Best of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan

Assistance on arrival at Dushanbe International airport

Welcome to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition. Upon arrival at Dushanbe International Airport, clear immigration and visa formalities, collect your baggage and proceed through the green channel if you have no goods to declare to customs. In the arrival lounge, look for a TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS executive holding a placard with your name, who will assist you with your transfer to your accommodation.

City tour of Dushanbe

Today, enjoy the city's rich culture and history with a city tour. Begin by visiting the Ismoili Somoni monument, a tribute to the founder of the Tajik state. Rudaki Park, is named after the great Persian poet Rudaki. In the center of the city, marvel at one of the world's tallest flagpoles, a symbol of Tajikistan's national pride. Continue your tour with a visit to the Tajikistan State Museum, where you can delve into the country's rich history and culture through its impressive exhibits. Then, explore Victory Park, a peaceful retreat dedicated to the memory of those who fought for Tajikistan's independence. In the afternoon, wander through the bustling Mehrgon Bazaar, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. In the evening, enjoy some free time to relax.

Travel to Penjikent

Today, embark on a scenic journey from Dushanbe to Penjikent, a city with a rich history dating back 5500 years. Travel through the picturesque Varzob Valley and Anzob pass-tunnel, taking in the breathtaking mountain scenery along the way. Your destination is Lake Iskander Kul, also known as Alexander the Great Lake, nestled in the heart of the Fan Mountains. This stunning alpine lake is named after the legendary conqueror Alexander the Great, who is said to have passed through this region during his campaigns. Penjikent itself is one of the easternmost settlements of the ancient Sogdiana Empire, known for its ancient ruins and rich archaeological sites.

Check-in at hotel and half day city tour of Penjikent

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation. Later in the afternoon, embark on a city tour of Penjikent, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its rich history and archaeological sites. Visit the Penjikent excavation sites, where you can witness the remains of ancient buildings and gain insight into the city's past. The Museum of Archaeology is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts dating from the Bronze Age to the Sogdian era. Conclude your day by visiting the Rudaki Museum, located in the center of town. Named after the renowned Persian poet Rudaki, this museum showcases a diverse collection of exhibits related to local history, culture, and art.

Travel to Samarkand

After breakfast, check-out and embark on a scenic drive to the Sarazm/Jartepa border. Upon crossing the border, continue your journey into Uzbekistan towards the historic city of Samarkand, a city steeped in history and renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural heritage.

Check-in at hotel

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Full day city tour of Samarkand

Today, we embark on a fascinating exploration of the fabled city of Samarkand, renowned as one of the oldest cities in the world and a jewel of the Silk Road. Starting with a visit to the iconic Registan Square, a stunning ensemble of 17th-century madrasahs adorned with intricate tile work and majestic domes. Gur Emir, the mausoleum of the Great Tamerlane, is a monumental masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Ulugbek Observatory, where we explore the remains of the 15th-century astronomical observatory built by the scholar and ruler Ulugbek. In the evening, you are free to relax or further explore the city. You may choose to visit the famous Siyob Bazaar, a bustling market offering a variety of local goods, spices, and handicrafts, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Samarkand.

Travel to Bukhara via Shakhrisabz

Travel to Bukhara with an en-route stop at Shakhrisabz, the historic hometown of Tamerlane and one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. In Shakhrisabz, visit notable historical sites including the Koba Caravanserai, an ancient rest stop for Silk Road travelers, along with other significant landmarks that reflect the city's rich heritage. After exploring Shakhrisabz, continue your journey to Bukhara, immersing yourself in the region's deep historical and cultural significance along the way.

Check-in at hotel

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Full day city tour of Bukhara

Embark on a captivating architecture and cultural tour of Bukhara visiting Ark Citadel, a historic fortress that once served as a royal palace, offering insights into Bukhara's ancient past. Mausoleum of the Samanids, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture and one of the oldest surviving buildings in Central Asia. Picturesque Lyabi Khauz Square, a charming plaza surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with local life. Explore the architectural complex of Poi Kalon, which includes the iconic Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Miri-Arab Madrasah, showcasing the grandeur of Bukhara's Islamic architecture. Conclude your day by strolling through the Toki Zargaron trade domes, and ancient marketplaces that have been trading hubs for centuries, and marvel at the intricate design of the Magok-i-Attori Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Bukhara.

Half day city tour of Bukhara and travel to Taskent

In the morning, check out and enjoy the half day city of Bukhara before traveling to Tashkent. Start with the distinctive Chor Minor Mosque, renowned for its four unique minarets and the blend of cultural influences. Explore the opulent Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of Bukhara's last Emir, which beautifully combines Russian and Oriental architecture. Visit the spiritually significant Bakhouddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum and the encompassing Naqshbandiy Complex, dedicated to the founder of the Naqshbandi Sufi order. Finally, marvel at the Chor Bakr Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an ancient cemetery with stunning architecture and tombs, offering a profound insight into the region's historical and religious legacy. Later travel to Tashkent, Uzbekistan's vibrant capital, known for its modern architecture, bustling bazaars, and rich cultural heritage.

Check-in at hotel

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Full day city tour of Tashkent

In the morning, begin your city tour with a visit to the Museum of Applied Art, showcasing Uzbekistan's finest crafts. Next, explore Independence Square, a symbol of the nation's sovereignty, followed by a visit to Alisher Navoi Theatre Square, home to the grand opera and ballet theatre. Discover the historical Romanov Palace, a relic from the Russian Empire, and marvel at the intricate architecture of the famous Madrasahs and Mausoleums, which offer a glimpse into the region's Islamic heritage. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the sprawling Chorsu Bazaar. This bustling marketplace is a sensory delight, offering a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and scents. Here, you can experience everyday life in Tashkent, engage with friendly locals, and sample a variety of traditional foods, spices, and handicrafts. This vibrant bazaar encapsulates the essence of Tashkent, blending the old with the new in a lively, cultural mosaic.

Train to Kokand

In the morning, departure transfer to the Railway station to board the train to Kokand, nestled in the Fergana Valley, which is renowned for its historical architecture.

Arrive Kokand and half day city tour; later travel to Margilan

Upon arrival at the railway station, proceed for a half-day city tour of Kokand by visiting the majestic Khudoyar Khan’s Palace, an architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur of Kokand’s royal history with its intricate designs and expansive courtyards. Dahmai Shahon (Grave of Kings), is a revered site where several of Kokand’s former rulers are buried. Later travel to Margilan, making a stop en route to visit a renowned ceramist's workshop. Here, you will get an in-depth look at the intricate process of crafting Rishtan ceramics, famous for their beautiful patterns and vibrant colors. Observe the detailed techniques used in shaping, glazing, and firing these exquisite pieces. Margilan is renowned for its exquisite silk production and vibrant traditional crafts.

Check-in at hotel

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Half day city tour and travel to Osh

Today, check-out and proceed for a half-day city tour visiting the 19th-century Madrassah of Said Ahmad, an architectural gem showcasing the rich history of the region and silk factory where you can observe the entire process of silk production, from the initial stages of spinning and dyeing to the intricate art of weaving and sewing. Later embark on a journey across the border to Osh in Kyrgyzstan, a country celebrated for its vibrant nomadic culture and traditions.

Check-in at hotel and half day city tour

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation. Later, embark on a half-day city tour starting with a visit to the sacred Suleiman’s Throne, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important place of pilgrimage offering panoramic views of the city. The new museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the region's history and culture. Conclude your tour at Jayma Bazaar, a bustling market that has been a hub of trade for around 2,000 years, where you can experience the vibrant local commerce and find a variety of goods, from fresh produce to traditional crafts.

Flight to Bishkek

Departure transfer to the Airport to board a flight to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is known for its wide boulevards, Soviet-era architecture, and bustling bazaars, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.

Arrival transfer to the hotel

Upon arrival at the airport and you will be transferred to your accommodation with the rest of your day at leisure.

Full day city tour of Bishkek

Today, enjoy the city tour of Bishkek, starting with a visit to the Historical and Applied Arts Museum, where you can admire a diverse collection of artworks and artifacts showcasing the cultural heritage of the region. Ala-Too Square, the bustling heart of Bishkek and a focal point for national celebrations and events. Stroll through the square, taking in the grandeur of the surrounding government buildings and monuments. Continue your exploration at Osh Bazaar, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia, offering a wide array of goods, from fresh produce to local crafts. In the evening, you have free time to relax or further explore the area at your own pace, perhaps sampling local cuisine or enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife.

Travel to Karakol

In the morning check-out and take a scenic drive alongside the shores of the magnificent Issyk-Kul Lake to Karakol, offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a gateway to the spectacular Tian Shan mountains.

Check-in at hotel and half day city tour

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation. Later in the afternoon, enjoy the half day city tour by visiting Cholpon-Ata, home to a vast open-air collection of rock carvings dating back to the 2nd millennium BCE, known as the Stone Garden. Marvel at these ancient petroglyphs, depicting animals, hunters, and rituals, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. The Museum of History, where you can admire a grand collection of national embroidery, showcasing intricate designs and craftsmanship unique to Kyrgyz culture.

Half day city tour and travel to Bokonbaevo

In the morning, check-out and embark on a half-day city tour of Karakol town, which was founded in 1869 and features architecture from the Tsarist era, showcasing its old Russian style. Our tour includes a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, a beautiful wooden structure constructed in 1896, which has withstood the test of time and multiple reconstructions. We will also visit the Chinese pagoda-style mosque, built in 1899 by the Dungan community, known for its unique architectural design without the use of nails. Later in the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to Bokonbaevo, where you will be surrounded by the stunning snowcapped peaks of the Terskei and Kungei Ala-Tau Mountain ranges.

Check-in at the hotel and learn to make Kyrgyz bread

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Later learn to make Boorsok, the famous Kyrgyz Bread.

Traditional techniques of Eagle hunting and travel to Bishkek

This morning, experience a captivating demonstration of traditional hunting with eagles, known as falconry. This ancient practice, integral to the nomadic lifestyle, involves training and using eagles for hunting. The eagles, kept as cherished pets, showcase their remarkable skills and the deep bond they share with their handlers. Witnessing this demonstration offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage and survival techniques passed down through generations. Later travel to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is known for its wide boulevards, Soviet-era architecture, and bustling bazaars, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.

Check-in at hotel

On arrival, check-in at your accommodation and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Departure transfer to Airport

After breakfast, departure transfer to the Airport to board your flight to onward destination.