13D Highlights of Central Asia

Price from $8658 per person on twin sharing basis

Tashkent – Samarkand – Penjikent – Gijduvan – Bukahara – Khiva – Tashkent

Embark on a journey through the heart of Central Asia, tracing the storied paths of the ancient Silk Road. Begin in Tashkent, a vibrant capital where modern life and Soviet-era architecture meet. Continue to Samarkand, the jewel of Timur’s empire, where the azure domes of Registan Square shimmer in the sun. Cross into Tajikistan to explore Penjikent, rich with archaeological sites and Persian heritage, before returning to Uzbekistan to visit Gijduvan, famed for its centuries-old ceramic artistry. Wander the timeless streets of Bukhara, a living museum of caravansaries, madrasahs, and minarets, then traverse the desert to Khiva, a perfectly preserved walled city that feels like stepping into the past. Conclude your adventure in Tashkent with memories of Oriental bazaars, intricate tilework, warm hospitality, and the enduring spirit of the Silk Road.

ltinerary

Day 1

Tashkent

Arrival at airport & transfer to hotel, Later, visit Old City, Khazrati Imom Complex, (Kaffal Sashiy Mausoleum, Barak Khan Medressah, Library with holy Koran) & Tila Shaikh Mosque, Chorsu Bazaar & Kukeldash Madrassah. Later we shall visit Mustakilliq Square, Romanov’s Palace (outside) & The Museum of Applied Arts.

Day 2

Tashkent – Samarkand (B)

Transfer to the railway station for fast train Afrosiyob 768 to Samarkand Meeting on arrival and start sightseeing tour of Samarkand, we shall visit Gur Emir (the Mausoleum of Tamerlane), Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Mosque & The Silk Road Bazaar.

Day 3

Samarkand (B)

Full day city tour of Samarkand. Visit Shakhi Zinda Necropolis, Khazrat Khizr Mosque, Afrosiab Museum, Ulugbek`s Observatory & the Konigil Meros Paper Factory, El-Merosi Theater of National Costume.

Day 4

Samarkand – Penjikent - Samarkand (B)

Transfer to Uzbek-Tajik border (Jarteppa). After border formalities meet with your guide & driver and proceed to Penjikent city.

Drive to Marghuzor and visit Soya Lake. Translating as "shadow", due to this lake's geographical position between high cliffs, the third lake, Gushor, is situated a mere 400 meters from Soya. Fourth lake, called Nofin, is the central lake translates as "umbilical cord" The fifth lake, situated 1.5 km away from Nofin and passing through the beautiful village of Pardut is the Khurdak lake, The sixth lake, Marguzor, is the largest and, to many people, the most beautiful of the Seven Lakes.

Late afternoon return to Tajik-Uzbek border and after border formalities transfer to hotel in Samarkand.

Day 5

Samarkand – Gijduvan – Bukhara (B)

Transfer to Bukhara by road via Gijduvan. On arrival we shall have an exclusive visit of Alisher Nazullaev’s workshop with a meeting session with him. He will show us all his methods of pottery making and designing in the work shop. Also we shall be seeing his display and sales center which has been visited by many dignitaries in the past. The workshop is in a big area with a fire blast for firing his pottery. Depart to Bukhara (47 kms or 1hr).

Day 6

Bukhara (B)

Today we will visit Chor Minor madrassah, Lyabikhauz, madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi, Tilpak Furushan – the hat sellers’ market, madrassahs of Abdulaziz Khan and Ulugbek and afterwards we shall see the grand minaret known as Poi Kalon and the Mosque nearby is one of grandest of pre-Mongol period monuments. Afternoon visit Ark Fortress, the Balakhauz mosque, Ismail Samanid mausoleum, the Chasma Ayub (Job’s Spring). If time allows, visit Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa, the summer palace of the last emir of Bukhara.

Day 7

Bukhara – Khiva

Morning departure for Khiva via the Kizilkum (red sands) enroute stop at the sight of Amudarya (Oxus river) Arrive in the late afternoon and transfer to Hotel.

Day 8

Khiva – Tashkent (B)

Full day sightseeing tour of Khiva we shall visit – Ichan Kala, Kalta Minor, Kunya Ark, madrassah Rakhimkhon, later proceed to see mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud, Islam Khodja minaret and museum, Friday Mosque and Tashauli Palace/harem. Later in the afternoon free walks in the walled city. Transfer to Urgench Airport for flight to Tashkent.

Day 9

Tashkent – Bishkek (B)

Transfer to Tashkent Airport for flight to Bishkek. Upon arrival you will meet the guide and transfer to the hotel. Start sightseeing tour: visit Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, Statue of Manas. See Philharmonic Hall and Victory Monument – bright examples of Soviet architecture.

Day 10

Bishkek – Issyk – Kul (B)

In the morning transfer to Issyk-Kul (250 km, 4-5 h.), the second largest mountain lake in the world (1600 m above sea level). On the way excursion to Burana tower, what has left from the ancient city of Balasagyn (11-13 cent).In Cholpon-Ata see petroglyphs – the rock carvings made by prehistoric people lying under the open sky and visit Ethnographical Museum. Arrival at the hotel, check-in. Free time in the afternoon for swimming and rest on the beach of Issyk-Kul lake.

Day 11

Issyk-Kul – excursion to Karakol (B)

Transfer to Karakol town after breakfast (170 km, 2 h.). Visit Museum of Przhevalsky, famous Russian geographer and explorer of Central Asia. In the afternoon start city tour in Karakol: Russian Orthodox Church, Dungan Muslim Mosque and local bazaar.

Day 12

Issyk – Kul – Oguz – Bishkek (B)

In the morning, depart back to Bishkek city (400 km, 7 h.). On the way, visit Jety Oguz Gorge famous for its beautiful red sandstone rocks. Your will hear different legends about two different names of the gorge – “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart”. After excursion, continue our drive. Excursion to local felt making cooperative. Arrival to Bishkek city in the evening.

Day 13

Bishkek (B)

Transfer to airport for your flight.

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing using air-conditioned private car, local English speaking guides, entrance fees at monuments.

Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2026. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information