll explore Bishkek, which was originally a small fortress and rest stop built by the Kokand Khanate (1709-1876) along the Silk Road and has become a vital industrial center since the late 19th century.

Our first stop is the Old Square, the city’s core during the Soviet era and now home to the Prime Minister’s Office. It will come alive during major festivals like Navruz, the Central Asian New Year, with wonderful musical performances and bustling food and game stalls. Next on your itinerary is the Oak Park, where you can admire over 90 statues in lush settings and take photos with the statue of Marx and Engels sitting on a bench. Walk south to Ala-Too Square, which has now replaced Old Square as the main venue for gatherings and cultural events. If the time is right, we’ll watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the hour. Finally, enjoy a private transfer back to the hotel, stopping outside the National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Abdylas Maldybayev for photos.

► Recommended Restaurant (at your own expense):
For dinner, you can head to the Frunze Restaurant, which exudes a subtly luxurious ambiance infused by elegant paintings, walnut decorations, and warm chandeliers. Abundant vegetarian options are served, with the Eggplant with Stracciatella, Seasonal Mushrooms, and Shiso Salad highly recommended. Afterward, treat yourself to a luscious Creamy Catalana with Berries while enjoying relaxing jazz music. Since the portions are small, it is best to order several dishes.
Average Cost per Person: KGS 1,800-2,000 (USD 21-23)
Address: American University - Central Asia, 205 Abdumomunov St, Bishkek, 720040

 Currency Tip：
The Som is Kyrgyzstan’s official currency (USD 1≈KGS90), distinct from Uzbekistan’s Sum, and they are not interchangeable. We recommend bringing USD into Kyrgyzstan and exchanging them for local Som with your passport at a downtown bank. Although ATMs are widely available, they may charge a commission of 1%-3%.

Meals: Breakfast

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

After breakfast, set off for Burana Tower, a 1-hour drive away, which stands at the heart of ancient Balasagun. Built by Sogdians during the 9th-11th centuries, Balasagun later became a key trade and craft center along the Silk Road, thanks to its strategic position in the fertile Chuy Valley. However, it lost its significance after being captured by the Mongol Empire (1206-1368). Despite turbulent wars and several earthquakes, Burana Tower survived as the only witness to Balasagun, with its height decreasing from 48 meters (157 feet) to 25 meters (82 feet). We’ll ascend to its top via the interior spiral steps to enjoy panoramic views and lush surroundings. Please participate based on your physical condition, as the stairs are narrow and steep. Observing the carved Turkic stone figures beneath is also interesting if you are afraid of heights.

Then, let’s drive 4 hours to Cholpon Ata, a resort on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, the world’s second-largest alpine lake. En route, we’ll stop at the Nomad Museum to explore diverse Turkic nomadic cultures in their exclusive exhibition space, and admire intricate textiles and traditional gear like saddles. Kyrgyzstan borders the Heavenly Mountains to the northeast and the Pamir Plateau to the southwest, making it a place where nomadic traditions are particularly well-preserved, and many locals still rely on herding for their livelihoods.

After arriving and checking into our well-selected hotel in Cholpon Ata, you can spend the rest of the day at your own leisure. Whether lounging in the sun like at a normal seacoast or diving beneath the lake to discover remnants of buildings and trees, you’ll experience a true natural escape.

Meals: Breakfast

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

Start today’s guided sightseeing with a visit to the Museum of Petroglyphs in Cholpon Ata. Most petroglyphs date back 2,000 years, and they are actually tombstones carved by Turks to commemorate their deceased relatives, like those found at Burana Tower. The main images depict men holding blades or arrows, with details from facial expressions to clothing meticulously crafted. However, some of them become blurry due to prolonged exposure to the intense sun, so why not seize this chance to appreciate these unique carvings?

Later, a 3-hour drive will bring you to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan’s fourth-largest city, known for its diverse ethnic makeup, mainly composed of Kyrgyz, Russian, and Dungan. Upon arrival, our guide will accompany you to Holy Trinity Cathedral, which is dedicated to the Russian Orthodox and rebuilt entirely from wood, replacing an earlier concrete structure after a severe earthquake. You can admire scripture murals beneath the dome and the large Tikhvin Icon, revered as the Mother of God. Each year on July 8th and 9th, local Orthodox Christians wear traditional costumes and carry the icon in a procession, seeking spiritual and physical blessings.

Our next stop is the Dungan Mosque, named after its founders – the Dungans, Muslim immigrants from northwest China who arrived after a war in the 1870s. To preserve their cultural characteristics, the Dungans built this mosque in a traditional Chinese style, featuring wooden carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and lions on its façade, which are believed to ward off disasters and evil spirits in Chinese folklore. After that, you’ll be whisked to the local hotel for rest.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Green Yard Hotel, Karakol (3 stars) or similar

Rise and shine! Let’s proceed to Skazka Canyon (Canyon Fairy Tale) after breakfast, characterized by weather-worn red and orange rocks, whose vibrant hues create a contrast against the backdrop of Kyrgyzstan’s well-known lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks. Please wear sturdy shoes for the slippery terrain. Once there, trek with our guide across rough and jagged rocks dotted with sparse shrubs, as if you’re stepping into a tactile paradise like Mars. Their surreal formations will spark your imagination with their shapes resembling dinosaurs or snakes. Some towering formations evoke the legendary Great Wall of China. Changing sunlight acts as a set designer, enhancing the rocks’ brilliance on clear days or casting mysterious shadows on cloudy days.

★ Witness the Incredible Eagle Hunting Show by Nomadic Hunters 

Then, we’ll drive to Bokonbayevo Village to meet one of the country’s professional falconers and delve into the long-held tradition of golden eagle hunting. Listen to stories about how he captures this top predator, typically a female eagle with sharper talons, and begins an intricate training process. Over 3-4 years, he sings to his bird daily to build trust and ensure he is the sole food provider. After constant flying training, the eagle is required to smell animal fur to be familiar with the prey’s scent. During the golden eagle hunting show, you’ll see the hunter on horseback raising his eagle high, then watch in awe as the eagle dives swiftly to catch a fur coat or rabbit.

After this exhilarating experience, we’ll drive 5 hours back to Bishkek and check into the local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

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

It’s time to say goodbye today. After breakfast, our driver will escort you to the airport according to your flight schedule. Wish you have enjoyed a pleasant tour with us.

If you want to explore Central Asia seamlessly and extend your trip to Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, feel free to contact our travel consultants to tailor your itinerary!

Meals: Breakfast