10 Days Private Historical Tour of Uzbekistan

Arrive in Tashkent late in the evening or midnight or early morning of the next day. You meet with your guide at the airport. Transfer to the hotel. Overnight stays in Tashkent.

Amir Temur Square is one of the most favorite places not only for local residents but also for visitors of the capital, located in the center of Tashkent. Square was founded in 1882. Originally it was called Konstantinovsky Square, but August 31, 1994, it was renamed in honor of the great Amir Temur who created the Timurid Empire, which lasted 200 years. Monument of Amir Timur (Tamerlane) is a bronze figure sitting on a horse. There is a famous motto of the commander, engraved in four languages: “Justice is force”. The square is surrounded by such buildings as "Uzbekistan" hotel, the State Museum of History of Timurids, as well as the famous chimes. The square is the radial-circular park, crossed by eight lanes, the center of which is Temurs monument. In 2009 the square was reconstructed, there were planted new trees instead of old ones, as well as was built a new administrative building. Due to the complex reconstruction, the square became clearer and brighter.

The Amir Timur Museum, also known as the Tamerlane Museum, is located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. It is dedicated to Amir Timur (Tamerlane), the famous Turko-Mongol conqueror and founder of the Timurid Empire in the 14th century. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits related to Timur's life, his conquests, and the Timurid period in Central Asian history.

The State Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater is one of the leading theaters of Uzbekistan, its national pride. For over eight decades, the theater has absorbed all the wealth of national and international classical heritage, thanks to this the theater got world-famous and created unique patterns of musical art. Many famous conductors, actors, musicians performed on its stage. It is one of three theaters in the Soviet Union, received the status of Bolshoi, two of which are located in Moscow and Minsk. June 11, 1939 there was the theater premiere Uzbek opera "Buran" by M. Ashrafi and S. Vasilenko. The first director and artistic director of the Uzbek State Musical Theatre was M. Kari-Yakubov. The young team performed with great success, not only in its home country, but also in Belgium, Holland, France, England, Egypt, Russia, Tatarstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, showing all its vivid artistry, musicality, national identity.

April 26, 1966, is a date which became the most tragic in the history of Tashkent. There was a strong earthquake 8 balls on the Richter scale at 5 hours 24 minutes in Tashkent, destroyed more than 2 million square meters of living space, 78,000 families were homeless. 10 years later in 1976, approximately the place where was the epicenter earthquake epicenter, the monument of "Courage" was erected. The main composition of the monument is a cube that splits the crack to the foot of a bronze sculpture, depicting the figure of a woman holding a baby, as well as a man, protecting them from impending disaster. Tashkent was reconstructed not only by residents of other regions of the country, but also construction groups from all over the Soviet Union. After 3.5 years the city was completely restored and new houses were taken by the first settlers.

According to scientists, it was the center of the city called Shash in the middle ages. The complex of historical and architectural monuments formed around Mazar Kaffallya ash-Shashi - the first Imam and preacher of Islam in Tashkent, also he was the famous theologian and linguist, after whom the complex was named "Hazrat Imam" ("The Holy Imam").The library of spiritual control is stored more than thirty thousand books; there are two thousand rarities among them. The Holy book – Koran is the special value for believers. Friday Mosque Jami is a master link of the vast area Hazrat Imam. The mosque was built in the tradidions of Central Asia architecture. Two colossal minarets with the height of 56 metre are adorned the entrance of the mosque.

Bazaar Chorsu (officialy called «Eski Juva», which means "Old Tower”) is one of the largest and oldest bazaars in Central Asia, it is under seven huge domes, covered with colored glazed ceramic tiles, there are the pavilions in bazaar, which abound with many fruits and vegetables. Regardless of the time of year your eyes run from the abundance and variety of goods. Even in ancient times people came here from all over the city (merchants, traders and ordinary citizens), not only to buy or sell something, but to know any news, there were also theatrical performances with singers – hafiz, clowns, tightrope walkers, sages and also there were cockfights. Here you can taste real Uzbek palov, shashlik and other national dishes. There are many beautiful apples and honey pears, grapes, fragrant peaches, garnets, unusually huge watermelons and melons like mountain peaks. Spicy scent is lured you that you cannot pass by. There are black and red pepper, nutmeg and cardamon, cumin and zira.

It is the first and currently the only metro system in Central Asia. Here are some key points about the Tashkent Metro:

ity of Khiva, located in Uzbekistan

Kunya-Ark «old castle» was built in the end of 17th century in 1686-1688 by Anushakhan’s son Arangakhan. The total size of the fortress is 130х93 metre. The fortress included a hall for official reception, khan’s office, mosques, mint, as well as many other outbuildings. Today, there are only a few buildings of Kunya-Ark fortress: kurinishhona (room for reception of people); Ak-Sheikh Bobo’s cell; the eastern gate with room for guarding; summer and winter mosques and harem. Ak-Sheikh Bobo’s cell was dwelling of Ak-Sheikh Bobo. Later it served as observation tower and a warehouse where gunpowder was stored. Kurinishhona building was built in the years 1686-1688 by Arang Khan. But in the middle of the XVIII century, during the invasion of Iranians it was destroyed. In 1804-1806 the building was erected by Eltazur-khan.

The full name of khan was Said Muhammad Rahim Bahadur Khan. Local people called him Madraim Khan II. The construction of madrasah was begun by Seyid Muhammad Rahim Khan’s order and was completed in 1876. The immense building consists of 76 hujras, two courtyards, darshona, winter and summer mosques and library. It is a rectangular building with ayvan and small towers at the corners. Here the students studied not only theology but also science. There were often held literary evenings – mushoira where one could hear the works of outstanding poets of Khiva. The yard is surrounded by one-storey hujras inside which dominates a two-storey building. Its facade is decorated with a giant portal, where you can see the remains of blue majolica. There are high buildings-guldasta in the corners of madrasah.

Kalta-Minar Minaret means «Low tower» is located in the inner of Khiva. The building was erected in the 19 century by the ruler Mukhammad Amin-khan. The minaret is unique that it was not completed. According to his plan, the height of the building was to be 70-80 cm, but construction was finished at 29 cm. Despite the minaret was not completed, it is impossible to imagine Khiva without this mighty building. The building is famous not only its big sizes, but above all it is the only minaret which is covered with blue and white glazed tiles and majolica. There are many legends and stories about Kalta-Minar Minaret. One of the legends says when Bukhara khan heard about Muhammad Amin Khan’ construction, he asked his architect to buld the same building in Bukhara. But as soon as Muhammad Amin Khan learnt the news, the architect was thrown from the minaret. This was the reason the work was stopped because nobody else could finish the construction.

torical complex located within the ancient walled city of Khiva, Uzbekistan. Here's an overview of Tosh-Hovli: Location: Tosh-Hovli Palace is situated in the heart of Ichan Kala, the inner city of Khiva, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It stands as one of the most significant architectural and historical landmarks within this well-preserved medieval city. History: The palace was constructed in the early 19th century during the reign of Muhammad Rahim Khan I, who was a notable ruler of the Khanate of Khiva. It served as the main residence for the Khan and his family, as well as an administrative center for governance. Architecture: Tosh-Hovli Palace exhibits traditional Central Asian architectural features blended with influences from Persian and Islamic styles. The complex consists of multiple interconnected courtyards, each surrounded by rooms, halls, and galleries.

Pahlavan Mahmud is a local poet and philosopher who was famous for his heroic strength and the ability to heal people. Originally the construction of the mausoleum was very modest but soon there was built khanaka and mosque where pilgrims said their prayer. Later the building was rebuilt into a magnificent construction with the largest dome in the city, covered with blue tiles. In 1810 the mausoleum was rebuilt by Muhammad Rahim-khan. The new building consists of old tombs and double dome. There is a tombstone above the grave, adorned with mosaic of carved ceramics. The mausoleum is the tomb of Pahlavan Mahmud as well as the rulers of Khiva Muhammad Rahimkhan I, Abulgazihan and Elbars II. There is a small courtyard with open mosque (ziyarathona) where come many believers in order to pray. There is also a deep well with clean drinking water.

andmark located within the Ichan Kala, the ancient walled city of Khiva

town of Khiva that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is situated near other prominent structures such as the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa and the Kalta Minor Minaret. History: The mosque dates back to the 10th century, though the current structure primarily reflects reconstructions and expansions from the 18th and 19th centuries. It has been an essential religious center for the people of Khiva throughout its long history. Architecture: The Juma Mosque is notable for its distinctive architectural features. The main prayer hall is supported by a forest of wooden columns, which are believed to be sourced from older structures and reused over centuries. Each column is intricately carved with unique designs and patterns, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The mosque's facade is adorned with traditional blue and green tile work, adding to its visual appeal.

A highlight of your trip! Bukhara (UNESCO World Heritage Site) presents itself today as a unique authentic museum. The mosques, madrasahs and minarets are lined up like narrow pearls in narrow, winding streets that are mostly traffic-free. The Poikalon complex is considered a showpiece of Islamic architecture. The Kalon minaret, built in the 12th century, which rises like a lighthouse and once served as a guide for caravans, is the symbol of Bukhara. Other highlights include the Ark Citadel (the former residence of the Emir) and the Samanid Mausoleum. Two overnights stay in Bukhara.

It was dug in 1620 between khanaka and madrassah. By this time there were more than eighty reservoirs, which supplied the city with water, but Lyabi-Hauz was the biggest. The pool has a length 42 m, a width 36 m, a depth 5 m. The ensemble consists of three monumental buildings: madrassah Kukeldash and two other religious buildings: Hanaka on the west and Madrasah of Nadir Divan-Begi on the east. According to the planning, it was constructed as a caravanserai. There are no rooms for classes – darshona and summer audience – ayvans. Glazed mosaic with image of fantastic birds with prey in its talons is decorated large portal, attached to the building.

Magoki-Attori Mosque means “Deep mosque”. It is a mosque of XII-XVI centuries in Bukhara, located next to the ensemble Labi House, in the city center. The mosque was situated on a bazaar before the Arab conquest, where were sold herbalist. By the beginning of the XX century, with its thousand-year history, the mosque completely covered with cultural layer, that’s why the locals began to call it the underground mosque, hence the name Magoki Attari. The mosque is interesting with its décor. Figured masonry brick, patterns, ornaments, terracotta tiles, forming different combinations, all this is organically combined in the design of portal niche. In the XII century the mosque was rebuilt. Restorers cleared the façade, which was almost 4.5 meters left in the ground. Thus, people were able to survey the main artistic sight of the mosque. Today, there is only the portal that represents a masterpiece of architectural decoration, the upper part was lost.

ally within the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Bukhara Historic Centre. History: The trading domes in Bukhara, including Toki Sarrofon, have a long history dating back to the medieval period when Bukhara was a thriving center of commerce along the Silk Road. These domes played a crucial role in facilitating trade between merchants from different regions. Architecture: Toki Sarrofon in Bukhara is known for its impressive architectural design, typical of Central Asian trading domes. It features a large domed structure with arched entrances and inner courtyards. The interiors were traditionally divided into sections or stalls where merchants sold various goods such as textiles, spices, jewelry, and crafts.

ated within the historic center of the city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here's an overview of Toki Telpak Furushon: Location: Toki Telpak Furushon is situated in the heart of Bukhara's old city, close to other prominent landmarks such as the Po-i-Kalyan complex, the Ark Fortress, and other trading domes like Toki Sarrofon. History: Like other trading domes in Bukhara, Toki Telpak Furushon has a history that dates back centuries, reflecting the city's role as a major hub along the Silk Road. It was a place where merchants from Bukhara and beyond gathered to trade a variety of goods.

g dome located in the historic city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Here's an overview of Toki Zargaron: Location: Toki Zargaron is situated within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bukhara's historic center, close to other notable landmarks such as the Po-i-Kalyan complex, the Ark Fortress, and other trading domes like Toki Sarrofon and Toki Telpak Furushon. History: The trading domes in Bukhara, including Toki Zargaron, have a rich history that spans centuries. Bukhara was a major center for commerce, particularly known for its skilled artisans and jewelers who produced and traded exquisite jewelry, gemstones, and other luxury items.

Complex consists of three constructions built in XII-XVI centuries: madrasah Miri-Arab, mosque Kalyan and minaret Kalyan – “Great minaret” is the main decoration of the complex. Poi-Kalyan is one of the central architectural ensembles of Bukhara. It had been the main centre of ancient Bukhara. Minaret Kalyan is one of the greatest buildings of the Muslim East. It was used not only as a tower of the mosque but as a patrol tower, from which one could see all the neighborhoods of the city. Later it became the place for public executions, hence another name of this Great minaret – Minaret of Death. The height of the minaret is 45,3 metre, diameter of the basis is 9 metre. The building is the powerful pillar with a round lantern on the top. The minaret is covered with ceramic tiles, which represent different geometric shapes – square, circle, half circle and triangle.

Ark Citadel is the most ancient monument of Bukhara. According to the archaeological excavations, the citadel belongs to IV-III centuries. Fortress area is 3.9 hectares. It is a rectangular building, a little stretching from west to east. The front gate to the citadel framed by two towers. Currently, the height of the citadel walls is from 16 to 20 metre and the length of the walls is 789 metre. During its long history, Ark had repeatedly been destroyed but was restored again.

Today, after breakfast in Bukhara we drive to Nurata yurt camp and Aidarkul lake where we can experiance nomadic life, camel riding. Towards midday we arrive in Aidarkul Lake which is the biggest lake in Uzbekistan in the middle of the desert. where we have a lunch and swim with lots of fun and joy. Afternoon around 4pm we go to our Yurt camp in the middle of the desert it is 25km way from Aidarkul Lake. Once we arrive the camp where we try camel riding and enjoy the totally wild nature, at 08:00PM we have a dinner in the Yurt Camp restaurant (Meals: First, second and desserts are available) After dinner we have a chance to enjoy and dance for folklore songs by traditional local singer (Bakhshi) around the fire at nights and then we sleep

dday and start the tour

Gur-Emir Mausoleum is one of the finest examples of medieval architecture of the East, in Persian means (“Tomb of the Emir”). Construction of the mausoleum was begun in 1404 in southwestern part of the city. Mausoleum is the family tomb of Timurids. The domes and glaze were restored in 1967. Guri-Emir is one-dome building with the tomb. Unusually beautiful effect creates a geometric mosaic ornament, shining brightly in the sun. Mosaic of light and blue glazed bricks is decorated the walls of the building. The tile of mosaic installed above the entrance says that this is the tomb of Amir Timur Guragan.

ree majestic medieval universities (madrasa) - Ulugbek (left), Tilla-Kari (central) and the Sher-Dor (right). From Uzbek "reg" means sand, "stan" - a place.

According to the legend, the mosque was named in honor of Timur’s beloved wife. The construction of the building was begun after a victorious campaign of Timur to India. According to his plan, it must have been a mosque to perform the Friday prayer, the beauty of which would eclipse all the sights he had ever seen. Architects, craftsmen, artists and artisans from all over the East participated in the construction of the building. The size square of immense complex was 130x102 m.

ue of Bibi Khanum and Shokhi Zinda complex, not far away from the Registan. Since ancient times, it was the center of social life for citizens, there were purchase – sale, national festivities but today Siab bazaar meets customers with abundance of fruits and vegetables, melons and grains. You can visit the bazaar in any weather as it is located in covered pavilions. Bags of walnuts, salt pits of apricots, raisin, dried apricot, sweet peanut, parvarda – Eastern sweetness, kazinaki of different kinds attract sweet lovers.

Nekropolis Shahi-Zinda (“The living King”) is one of the great ancient architectural ensembles of Samarkand, situated on the south-eastern part of Afrasiab. The ensemble includes mausoleums and other religious buildings of XI, XIV and XIX centuries. The name of Shahi-Zinda is connected with legend. It is said that cousin of Prophet Muhammad, Kusam ibn Abbase arrived in Samarkand to preach Islam but he was beheaded, despite he managed to go down into the well where allegedly he has still been living.

ddle ages, built by Ulugbek near Samarkand in 1428-1429. It is round three-storey building, its diametre is 46,4 and height is 30 metre. There was marble sextant here. The device which was under the ground is well preserved. The arc of the instrument is made of marble with two barriers. In Ulugbek Observatory worked such outstanding astronomers as al-Kushchi, Kazi-zade ar-Rumi.

ear the historic city centers, where they have access to skilled artisans and traditional techniques passed down through generations. Craftsmanship: These factories specialize in producing handmade silk carpets, known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and fine quality. The carpets often feature traditional Uzbek motifs such as geometric patterns, floral designs, and sometimes even historical scenes or symbols.

It's situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by mulberry trees, which are essential for the paper-making process. History: The paper-making tradition at Konigil dates back over a thousand years to the 8th century during the Islamic Golden Age. The techniques used at the factory have been preserved through generations, making it a cultural and historical landmark.

n a clay oven and is so delicious and famous in this region! Shakhrisabz is a historic city in southern Uzbekistan, known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shakhrisabz is famous for its stunning monuments, including the Ak-Saray Palace and the Dorut Tilavat Complex. The city holds great significance as the birthplace of Timur, the 14th-century Central Asian conqueror. With its vibrant history and well-preserved structures, Shakhrisabz offers visitors a glimpse into the splendor of the Timurid dynasty and its architectural achievements. It takes 2 hours drive to Shakhrisabz via mountain pass! in the afternoon we back to Samarkand and catch evening train to Tashkent at 6PM

Ak Saray was commissioned by the Timurid ruler Amir Timur (Tamerlane) in the late 14th century. It was intended to be one of the grandest palaces in the world, reflecting Timur's ambition and the splendor of his empire. However, construction was never completed due to Timur's death in 1405.

Dorut Tilovat is situated in the historic center of Shakhrisabz, which is known for its significance as a cultural and architectural hub in Uzbekistan. Shakhrisabz is located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Samarkand. History: Dorut Tilovat is associated with the Dorus-Saodat complex, which translates to "Seat of Power" or "Abode of Power." It includes several mausoleums and structures that were constructed over different periods, primarily during the reign of Timur (Tamerlane) and his successors in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Shakhrisabz is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as the birthplace of the Timurid dynasty. Architecture: The mosque is characterized by its large blue-domed structure, which gives it its name "Ko'k Gumbaz," meaning "Blue Dome" in Uzbek. The exterior features intricate tile work with geometric patterns and calligraphic inscriptions typical of Timurid architecture. History: Ko'k Gumbaz Mosque was built during the reign of Ulugh Beg, the grandson of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), in the 15th century. It served as a congregational mosque where Muslims gathered for prayers and religious ceremonies.

Check out of the hotel. Transfer to the airport. End of the trip :)