15 DAYS CENTRAL ASIA ODYSSEY: KYRGYZSTAN TO TAJIKISTAN

Transfer from Bishkek Airport to Hotel
On arrival in Bishkek Airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel to rest from your early morning arrival.

Bishkek: An Introduction to Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a city with buildings from the soviet era, vast squares and bustling local bazaars. It is the perfect base for day trips to nearby Ala Archa National Park, and the Burana Tower, a Silk Road-era minaret and all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun.  
 
Spend an easy day to take in the sights of Bishkek and visit the National History Museum of Kyrgyzstan.

Ala Archa National Park
Set out on an excursion to the magnificent Ala Archa National Park with its picturesque gorge of snow-capped mountains, pine forested valleys, waterfalls, and gushing rivers. Enjoy a morning of hiking and a deluxe picnic lunch amidst the beautiful environment.

Later, witness a Private Yurt set up by the local nomads. Afterwards, enjoy dinner in a yurt restaurant and be entertained by a Folklore musical performance showcasing traditional musical instruments and Kyrgyz melodies.

Journey to Issyk-Kul Alpine Lake
Embark on a 5-hour drive to the shore of Issyk-Kul lake. Enroute, visit Suyab, the hometown of the famous Chinese poet Li Bai and Burana, a minaret constructed in the 11th century during the heyday of the Silk Road.

In addition, enjoy a private demonstration of traditional horseback riding game that has been played by the Kyrgyz people for centuries and a vital part of their cultural heritage.

After having lunch with a local family, we continue to Issyk-Kul Lake, surrounded by the snowy mountains of Tianshan. Spend an idyllic afternoon exploring the area and take pleasure in a private boat ride on the scenic lake.

Northern Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake
After breakfast, visit the open-air Petroglyph Museum of Cholpon-Ata featuring Kyrgyzstan’s great collection of ancient rock arts.

Travel to Osh
Then, we drive about 5 hours back to Bishkek and take a flight to Osh. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation.

Exploration of Osh
The age of Osh city can be judged from the rock drawings and inscriptions found on the northern slope of the four-headed Sulayman Mountain, one of the main shrines of the Islamic world in Central Asia. You will visit main cave historical museum, the mosque of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Dynasty in India, and take a bird eye’s view of the city.

Journey to Fergana Valley in Uzbekistan
This morning, cross the Dustlik border into Uzbekistan and drive about 1 hour to Andijan, the birthplace of Babur. Visit Juma Mosque and Devonaboy Mosque, then continue with a 2-hour drive into the city of Fergana.

Sightseeing from Fergana to Kokand
Our tour of Fergana includes a visit to the Drama theatre which is named after governor M.D. Skobelev, as well as Fergana Regional Museum, one of the oldest museums in Uzbekistan with a fine collection of items, relating to all periods of history, culture, and art of Fergana valley.

Proceed to Margilan visit a traditional silk factory “Yodgorlik”, where you will get acquainted with the whole process of silk production. Next, head to Rishtan, where you will visit the well-known family ceramic workshops of Rustam Usmonov.

Continue onwards to Kokand and keep your eyes peeled for the Palace of Khudayar Khan.

Journey to Khujand in Tajikistan
Today, we cross another border, entering one of the most remote and intriguing countries along the Silk Road – Tajikistan. From Kokand, enjoy an approximately two-hour drive to Khujand, a city rich in history and culture.

Cultural Heritage of Khujand
Little known to the outside world, Khujand has witnessed dramatic history from Persian Shah, Cyrus the great to Alexander of the ancient world to Lenin of modern history, have left their marks here. We will visit the Khujand Historical Museum, Shaikh Muslihaddin Mosque, and Panjshanbe Bazaar.

Enjoy lunch at the House of Anora, where the interior and exterior reflect the traditional design of pre-Soviet Tajiki homes. Afterwards, visit Arbob Palace, originally built during the Soviet era and now a museum, followed by a tour of the Khujand Fortress Complex.

This evening, be treated to a private Tajik dinner and show in a traditional guesthouse.

Ancient Towns: Panjakent and Sarazm
After breakfast, set out on a 4.5-hour drive to Panjakent, one of the oldest towns in Central Asia. Delve into the history of Panjakent and Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an archaeologist specially invited. Visit the archaeological museum featuring the burial of the “Princess of Sarazm”.

Iskanderkul Lake in the Fann Mountains
Today, we will drive about 4 hours to the beautiful Iskanderkul Lake which sits 2,195m above sea level. Devote your afternoon to exploring the lake and its surrounding, including hiking to the Snake Lake and waterfall.

Iskanderkul and Sarytag
This morning, soak in the views of Iskanderkul’s amazing landscapes and hike around Sarytag village.

After lunch, we drive about 3.5 hours to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan and check-in to the hotel.

Discover Dushanbe and Navruz Palace
Begin your discovery of Dushanbe with a visit to the National Museum of Antiquities, followed by a city tour to see the Statue of Ismoil Somoni, Rudaki Park, and the Dushanbe Flagpole. Later, visit Hisor Fortress, a well-preserved historical landmark at the outskirt of Dushanbe. End the day with a visit to the Tower of Independence.

Further Exploration of Dushanbe
Head to the vibrant Mehrgon Market, brimming with spices, nuts, and fresh and dried fruits. Next, visit the Museum of Musical Instruments. Afterwards, enjoy an exclusive private visit to the magnificent Navruz Palace, including the dazzling Golden Hall and Hall of Mirrors. Continue to a mosaic master’s workshop and the Grand Mosque.

Dinner will be served earlier this evening before returning to the hotel to rest ahead of your early flight.

Transfer to Dushanbe Airport
A transfer will be arranged to Dushanbe Airport for your departure flight.