UZBEKISTAN: Luxury Silk Road Tour - 12 days
Tour Summary
This landlocked country of Uzbekistan sits at the heart of the famed Silk Road the ancient trading route between China and the West.
Khiva is full of history and sits like an oasis with its minaret hosting panoramic views of the town and desert beyond.
Bukhara, renowned for its 10th-century scholars and artists, is laden with 1,000 years of some of the most breathtaking and sublime buildings of central Asia. Bukhara looks much as it did 1000 years ago. Gaze up at the Kalon Minaret, a 47 metre tower, so impressive that even Genghis Khan was moved to spare its destruction. It too will take your breath away.
Shakhrisabz, home of Amir Temur or Tamerlane and his magnificent Ak-Saray Palace (White Palace) with only some of the pillars and part of the arch of the main portal remain for the world to see.
Samarkand, the city of myth and fable, is synonymous with the exoticism of the Silk Road. Known as the city of Tamerlane, this noble city with its dazzling blue domes rising intricately in the city skyline and the splendid and majestic Registan that is the centre of all things in Samarkand.
Tashkent started as an oasis city and was a main link between East and West on the great Silk Road, becoming one of the richest cities in Central Asia.
All are massive open-air museums in their own right. Travellers can experience a fabulous journey into the past and walk where weary caravans once refreshed themselves. Join us and visit this fascinating region that is still blessed with some dazzling reminders of its glorious heyday.
Destinations: Uzbekistan; Tashkent | Khiva | Bukhara (Shakhrisabz) Samarkand | Tashkent
Tour Commences In: Tashkent
Tour Concludes In: Tashkent
Tour Style: Luxury boutique journey
Accommodation: Deluxe & Boutique Hotels
Meals: Breakfasts; 10: Lunches; 10: Dinners; 9:
Leaders: Professional private local bilingual guide
Number of Days: 12 days / 11 Nights
Transportation: Luxury private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles, domestic flight, luxury train journey
Tour Grading: MODERATE; Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and mobility
Tour Highlights
Explore the amazing Chorsu bazaar
Marvel at carpet workshops using traditional methods in Samarkand & Khiva
Buy the best local Suzani’s (hand embroidery) on sale in Bukhara & the local market at Urgut
Experience ‘Suzani making’ in Samarkand
Marvel at the Golden Embroidery workshop
Discover traditional golden embroidery & silk fabric making, Bukhara
Be impressed by the old Bukhara textiles in Akbar’s House
Be in awe of Registan and its Madrassah’s
Enjoy wonderful cuisine and regional delicacies
Tour Itinerary & Hotels
Day 1: Arrive Tashkent:
Welcome to Uzbekistan. You will be greeted at the international airport in Tashkent by your tour guide and then transferred to your hotel.
Tashkent is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. In the Middle Ages, Tashkent near the foothills of the Tien Shan Mountains stood at the crossroads of the caravan routes from Europe to Asia, and from Siberia, China and India to the Middle East and Europe. Although it is more than 2,000 years old, many of Tashkent’s ancient monuments were destroyed by conquerors, time and by the earthquake of 1966. But today the city is lovelier than ever. Parks and gardens occupy almost one third of its area. It is the cosmopolitan town of free lined streets, shops, bridges and elegant parklands. Together with Tashkent’s architecture, which combines modern forms with traditional ornaments, Tashkent is a delightful city.
Day 2: Tashkent: (B/L/D)
This morning you will be meet by your tour guide for an excursion to the Khazret-Iman Complex, the Bara-Khon Madrassah is the headquarters of the Sunni Muslim religion in the region and has interesting mosaics and Arabic calligraphy that dates back to the late 16th century. Tellya Sheikh Madrassah and Archives (Osman Koran), Juma Mosque and next to the Old Town and under the green dome of Chorsu Bazaar lies a famous farmers market that is one of the largest and oldest in central Asia. On a hill behind the bazaar is the 16th century Kulkedash Madrassah (external visit)– an Islamic school that sits beside the 15th century Juma (Friday) Mosque. After lunch at a tradition Uzbek restaurant, we visit the amazing State Museum of Applied Art in the old quarter which has a fantastic collection of Uzbek workmanship and a gallery of the finest ceramics in the country. Amir Temur Square is the main square in town and use to contain a statue of Karl Marx, but he has been replaced by a statue of Uzbekistan’s 14th century national hero, Temur, on horse-back.
Day 3: Tashkent - Khiva: (B/L/D)
This morning you have a very early start leaving the hotel at dawn and transfering to the airport for your flight to Urgench. On arrival into Urgench we will drive to the fabled city of Khiva. This old city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As legend has it, this place has a history that dates back to the time of Shem, son of Noah. A settlement was certainly established here by the 8thcentury AD and began to flourish in the early 16th century. A colourful procession of conquering khans, Silk Road traders, Great Game spies and Russian invaders has long captured the imagination of writers and poets. It is also a photographer's delight, particularly in the evenings when the sun begins to set. This beautifully preserved town is perfect for exploring on foot, with impressive walls that mark the boundaries of the old city. Upon entering through its gates, you will be greeted by towering minarets and numerous madressas. Your guide takes you through many of these monuments including the Kalta Minor Minaret and Mohammed Rakhim Khan Madrassah, the 17th century Juma Mosque, the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Madrassah (built in 1908 and the highest structure in Khiva), the Kuhna Ark, which was the main fortress, the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum complex (the Persian-style resting place of Khiva’s patron saint) and Toza Bog Palace, which between 1893-1913 was the summer palace of Mohammed Rakhim Khan II. Dinner this evening will be under the stars. (Weather permitting)
Day 4: Khiva: B/L
This morning, continue to explore one of the oldest cities of the great Silk Road from the second century AD with your local guide. There are many historical monuments to discover. This afternoon is at your leisure.
Day 5: Khiva – Bukhara: B/L/D
Depart Khiva this morning and transfer to Bukhara by comfortable train #50 08:45-14:50 (soft seats). Along the way you travel through the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Sands Desert), the largest desert area in central Asia and inhabited by various nomadic people. You also cross the Amu Darya River, which was once known as the Oxus. This river bubbles up far to the south-east in the Pamirs and then runs west through the area now bordering modern Afghanistan – once famous throughout the ancient world for its lapis-lazuli mines. Curling slowly northward the river bisects the Kyzyl-Kum and Kara-Kum (Black Sands Desert), before stretching toward the southern tip of the shrinking Aral Sea. It was the Greeks who named this area ‘Transoxiana’ – literally ‘beyond the river’ – a name that echoes through the ages in literature and poetry and also in the imagination of travellers. With the impressive sights of Bukhara and Samarkand ahead of you, this journey is an ideal opportunity to catch up on some reading, or simply sit back and imagine you are a trader - relieved to have made it safely through the desert. Arriving into the holy city of Bukhara enjoy a free moment to absorb its ambience.
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is one of the most ancient and incredible cities in the world and is widely regarded as Central Asia’s holiest city. Bukhara preserved its treasures of architecture of the pre-Mongol period. Thus often the City of Bukhara is considered as an open air Museum. The majority of the sites lie scattered around the old city, ‘Shakhristan’ and are most easily reached on foot. Bukhara is truly a magical place and it is sure to cast its spell on you too!
Day 6: Bukhara: (B/L/D)
This morning, with your local guide visit Labi Khaus Complex ("the complex around the pond"), Nadir Divan Begi Khanaka (old hotel for merchants) Labi Khaus pond dates from the XVIIth century when it was the principal source of water for the town. Sightseeing continues through the trade domes that still offer an intriguing and colourful array of goods including spices, embroideries, jewellery, handicrafts of silk carpets, hat sellers, puppets and all manner of Silk Road treasures. This is the place to test your haggling skills, as well as share a joke or two with friendly local merchants. Tour the Magoki Attari site which was originally a Zoroastrian temple, Abdulazizkhan Madreseh with its sandali (old version of house heating) and the Poi-Kalon Ensemble with the greatest minaret of Central Asia. This evening enjoy dinner in a local restaurant with a wonderful panoramic view of the old city.
Day 7: Bukhara: (B/L/D)
This morning take a short drive to Chor Minor, a jewel of 16th-century architecture. It is a unique structure with four minarets – one on each corner. It was built in 1807 by Turkmen merchant, Khalif Niyazkul. Continue down the narrow streets of old Bukhara to the old Jewish quarter. See one of the city’s hidden gems, the Jewish synagogue, which houses a collection of ancient Torahs dating back about 600 years. Discover ancient winter residence of local rulers from the first century which is located near Bolo Khaus Mosque. Visit the imposing Ark (fortress) of the Bukhara Emirs, and walk through this building full of great history. (Perhaps ask where Connolly & Stoddart famously met their fate in 1848.) After lunch, visit an outstanding Persian Samanid brick mausoleum reputed to be the oldest mosque in central Asia. Continue on to Bukhara's city limits to visit the magnificent ‘Sitorai Mohi-Khossa Palace’ (The Palace of Moon and Stars).the Summer Palace, residence of the last Emir of Bukhara. Its opulence is also reflected by its combination of local and European influences in its designs and furnishings. The halls are richly decorated with mirrors and a vase room is one of the many highlights as is the exceptional ‘White Hall’.
This evening enjoy a Folklore show featuring local dancers, singers and fashion stars.
Day 8: Bukhara – Shakhrisabz – Samarkand: (B/L/D)
Following breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive the Golden Road to Samarkand via Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Temur. (perhaps better known in the West as Tamerlane) Here, he built an enormous Ak-Saroy Palace, (the White Palace) of which only part of the beautifully ornamented building remains. Continue on and tour the Khazrati Imom mosque, and the exquisite blue-tiled Kok Gumbaz mosque. Continue your drive alongside the Zerafshan mountains to Samarkand.
Samarkand is the city with more than 3000 years history. It was the site of the marriage of Alexander the Great to the local princess Roxana. Perhaps the most well-known of Silk Road cities, we will enjoy a couple of days of sightseeing and exploring Samarkand, a city that evokes the romance of the Silk Road perhaps more than any other. From its foundation in the 5th century BC, this crossroads of cultures, religions, peoples and languages has been a centre of artisans and traders as well as the prize for many a conquering army. Alexander the Great stormed its walls in 329 BC and many other rulers chose to make it their capital in the centuries that followed including Genghis Khan and Tamerlane. Even the Soviet occupiers declared it the original capital of the Uzbek SSR in 1924, although it only kept that honour for four years!
Day 9: Samarkand: (B/L/D)
This morning visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque built by Temur and often compared to the Taj Mahal, as it was also built as a grand and timeless symbol of a man's love for his wife. This mosque overlooks the busy and colourful Siob Bazaar, where there are many bustling stalls and huge array of produce, as well as encounter friendly greetings from the local traders. Your next stop is the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis complex, an extraordinary collection of more than 20 mausoleums, which feature exquisitely decorated colourful tile work majolica facades. One of the many highlights of this tour is the iconic Registan Square with the three madrassah’s (Ulugbek, Sher Dor and Tilla-Kari) towering over us. The ensemble consists of three Madrassah: Ulugbek Madrassah (15th century), Sher – Dor Madrassah (17th century) and Tilla-Kari Madrassah (gold covered – 17th century).
Day 10: Samarkand: (B/L/D)
Today visit the Gur Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the mighty Temur and his sons and grandsons. For a man of his stature, it is quite a simple tomb. Then drive to the Observatory of Ulug Beg, Tamerlane’s astronomer grandson. The discovery of the ruins of his observatory in the last century tells of an amazing story from a bygone era. After lunch tour the nearby Afrosiyob Museum of History, Culture and Art. When the Muslims invaded this region they destroyed the earlier Sogdian city of Afrosiyab, which is now a huge mound on Samarkand's flank. The Sogdians had been renowned traders along the silk route. This afternoon is at your leisure. Perhaps you may like to return to the many stalls nestled in the Registan Ensemble to find that perfect souvenir.
Day 11: Samarkand – Tashkent: (B/L/D)
Drive to Tashkent. Stopping near the "gate" of Amur Temur where two mountain ranges meet. This offers an opportunity to photograph two great mountain ranges of Uzbekistan and see the ancient river stream. On arrival you will have lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch visit the “The Monument of Courage” dedicated to the city of Tashkent which suffered an earthquake which took place on April 26, 1966. Mustakillik Square (Independence Square) is the main and most beautiful square of the Tashkent. The entrance to the square opens with Arch of ‘good and noble aspirations’. Continue driving to Bunyodkor Square (Friendship of Peoples Square) it is one of the most modern in the city. Visit an art gallery that features hand-made crafts and clothing, ranging from full outfits to purses to beautiful hand-painted tea sets and ceramics and all made in original national style. It is also a great place to buy Uzbek souvenirs.
Day 12: Depart Tashkent:
Your journey concludes this morning. Your guide will accompany you to the airport for you onward or homebound flight.
Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. We are able to organise a private guide to accompany you. Some guests may wish to stay another day or more. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.
Our specially curated itineraries are carefully planned and well thought out to ensure you are rewarded with the best experiences. The magic of travelling in private tours allows us to cater for spontaneity and sometimes we often find some wonderful surprises along the way and it can be these unplanned occurrences that are the most memorable. The rich tapestry of experiences and the characters you meet along the way will make this guided private tour something special and one you will remember for a lifetime.
Please Contact Us for further information.
Flexibility
The itinerary may be flexible, sometimes due to weather or sometimes for sites or events which guests may wish to see. If there is something not included in this suggested itinerary that you would like to do or see, please contact us to discuss if it is possible.
FERGANA VALLEY EXTENSION TOUR
Day 1: Tashkent – Kokand – Richtan – Ferghana: (B/L/D)
This morning depart early to drive to Ferghana Valley. You will travel by car through the mountainous Kamcik Pass which occasionally has poor road conditions.
Ferghana City is the administrative centre of Ferghana Region and an important industrial centre of Uzbekistan.
On the way stop in the ancient city of Kokand, centre of the Khanate of Kokand. Visit the Khudoyar-Khan Palace & Museum. Some of buildings and all the gardens have recently been rebuilt / refurbished) Raised to the level of fine art by Uzbek masters is wood carving; apparently it has no match in the world. Covered with intricate engraved patterns, there are wall panels, caskets and boxes, the little national table khantaxta with hexahedral or octahedral top made of walnut, beech or plane trees, and the fascinating laukh (a stand for the Koran).
In Kokand you also visit Madrassah Jami, a centre with a myriad of workshops; observe the workers delicately crafting their craft. After lunch continue to Rishton. Here, visit two ceramic studios and watch as skilled craftsmen make and decorate the plates, bowls, pitchers, etc. Both very different.
Visit another family studio and observe skilled craftsmen make wool carpets. Watch or even participate in this fine fingered art. Continue driving to your hotel in Fergana.
Day 2: Ferghana-Margilan-Andijan-Ferghana: (B/L/D)
This morning we drive to Margilan and along the road you will start to notice the mulberry trees that are essential to the silk production in this area of Uzbekistan. Our first stop will be fascinating Kumtepa Bazaar (Thursday Bazaar) where you can mingle with the locals. Then it’s onto the famous Yodgarlik Silk factory and silk IKAT Weaving Centre and observe young apprentices make the beautiful bold patterned silk ikat that this region if known for. Original handmade methods of silk production have remained. Everything is done in the traditional manner. The weavers from Margilan make semi-silk adras, plain silk shoi, and famous worldwide khan-atlas: blazing with all the colours of rainbow, or exquisite black and white pattern with shining veins of blue or green silk fabric manufactured here is considered as one of the best in Central Asia. We also visit the Margilan Craft Centre, supported by UNESCO and housed in a historic Madrassah. Of special interest here is the velvet ikat weaving workshop, famous for supplying Rasuljons fabrics to Oscar de La Renta.
After the workshop we proceed to a hand block printer’s workshop where the master works with natural (and some chemical) dyes to produce the traditional woodblock printed cloths. Visit the workshop of hereditary weaving of a master, they specialise in bakhmal – silk velvet ikat.
Later return to your hotel
Day 3: Ferghana – Chust – Ahsikent – Tashkent: (B/L)
This morning check out of your hotel and drive to Chust, famous for its skull caps. Here you will visit a master skull cap maker’s home.
Later return to Tashkent stopping at the right bank of Syrdarya river (formerly the Jaxartes). Take in the panoramic view of the ruins of mediaeval Ahsikent city. Parts of the ancient, underground water collection system kyariz (developed in Persia) still remain. After lunch continue your drive to Tashkent.
Day 4: Depart Tashkent:
Your bespoke private tour concludes after breakfast.
At your leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward or homebound journey.
Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. We are able to organise a private guide to accompany you. Some guests may wish to stay another day or more. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.
Our specially curated itineraries are carefully planned and well thought out to ensure you are rewarded with the best experiences. The magic of travelling in private tours allows us to cater for spontaneity and sometimes we often find some wonderful surprises along the way and it can be these unplanned occurrences that are the most memorable. The rich tapestry of experiences and the characters you meet along the way will make this guided private tour something special and one you will remember for a lifetime.
Please Contact Us for further information.
Flexibility
The itinerary may be flexible, sometimes due to weather or sometimes for sites or events which guests may wish to see. If there is something not included in this suggested itinerary that you would like to do or see, please contact us to discuss if it is possible.
Suggested Hotels
Radison Blue Hotel
Asia Bukhara Hotel
Grand Samakand Hotel
Tour Inclusions
A specially curated itinerary for Boutique Journeys
Exclusive private airport arrival and departure transfers for all guests
Domestic Economy Class Flight – Tashkent / Khiva
Domestic Train travel – Khiva / Bukhara
Modern & Boutique hotel accommodation
Meals as indicated in Itinerary; B = Breakfast: L = Lunch: D = Dinner:
Private services of a professional bilingual tour guide
Concierge Services throughout tour
Luxury private air-conditioned vehicles for all your transportation
Admission fees to all sightseeing & shows
Porterage, tipping and gratuities except to professional guide
An exclusive BT&T Travel Information Booklet
Bottled water whilst touring in vehicle
Not included: Not Included:
International airfares
Arrival & Departure Taxes, levies or other charges
Passport & Visa Fees
City Taxes for hotels if required
Personal Travel Insurance
Excess baggage charges
Cost of any ‘luggage delivery’. – via FedEx or postal services
Late check-out at hotels
Porterage and gratuities on your arrival at airport and hotel and in free time
Extra gratuities to tour guides and drivers and others.
Meals and Alcoholic beverages not included in the itinerary
Expenditure of personal nature
Optional activities not included in tour
Country Information
Accommodation:
We offer Deluxe and Boutique hotel accommodation for this Uzbekistan Tour. All rooms have modern facilities, private bathrooms with double or two twin beds.
Climate & Clothing:
The best time to travel to Uzbekistan is in spring and autumn; March to May and mid August to November. The majority of rain falls in the summer months, whilst the coldest period is January to February.
The general rule is to bring comfortable clothing including lightweight cottons for the warmer months and warmer clothing for the cooler months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as is a light waterproof jacket. We provide a detailed packing list to all our guests prior to departure.
Currency & Money Matters:
Uzbekistan currency is called Uzbek Som. Currency code: UZS. One Uzbek Som = 100 tiyn. Notes are in denominations of Som 500, 200, 100, 50, 25, 5, 3 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 25, 10 and 5 som. We recommend that you take a combination of cash and credit cards Major foreign credit cards are only acceptable in a few designated shops, hotels and large restaurants. We highly recommend you bring US Dollars in small denominations
Electricity:
There are about four electric plug types with the most common plug being a two narrow pin "Type C" & "Type E/F".
Insurance:
You must be comprehensively insured as a condition of travelling with Boutique Travel & Tours. We recommend that you purchase insurance at the time of Booking. Boutique Tours & Travel is able to assist you in arranging your Insurance.
Language:
The official language is Uzbek. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of Uzbekistan.
Meals:
Our hotels offer a wonderful selection of dishes at their buffet breakfasts and we offer a wide variety of both menu and venue for lunches and evening meals.
Medical Services & Facilities:
All our hotels have access to a doctor if required. They can also assist guests with purchasing of medicine. The international hospitals throughout Uzbekistan are excellent and have western trained medical and surgical specialists. Dental care is also available.
Passports & Visas:
To enter Uzbekistan you require a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and with at least two blank pages. A Visa is required for all guests and is to be organised prior to departure. Boutique Tours & Travel is able to arrange your Visa.
Special Requests:
Specific requests such as adjacent or connecting rooms, bedding requests, smoking or non-smoking rooms and special dietary needs or any other arrangement should be advised at time of booking. Please note that every effort will be made to secure your special request; however, they cannot always be guaranteed.
Time Zone:
Despite the size of the country, Uzbekistan is standard time throughout. GMT +5.
Tipping:
We know that some of our guests are not familiar with tipping so any gratuities (eg to waiters, bellhops etc) are taken care of as part of your fee but f you wish to Tip individually please do so. Gratuities & tips to Guide & Driver would gratefully be received. Thank you
Transport:
We use modern luxury and deluxe cars and minibuses. These are spacious, comfortable, well maintained safe vehicles. We also walk where and when it’s suitable.
Water & Beverages:
Our hotels offer bottled water, and soft drinks. Bottled water is provided everyday on tour when in vehicle. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the cost of this tour.
