Highlights of The Silk Road

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.

Full-day city tour of Dushanbe

In the morning, proceed for a full-day city tour of Dushanbe by visiting the famous Museum of National Antiquities, which houses a vast collection of artifacts showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of Tajikistan. Explore the serene Botanical Gardens and the picturesque Rudaki Park, a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Stop at the impressive Ismoili Somoni monument, dedicated to the founder of the Samanid dynasty and an iconic symbol of the city. In the afternoon, travel to the ancient fortress of Hissor, known as the most precious historical site in Tajikistan. Explore the fascinating ruins of this historic stronghold, including the nearby Madrassahs and the mausoleum of Sufi saint Mahdumi Azam. This visit provides a deep dive into the historical and cultural tapestry of the region.

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 relax

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

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.

Arrival and transfer to the hotel

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation with the rest of your day to relax or free to explore the Samarkand, filled with vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and a lively atmosphere. Here, you can find a wide array of traditional goods, from intricately woven textiles and handcrafted pottery to aromatic spices and fresh produce. Strolling through the market, you'll have the opportunity to interact with friendly local vendors, sample delicious local treats, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Samarkand.

Full day city tour of Samarkand

After breakfast full day excursion program in Samarkand with a local guide, visit Afrosiyob Museum, Observatory of Ulugbek, Shakhi Zinda Necropolis, Bibi Khanum Mosque the largest mosque in Central Asia, oriental bazaar Siyab, Registan Sqaure (Sherdor Madrassah, Tilla Kari Madrassah and Ulughbek Madrassah) & Guri Emir mausoleum.

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.

Arrival transfer to the hotel

Upon arrival at the Railway station and you will be transferred to your accommodation with 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 train 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 departure transfer to the Railway station to board the train to Tashkent, Uzbekistan's vibrant capital, known for its modern architecture, bustling bazaars, and rich cultural heritage.

Arrival at airport and 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 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.

Check-in at hotel in Margilan and relax

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.

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 the hotel

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

Travel to Almaty

Today, embark on an exciting journey as you cross the border from Kyrgyzstan into Kazakhstan, heading towards the vibrant city of Almaty. Your route will take you through some of the region's most stunning landscapes, including a visit to the awe-inspiring Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the Valley of Castles due to its striking bright red rock formations that resemble ancient castles. Take some time to explore this natural wonder and appreciate its unique geological features. Continue your travel to Almaty, the city that seamlessly blends modernity with rich cultural heritage, set against the backdrop of the majestic Tian Shan mountains.

Check-in at hotel and relax

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

Full-day city tour of Almaty

In the morning, proceed for a full-day city tour of Almaty, starting with a visit to Republic Square, followed by the Abai Opera Theatre. Admire the Central Mosque with its stunning blue dome, then explore the bustling Green Market. Visit Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world, and delve into Kazakhstan's history at the Central State Museum. In the afternoon, visit the Astronomical Observatory, and then continue to the stunning Big Almaty Lake in the Tian Shan mountains. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, this pristine alpine lake offers breathtaking mountain views and a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation and photography.

Departure transfer to Airport

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