Silk Road Sisters

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival Tashkent

Welcome to Uzbekistan. Upon landing at Tashkent International Airport, you’ll be met with a warm welcome and transferred to your hotel. Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding infusion of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply intertwined with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road. This evening, meet the rest of your travellers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Overnight – Inspira S Hotel or similar

Day 2 – Tashkent – Full-Day City Tour

Today, explore Tashkent’s deep-rooted history and vibrant culture. Start at the Khast Imam Complex, home to the revered Quran of Caliph Uthman, believed to be the world’s oldest, dating back to the 7th century. Then, immerse yourself in the energy of Chorsu Bazaar, a marketplace thriving since the Middle Ages, where stalls overflow with spices, fresh produce, and intricate handicrafts. Pause at People’s Friendship Square, a lively gathering place woven into the city’s daily rhythm.

This afternoon, discover Lali Fashion House, where designer Lali Fazilova blends contemporary style with Uzbekistan’s rich textile heritage. Visit the workshop of Madina Kassymbaeva, a master of Uzbek embroidery. Observe artisans at work on suzani and clothing, then browse a showroom of exquisite, handcrafted pieces. After a fascinating day, return to your hotel for a restful evening. (B,D)

Overnight – Inspira S Hotel or similar

Day 3 – Tashkent

Today, step into the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in the elegant former residence of a Tsarist diplomat, where Uzbekistan’s most exquisite craftsmanship comes to life. Admire intricate ceramics, vibrant textiles, and masterful wood carvings that tell the story of the nation’s artistic heritage. Then, set out on a panoramic journey through Tashkent’s iconic landmarks. Stroll through Theatre Square, where history and culture converge, stand beneath the towering statue of Amir Temur, reflect at the Earthquake Monument, and experience the grandeur of Independence Square.

Descend into the Tashkent Metro, a masterpiece in itself, where each station unfolds like a subterranean palace adorned with mosaics, chandeliers, and elaborate murals. With the afternoon at your leisure, embrace the rhythm of the city—perhaps by wandering its bustling bazaars, indulging in aromatic Uzbek cuisine, or simply soaking in the fusion of tradition and modernity that defines Tashkent. (B,L)

Overnight – Inspira S Hotel or similar

Day 4 –Tashkent – Flight to Urgench – Khiva

After breakfast this morning, transfer to the airport for your flight from Tashkent to Urgench. On arrival, drive to Khiva.

Step into Khiva, a masterpiece of desert architecture and a former capital of ancient Khorezm. A UNESCO-listed gem, the walled city of Ichan Kala is home to over 60 historical monuments. Spend the day delving into the soul of Khiva, where history unfolds through towering minarets, intricate tilework, and ancient courtyards. Stand before the Muhammed Aminkhan Minaret, explore the fortified Kunya Ark, and wander through the Juma Mosque, where 218 carved pillars cast shifting patterns of light. Marvel at the splendour of Tash Khauli Palace, pay homage at the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud, and admire the elegance of the Islam Khodja Complex. Later, take part in a traditional bread-baking session, learning the secrets behind Khorezmian bread before sitting down to lunch. (B,L)

Overnight – Orient Star Khiva or similar

Day 5 – Khiva

After breakfast, visit Nurillaboy Palace, the recently restored summer residence of Khiva’s khans. Located just outside Ichan Kala, this palace blends traditional Khorezm architectural elements with regal design.  The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. (B,D)

Overnight – Orient Star Khiva or similar

Day 6 – Bukhara

This morning you will begin your journey to Bukhara, traversing the striking landscape of the Kyzylkum Desert. En route, enjoy a photo stop at the Amudaryo riverbank, where the scenic beauty of the river offers a perfect backdrop. Upon arrival in Bukhara, check in and for those keen to stretch their legs, you are in the prime location to explore on foot independently. (B,L)

Overnight – Safiya Boutique or similar

Day 7 – Bukhara

Following breakfast, set off on a full-day city tour of Bukhara. Step into the timeless charm of Bukhara, once a thriving Silk Road hub. Begin at the Poi Kalyan Ensemble, the city’s crown jewel, before exploring Ulugbek’s Madrassah and Abdulaziz-Khan Madrassah. Wander through the local bazaars, set beneath restored 14th–17th-century trading domes—Toki-Sarafon (money changers), Toki-Telpak Furushon (hat sellers), and Toki-Zargaron (jewellers). Visit the Magoki-Attari Mosque and Liabi-Khauz Square, where historic structures surround a tranquil pond. Along the way, pause at a local tea house to taste locally spiced tea or coffee.

Visit a local workshop to explore the art of miniature painting, a tradition dating back to Tamerlane’s reign (1370–1405) and now recognized by UNESCO. Meet master artist Davlat Toshev, who will guide you through the process. As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset drink on a rooftop terrace, followed by dinner. (B,D)

Overnight – Safiya Boutique or similar

Day 8 – Bukhara

Often called a museum city for its wealth of Silk Road monuments, caravanserais, and vibrant bazaars, Bukhara offers layers of history to uncover. Explore this UNESCO-listed city in depth, starting with the Ark Fortress, Bukhara’s ancient stronghold dating back over two millennia. Visit Bolo-Khauz Mosque and the Chashma-Ayub Shrine, a revered pilgrimage site linked to the prophet Job. Admire the Samanid Mausoleum, a 9th-century masterpiece with intricate brickwork in more than sixteen distinct patterns.

Venture just outside the city for a visit to Sitorai Mokhi Khosa, the summer palace of Bukhara’s last emir, blending European and Central Asian influences. Conclude the day at Chor Minor, a striking madrassah with its four unusual towers, each with its own unique design. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B,D)

Overnight – Safiya Boutique or similar

Day 9 – Bukhara – Samarkand (by train)

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast. Afterward, transfer to Kagan train station (30 minutes) to catch the high-speed train to Samarkand. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B,D)

Overnight – Orient Star or similar

Day 10 – Samarkand

After breakfast, depart for a full day tour of Samarkand. Samarkand’s history is rich with upheavals, from the time of Alexander the Great and the Arab Conquest to Genghis Khan’s invasion and, most notably, the reign of Tamerlane. As a result, Samarkand’s culture is a unique blend of Iranian, Indian, Mongolian, and influences from both Western and Eastern worlds.

This legendary UNESCO city has long enchanted travellers. Marvel at the iconic Registan Square, a true highlight of Uzbekistan, before visiting the stunning Bibi-Khanum Mosque, said to be a gift from Timur’s wife. Next, explore the vibrant Siab Bazaar (closed on Mondays), where local life comes alive. Continue your journey with a visit to Shakhi-Zinda, the Timurid dynasty’s family necropolis, known for its extraordinary tilework. (B,L)

Overnight – Orient Star or similar

Day 11 – Samarkand

Today you will delve deeper into Samarkand’s masterpieces. Visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur, and uncover the fascinating stories of his life and the grandeur of the city at its peak. Explore the Afrosiab Museum, which holds a unique wall painting dating back to the 7th century, shedding light on the city’s early foundation.

Next, visit the Tomb of St. Daniel, the resting place of the Old Testament prophet known as Daniiel or Doniyar. It’s a rare site where Muslims, Christians, and Jews come to pray. Then, step into the Ulugbek Observatory, where the Timurid dynasty’s groundbreaking understanding of astronomy will leave you in awe.

Continue to the Old Paper Mill near Samarkand, where you’ll discover the lost art of paper-making, once famed throughout the East, and gain insight into the meticulous traditional methods. End the day with a visit to the illuminated Registan Square, where the night lights up the historic beauty of this iconic landmark. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner. (B,D)

Overnight – Orient Star or similar

Day 12 – Samarkand – Tashkent (by train)

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day with no scheduled activities. Transfer to the train station to catch the high-speed “Afrosiab” train to Tashkent (16:51/19:17 – schedule subject to change). Upon arrival in Tashkent, transfer to your hotel for check-in. (B,D)

Overnight – Inspira S or similar

Day 13 –Tashkent – Departure

This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)