Welcome to “The Crowning Jewels of Central Asia,” a journey that will take you through some of the most mesmerizing destinations in the heart of Asia. This adventure-packed trip covers the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, showcasing the best of what Central Asia has to offer. Get ready to witness the majestic beauty of ancient cities, soaring mountains, and pristine lakes, all while immersing yourself in the fascinating local cultures.
Our journey begins in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, where we’ll explore the ancient Silk Road city and its bustling bazaars. From there, we’ll head to the enchanting city of Samarkand, home to some of the most stunning Islamic architecture in the world. Get ready to witness the grandeur of Registan Square and the stunning Shah-i-Zinda complex, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The trip also includes a visit to the tranquil city of Bukhara, where we’ll discover the rich history and culture of this ancient city. Join us on this unforgettable adventure, “The Crowning Jewels of Central Asia,” and explore the hidden gems of this magnificent region.
Central Asia is a vast and diverse region that has been inhabited by various nomadic and sedentary civilizations for thousands of years. The history of Central Asia can be traced back to ancient times, when several powerful empires such as the Bactrian, Sogdian, and Khwarezmian cultures emerged and developed sophisticated trade, agriculture, and urban centers.
In the medieval period, Central Asia came under the rule of the Mongols, who established a vast empire that spanned from Europe to Asia. The Mongol rule brought both devastation and cultural exchange to the region, with the Silk Road trade flourishing under their protection.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Timurids, a Central Asian dynasty, emerged and established a powerful empire that included Iran, Iraq, and parts of India. The Timurid era is known for its cultural achievements, particularly in the fields of literature, art, and architecture.
In the 19th century, Russia expanded its territory into Central Asia and established a colonial rule that lasted until the Soviet era. The Soviets implemented policies that aimed to transform the region’s economy and society, leading to rapid industrialization and urbanization but also environmental degradation and social disruption.
After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Central Asian republics declared their independence and embarked on a path of nation-building and economic development. Today, the region faces challenges such as political instability, ethnic tensions, and economic inequality, but also has significant potential for growth and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Day 01: Islamabad
Arrive at Islamabad. Meet & assist, and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel (No meals)
Day 02: Islamabad – Chilas
After breakfast drive to Chilas.
Arrive and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 03: Chilas – Gilgit
After breakfast drive to Gilgit
Arrive and transfer to the hotel
- City sightseeing tour of Kargah.
- Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 04: Gilgit – Karimabad
After breakfast at the hotel drive to Hunza.
Arrive and transfer to the hotel.
- Visit Baltit Fort.
- Overnight at the hotel.
- (Breakfast only)
Day 05: Karimabad – Nagar – Karimabad
Breakfast at the hotel. AM. Free at leisure.
- proceed for Nagar excursion.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 06: Karimabad – Sost – Tashkurgan
Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Sust to cross Pakistan-China border.
Pack lunch will be provided for the rest of the journey. Custom and immigration formalities at Sust.
Upon arrival transfer to the Pameer hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Pameer Hotel
Day 07: Tashkurgan – Kashgar
After breakfast drive to Kashgar. Enroute we will see the majestic mountains with giant peaks. Lunch at the beautiful Karakul Lake-located between the two Pamir mountain giants – Muxteghata (24,524 ft) and Kongur (25,086 ft). On the way to Kashgar we will see some small villages with unique ethnic characteristics.
On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Qinibagh Hotel or equivalent
Day 08: Kashgar – Urumqi
After breakfast proceed for city sightseeing of Kashgar includes Abkhoja Tomb, Eddgha Mosque and other historical sights.
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Urumqi.
On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Region, is the land of of song and dance. This region is home of 14 separate ethinic cultures.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Overseas / Friendship Hotel.
Day 09: Urumqi – Almaty
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Almaty ( Kazakistan ).
Flight No. XO-711 ( 0950 – 1035 ).
Arrive in Almaty and transfer to hotel.
- City sightseeing of Almaty.
Today proceed for full day city sightseeing of Almaty. Almaty is situated in the south east of Kazakhstan , at the foot of the Zailisky Alatau Mountains. It has its origins in fort Verny, a Russian fortified post was established in 1854 near the ruins of
Almatu,an ancient settlement which lay astride the Great Silk route leading to Far East. In 1921 Verny was renamed Alma-ata “Father of Apples ” and in 1929 it became the capital of Kazakhstan Republic. Visit Central State Museum of Kazakhstan ( one of the
best museums of Central Asia ), proceed to Panfilov Park and visit Museum of National instuments , located in the wooden building built in 1907 as a Russian Orhodox Church . Walk through the Alley of Presidents and reach the Zenkov Cathedral right in the heart of the park.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Otrar Hotel or equivalent
Day 10: Almaty
After breakfast at local restaurant visit Kok – Tube, green hills on outskirts of the city, from where you can see the whole city like on the palm. Visit Fine Arts museum will complete our city sight – seeing of Almaty,
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Otrar Hotel or equivalent
Day 11: Almaty – Issyk Kul
After breakfast drive to Issyk-Kul via Bishkek.
Lunch at local restaurant in Bishkek. Continue drive to Issyk Kul Lake.
Arrive and transfer to the Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Vzmorye Hotel or equivalent
Day 12: Issyk Kul – Bishek
After breakfast drive to Bishkek.
Arrive and transfer to Hotel. PM. Proceed for city tour.
Bishkek ( Soviet time Frunze ) is the capital of Kyrghzstan located in the picturesque valley of Chu River . It is renamed as Bishkek in 1991. Bishkek was founded in 1825 as Pishpek by Khan of Kokand Khanate . This modern city has its origin in a settlement at the junctions of several caravan routes to Tibet and China. Throughout its stormy history, it was frequently laid waste by warring nomad tribes. Visit Museum of history and handicraft shops inside of museum. After proceed to multicolor Osh Bazaar.
Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bishkek Hotel or equivalent
Day 13: Bishek – Osh – Andijan – Fergana
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to OSH.
Arrive Osh and drive to Fergana via Andijan.
Lunch enroute.
Visit Andijan bazaar , one of the most interesting bazaars of Central Asia . It is situated with skullcaps and lined with metal and wood workshops producing orange sparks, mighty dins, sickless, axes, painted wooden cradles and surely the old
scimitar. Worth visit place is birthplace of Zaheeriddin Mohammad Babur, the fifth in line to the throne of Tamerlane, born in Andijan in 1483. Also visit city museum and Juma mosque ( 300 years old ). After sightseeing continue driving to Fergana.
Arrive Fergana and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Ziorat Hotel or equivalent
Day 14: Fergana
After breakfast proceed for excursion to Kuva ( 30 km ). In Kuva Old ruins of the city dating back to the 1 – 2 cc BC and also reconstructed city wall. Then drive to Margilan one of the famous cities of Uzbekistan for silk spinning factory. Visit Silk Factory of Margilan,
Lunch at local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Ziorat Hotel or equivalent
Day 15: Fergana – Tashkent
After breakfast drive to Tashkent via Kokand. In Kokand Visit the famous Khudayar Khan’s Palace ( closed Monday ) . Palace is last truly monumental building in Central Asia,it took eight years to build ( 1863 – 71 ), was badly damaged by Russian shells in 1876 and 1918 but now under restoration. It contains, antique jewelry, samovars,musical instruments, lavish carving & painted plaster in most of the Khan’s rooms. Also visit Juma Masjid, it is Kokand’s largest mosque about 10,000 men can attend Friday Prayer and graves of kings.
Lunch at local restaurant in Kokand. Then continue driving to Tashkent via Kamchik Pass.
Arrive Tashkent and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan Hotel ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 16: Tashkent – Bukhara
transfer to airport for flight TAS-BUK . Arrive Bukhara and transfer to the hotel New Bukhara.
City sightseeing of Bukhara. Visit Sitorai Mohi Hossa, Summer Palace of Bukhara Emir.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bukhara Hotel or equivalent
Day 17: Bukhara
After breakfast proceed for full day city tour of Bukhara. Visit Bolo Hauz Mosque, Ark fortress and Chor – Minor madrassah with four – cupola entrance. Also visit Labi Hauz Complex with Madrassah Nadir Divan – begi and Hanaqa Mosque, Ancient Silk
Market, Madrassah Ulugbek Minaret Kalyan(great minaret , Trade Domes of Bukhara,Kukeldash Madrassah,Wazir Khan Madrassah and bazaar.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bukhara Hotel or equivalent
Day 18: Bukhara – Samarkand
After breakfast drive to Samarkand.
Lunch at local restaurant enroute.
Arrive Samarkand and transfer to the hotel.
- Proceed for a half day sightseeing of Samarkand.
Visit History and Ethnography museum of Samarkand.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Samarkand Hotel or equivalent
Day 19: Samarkand
After breakfast at the hotel proceed for a full day city tour.
Visit Reghistan square, Bibi khanum mosque, Masoleum of Shahi zinda, saint Kusam ibn Abbas. Also visit Gur Emir nephritis burial tomb of the Iron lame man ( Timur-leng ) was buried. Visit observatory of Ulugbek ( 15th Century ), Afrasiab museum.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Samarkand Hotel or equivalent
Day 20: Samarkand – Tashkent
Breakfast at the hotel. AM. Excursion to Mausoleum of Imam al Bukhari and one of the pilgrimage place of Uzbek Muslims , located outskirts of Samarkand ( 20 km ).
Lunch at local restaurant in Samarkand. PM. Drive to Tashkent. Arrive Tashkent and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 21: Tashkent
After breakfast at the hotel full day city tour of Tashkent.
Visit Amir Temur Square and Museum, Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre , Barakkhan madrasah , Tilla Shekh Mosque , Chorsu Bazaar, Friendship square and independence Square , Also visit Applied art museum.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 22: Tashkent
Transfer to airport for departure flight.
(Breakfast only)
Welcome to “The Crowning Jewels of Central Asia,” a journey that will take you through some of the most mesmerizing destinations in the heart of Asia. This adventure-packed trip covers the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, showcasing the best of what Central Asia has to offer. Get ready to witness the majestic beauty of ancient cities, soaring mountains, and pristine lakes, all while immersing yourself in the fascinating local cultures.
Our journey begins in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, where we’ll explore the ancient Silk Road city and its bustling bazaars. From there, we’ll head to the enchanting city of Samarkand, home to some of the most stunning Islamic architecture in the world. Get ready to witness the grandeur of Registan Square and the stunning Shah-i-Zinda complex, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The trip also includes a visit to the tranquil city of Bukhara, where we’ll discover the rich history and culture of this ancient city. Join us on this unforgettable adventure, “The Crowning Jewels of Central Asia,” and explore the hidden gems of this magnificent region.
Central Asia is a vast and diverse region that has been inhabited by various nomadic and sedentary civilizations for thousands of years. The history of Central Asia can be traced back to ancient times, when several powerful empires such as the Bactrian, Sogdian, and Khwarezmian cultures emerged and developed sophisticated trade, agriculture, and urban centers.
In the medieval period, Central Asia came under the rule of the Mongols, who established a vast empire that spanned from Europe to Asia. The Mongol rule brought both devastation and cultural exchange to the region, with the Silk Road trade flourishing under their protection.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Timurids, a Central Asian dynasty, emerged and established a powerful empire that included Iran, Iraq, and parts of India. The Timurid era is known for its cultural achievements, particularly in the fields of literature, art, and architecture.
In the 19th century, Russia expanded its territory into Central Asia and established a colonial rule that lasted until the Soviet era. The Soviets implemented policies that aimed to transform the region’s economy and society, leading to rapid industrialization and urbanization but also environmental degradation and social disruption.
After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Central Asian republics declared their independence and embarked on a path of nation-building and economic development. Today, the region faces challenges such as political instability, ethnic tensions, and economic inequality, but also has significant potential for growth and cooperation with neighboring countries.
Day 01: Islamabad
Arrive at Islamabad. Meet & assist, and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel (No meals)
Day 02: Islamabad – Chilas
After breakfast drive to Chilas.
Arrive and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 03: Chilas – Gilgit
After breakfast drive to Gilgit
Arrive and transfer to the hotel
- City sightseeing tour of Kargah.
- Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 04: Gilgit – Karimabad
After breakfast at the hotel drive to Hunza.
Arrive and transfer to the hotel.
- Visit Baltit Fort.
- Overnight at the hotel.
- (Breakfast only)
Day 05: Karimabad – Nagar – Karimabad
Breakfast at the hotel. AM. Free at leisure.
- proceed for Nagar excursion.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast only)
Day 06: Karimabad – Sost – Tashkurgan
Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Sust to cross Pakistan-China border.
Pack lunch will be provided for the rest of the journey. Custom and immigration formalities at Sust.
Upon arrival transfer to the Pameer hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Pameer Hotel
Day 07: Tashkurgan – Kashgar
After breakfast drive to Kashgar. Enroute we will see the majestic mountains with giant peaks. Lunch at the beautiful Karakul Lake-located between the two Pamir mountain giants – Muxteghata (24,524 ft) and Kongur (25,086 ft). On the way to Kashgar we will see some small villages with unique ethnic characteristics.
On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Qinibagh Hotel or equivalent
Day 08: Kashgar – Urumqi
After breakfast proceed for city sightseeing of Kashgar includes Abkhoja Tomb, Eddgha Mosque and other historical sights.
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Urumqi.
On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Region, is the land of of song and dance. This region is home of 14 separate ethinic cultures.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Overseas / Friendship Hotel.
Day 09: Urumqi – Almaty
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Almaty ( Kazakistan ).
Flight No. XO-711 ( 0950 – 1035 ).
Arrive in Almaty and transfer to hotel.
- City sightseeing of Almaty.
Today proceed for full day city sightseeing of Almaty. Almaty is situated in the south east of Kazakhstan , at the foot of the Zailisky Alatau Mountains. It has its origins in fort Verny, a Russian fortified post was established in 1854 near the ruins of
Almatu,an ancient settlement which lay astride the Great Silk route leading to Far East. In 1921 Verny was renamed Alma-ata “Father of Apples ” and in 1929 it became the capital of Kazakhstan Republic. Visit Central State Museum of Kazakhstan ( one of the
best museums of Central Asia ), proceed to Panfilov Park and visit Museum of National instuments , located in the wooden building built in 1907 as a Russian Orhodox Church . Walk through the Alley of Presidents and reach the Zenkov Cathedral right in the heart of the park.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Otrar Hotel or equivalent
Day 10: Almaty
After breakfast at local restaurant visit Kok – Tube, green hills on outskirts of the city, from where you can see the whole city like on the palm. Visit Fine Arts museum will complete our city sight – seeing of Almaty,
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Otrar Hotel or equivalent
Day 11: Almaty – Issyk Kul
After breakfast drive to Issyk-Kul via Bishkek.
Lunch at local restaurant in Bishkek. Continue drive to Issyk Kul Lake.
Arrive and transfer to the Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Vzmorye Hotel or equivalent
Day 12: Issyk Kul – Bishek
After breakfast drive to Bishkek.
Arrive and transfer to Hotel. PM. Proceed for city tour.
Bishkek ( Soviet time Frunze ) is the capital of Kyrghzstan located in the picturesque valley of Chu River . It is renamed as Bishkek in 1991. Bishkek was founded in 1825 as Pishpek by Khan of Kokand Khanate . This modern city has its origin in a settlement at the junctions of several caravan routes to Tibet and China. Throughout its stormy history, it was frequently laid waste by warring nomad tribes. Visit Museum of history and handicraft shops inside of museum. After proceed to multicolor Osh Bazaar.
Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bishkek Hotel or equivalent
Day 13: Bishek – Osh – Andijan – Fergana
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to OSH.
Arrive Osh and drive to Fergana via Andijan.
Lunch enroute.
Visit Andijan bazaar , one of the most interesting bazaars of Central Asia . It is situated with skullcaps and lined with metal and wood workshops producing orange sparks, mighty dins, sickless, axes, painted wooden cradles and surely the old
scimitar. Worth visit place is birthplace of Zaheeriddin Mohammad Babur, the fifth in line to the throne of Tamerlane, born in Andijan in 1483. Also visit city museum and Juma mosque ( 300 years old ). After sightseeing continue driving to Fergana.
Arrive Fergana and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Ziorat Hotel or equivalent
Day 14: Fergana
After breakfast proceed for excursion to Kuva ( 30 km ). In Kuva Old ruins of the city dating back to the 1 – 2 cc BC and also reconstructed city wall. Then drive to Margilan one of the famous cities of Uzbekistan for silk spinning factory. Visit Silk Factory of Margilan,
Lunch at local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Ziorat Hotel or equivalent
Day 15: Fergana – Tashkent
After breakfast drive to Tashkent via Kokand. In Kokand Visit the famous Khudayar Khan’s Palace ( closed Monday ) . Palace is last truly monumental building in Central Asia,it took eight years to build ( 1863 – 71 ), was badly damaged by Russian shells in 1876 and 1918 but now under restoration. It contains, antique jewelry, samovars,musical instruments, lavish carving & painted plaster in most of the Khan’s rooms. Also visit Juma Masjid, it is Kokand’s largest mosque about 10,000 men can attend Friday Prayer and graves of kings.
Lunch at local restaurant in Kokand. Then continue driving to Tashkent via Kamchik Pass.
Arrive Tashkent and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan Hotel ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 16: Tashkent – Bukhara
transfer to airport for flight TAS-BUK . Arrive Bukhara and transfer to the hotel New Bukhara.
City sightseeing of Bukhara. Visit Sitorai Mohi Hossa, Summer Palace of Bukhara Emir.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bukhara Hotel or equivalent
Day 17: Bukhara
After breakfast proceed for full day city tour of Bukhara. Visit Bolo Hauz Mosque, Ark fortress and Chor – Minor madrassah with four – cupola entrance. Also visit Labi Hauz Complex with Madrassah Nadir Divan – begi and Hanaqa Mosque, Ancient Silk
Market, Madrassah Ulugbek Minaret Kalyan(great minaret , Trade Domes of Bukhara,Kukeldash Madrassah,Wazir Khan Madrassah and bazaar.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Bukhara Hotel or equivalent
Day 18: Bukhara – Samarkand
After breakfast drive to Samarkand.
Lunch at local restaurant enroute.
Arrive Samarkand and transfer to the hotel.
- Proceed for a half day sightseeing of Samarkand.
Visit History and Ethnography museum of Samarkand.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Samarkand Hotel or equivalent
Day 19: Samarkand
After breakfast at the hotel proceed for a full day city tour.
Visit Reghistan square, Bibi khanum mosque, Masoleum of Shahi zinda, saint Kusam ibn Abbas. Also visit Gur Emir nephritis burial tomb of the Iron lame man ( Timur-leng ) was buried. Visit observatory of Ulugbek ( 15th Century ), Afrasiab museum.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Samarkand Hotel or equivalent
Day 20: Samarkand – Tashkent
Breakfast at the hotel. AM. Excursion to Mausoleum of Imam al Bukhari and one of the pilgrimage place of Uzbek Muslims , located outskirts of Samarkand ( 20 km ).
Lunch at local restaurant in Samarkand. PM. Drive to Tashkent. Arrive Tashkent and transfer to Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 21: Tashkent
After breakfast at the hotel full day city tour of Tashkent.
Visit Amir Temur Square and Museum, Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre , Barakkhan madrasah , Tilla Shekh Mosque , Chorsu Bazaar, Friendship square and independence Square , Also visit Applied art museum.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Hotel: Uzbekistan ( Old ) or equivalent
Day 22: Tashkent
Transfer to airport for departure flight.
(Breakfast only)