Description

The tour encompasses legendary cities of Central Asia: Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent, Panjikant, along with the most stunning mountains globally – the Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan, characterized by glaciers, turquoise lakes, and desert landscapes. We will concentrate on two themes: one is the ancient cultures that flourished in these regions, and the other is the tradition of Sufi mysticism, essential for comprehending the architecture, music, and art of Central Asia. Moreover, we will explore folklore, cuisine, and experience a different world.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Tashkent

We will arrive in Tashkent towards evening and, after dinner at one of the beautiful city’s sites, we will proceed to our hotel for the night.

Day 2 | Samarkand sites

We will take the bullet train to Samarkand, the remarkable city that was the world’s center during the era of Timur Lang (14th century). And spend the day sight seeing: Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Madrasah, the markets, Shah Zinda – the ancient site, and the palace of the kings of Sogdiana with its stunning murals. In the evening, we will enjoy a royal dinner. We will explore the story of Timur lang and the Sherawardi sheikhs, visit the Al-Harar Madrasah, and stay overnight in Samarkand.

Day 3 | In the footsteps of the lost Sogdian kingdom

We will conclude our visit to Samarkand, including a tour of the palace of the Sogdian kings, an ancient and forgotten kingdom from 2000 years ago that was conquered by the Arabs. We will then cross the border into Tajikistan, and arrive at the city of Panjakent, the last capital of the Sogdians. Here, we will explore the remains of the ancient city and palace, as well as the oldest settlement in Central Asia. The evening will be spent in Panjakent enjoying a performance by a local folklore ensemble. Overnight in Panjakent.

Day 4 | Seven Lakes in Fan mountains

We will journey to the heart of the Fan Mountains, a captivating region featuring remote glaciers, turquoise lakes, and desert landscapes. We will visit seven different turquoise blue lakes, each situated above the other, offering incredible views, including a short walk. We will continue to the mausoleum of the national poet and one of the greatest Persian poets – Rudaki. It is in these areas that Persian culture and language originated. Rudaki initiated the tradition of poetry that culminated with Rumi. Overnight in Panjakent.

Day 5 | Alexanderkul Lake

We will continue along the picturesque mountain roads to Iskanderkul Lake, where Alexander the Great found some peace of mind. We will hike to the nearby waterfall and explore the beautiful areas surrounding the lake. Overnight at Iskanderkul Lake.

Day 6 | Yaghanob Valley and Dushanbe

We will travel to the picturesque Yaghnob Valley, where the Sogdian people found refuge from the Muslims and preserved their ancient language and traditions. In the afternoon, we will make our way to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, and begin to explore the beautiful city, including a visit to the Museum of Musical Instruments. Overnight in Dushanbe.

Day 7 | Dushanbe and the Ismaili

We will explore the beautiful capital of Tajikistan, including the center of the Ismaili sect, which is considered one of the most stunning buildings in the world. The Ismaili sect is a mystical Islamic group led by the Aga Khan of London. We will also visit the historical museum to see amazing Buddhist relics, and explore other sites in and near the city. Overnight in Dushanbe.

Day 8 | Samarkand Sufi sites

We will drive back along the mountain roads to Samarkand, and in the afternoon and we will explore a little-known complex of the Naqshbandi Sufi order associated with the great teacher Al-Harar, and learn about the significance of this order in Central Asia. Overnight stay in Samarkand.

Day 9 | Beautiful Bukhara

We will take the high-speed train to Bukhara and begin our exploration of the beautiful city, including the Jewish quarter. We will visit the synagogue, the stunning madrasahs, the Libi Hauz pool, and the central mosque Poyi-Kalon – the Giant’s Foot. We will also observe local craftsmen at work and have time to shop in the rich markets. Additionally, we will delve into the architecture and sacred Muslim art. Overnight stay in Bukhara.

Day 10 | The Masters of Central Asia

This day will be dedicated to exploring areas related to the Sufis, particularly the Naqshbandi Order, around Bukhara. In the first part of the day, we will travel to the world center of the order,  Bakhouddin Naqshband complex and mausoleum in the village of Qasr-i Arifan, where we will see the beautiful gardens, buildings, and the museum detailing the history of the order, and learn about their practice of silent remembrance. In the afternoon, we will continue to the remarkable site of Chor Bakr, reminiscent of the tales of Gurdjieff, and then return to Bukhara. Overnight stay in Bukhara.

Day 11 | Tashkent

We will travel by high-speed train from Bukhara to Tashkent, and upon arrival, we will enjoy some of the modern aspects of the city, including museums and parks. the fountain area and the district known as Hollywood, culminating our journey with a festive dinner. Overnight stay in Tashkent.

Day 12 will be our return home.

We will wake up early in the morning and leave for the airport and home

Tour price:

Price includes

2 high-speed trains
11 nights – in hotels
Jeeps in Tajikistan!
Bus in Uzbekistan
All entrance fees
Half board
Meetings with people and folklore
English-speaking local guide
Israeli guide Dr. Ze’ev Ben-Aryeh
Visa assistance for Tajikistan
Tips for service providers Hotels and restaurants
Mineral water

Price does not include

International flights
Visa fee for Tajikistan (depending on nationality)
Lunch (minimum expense)
Drinks other than water at meals
Tips for driver and local guide
Personal expenses
Mandatory health insurance