|
SILK
ROAD: FROM SAMARKAND & KASHGAR TO HUNZA
Countries
visited: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China & Pakistan |
 |
The
Silk Road, while traversing many countries, was most significant
in Central Asia, Xinjiang and Northern Pakistan. It is
from here that the different branches of the Silk Road
shot out westwards to Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. From
the Great game centre of Kashgar, the trade routes continue
to Tashkurgan, Hunza and Gilgit. Our 24-day journey has
been artistically tailored to cover these areas bringing
forth memories of bygone days. Immerse yourself in the
history of the silk trade with its bazaars, camel routes,
sand dunes, majestic mountains, intense culture and ancient
peoples.
|
Tour
Summary
|
Map |
Day
|
Place
|
|
01
|
Tashkent |
|
02
|
Tashkent
/ Samarkand |
| 03 |
Samarkand |
|
04
|
Samarkand
/ Shakre Sabz / Bukhara |
|
05
|
Bukhara |
|
06
|
Bukhara
/ Ayaz Kala |
|
07
|
Ayaz
Kala / Khiva |
|
08
|
Khiva
/ Urgench / Urgench / Tashkent |
|
09
|
Tashkent
/ Ferghana |
|
10
|
Ferghana
/ Osh / Bishkek |
|
11
|
Bishkek
/ Issikul |
|
12
|
Issikul
/ Karakol |
|
13
|
Karakol |
| 14 |
Karakol
/ Naryn |
| 15 |
Naryn
/ Torogart / Kashgar |
| 16 |
Kashgar |
| 17 |
Kashgar
Sunday Bazaar |
| 18 |
Kashgar
/ Taxkorgan |
| 19 |
Sust
/ Hunza |
| 20 |
Excursion
Nagar and Hunza |
| 21 |
Hunza
/ Gilgit / Chilas |
| 22 |
Chilas
/ Abbottabad |
| 23 |
Abbottabad
/ Taxila / Islamabad |
| 24 |
Islamabad |
|
|
 |
UNESCO
World Heritage Sites Visited
This tour has been tailored to include the following World
Heritage Sites |
| World
Heritage Sites in Uzbekistan covered in this tour |
| Historic
Centre of Khiva (1990) |
Along
with Samarkand and Bukhara, Khiva is an important and often
overlooked historical site on what was once the Great Silk
Road (Uzbek: Buyuk Ipak Yol'i). Famous for it's long and
brutal history as a slave trading post sandwiched in between
the vast Kyzylkum and Karakum deserts, Khiva is now a quiet,
sleepy oasis that awaits busloads of tourists instead of
caravans of captives. It's difficult imagine what exactly
ancient Khiva was like, considering the historical areas
were restored to a scrubbed and squeaky-clean look by the
Soviets in the 1970s. However, the clustered array of mosques,
madrassahs and tiled minarets within a area of less than
3km give you a sense of how crowded and bustling this town
must have been throughout it's history. |
| Historic
Centre of Bukhara (1993) |
Situated
on The Silk Road, Bukhara is more than two thousand years
old. It is the most complete example of a medieval city in
Central Asia, with an urban fabric that has remained largely
intact. The monuments of interest include the Ismail Samani's
famous tomb, a masterpiece of 10th-century Moslem architecture,
and a number of 17th-century medersas. |
| Historic
Centre of Shakhrisyabz (2000) |
The
historic centre of Shakhrisyabz contains a collection of
exceptional monuments and ancient quarters which bear witness
to the centuries of its history, and particularly to the
period of its apogee, under the empire of Timur, in the 15th
century. |
| Samarkand
- Crossroads of Cultures (2001) |
The
historic town of Samarkand is a crossroad and melting pot
of the world's cultures. Founded in the 7th century BC as
ancient Afrasiab, Samarkand had its most significant development
in the Timurid period from the 14th to the 15th centuries.
The major monuments include the Registan Mosque and madrasahs,
Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the Shakhi-Zinda compound and the Gur-Emir
ensemble, as well as Ulugh-Beg's Observatory. |
| World
Heritage Sites in Pakistan covered in this tour |
| Taxila
(1980) |
From the ancient Neolithic tumulus
of Saraikala to the ramparts of Sirkap (2nd century B.C.) and
the city of Sirsukh (1st century A.D.), Taxila illustrates
the different stages in the development of a city on the Indus
that was alternately influenced by Persia, Greece and Central
Asia and which, from the 5th century B.C. to the 2nd century
A.D., was an important Buddhist centre of learning. |
| Detailed
Itinerary |
Day
01, Fri: Arrive Tashkent (UZBEKISTAN)
Hush ellipsis! A warm welcome in Uzbek language as we are warmly welcomed and
subsequently conveyed through the capital city to our hotel
Overnight: Dedeman Hotel, (1 night) (D)
Day 02, Sat: Tashkent / Samarkand – 330 Kms.
Our journey starts with a brief tour of the old part of Tashkent – a good
introduction to the Silk Road in Central Asia with a visit to the colourful Chorsu
Bazaar. Medieval history is everywhere as we explore Kafelsashi Mausoleum, Barak
Khana, Tila Shaikh Mosque and Archives before heading off to the beautiful and
historical city of Samarkand. After an evening rest in our hotel, we visit the
famous Registan Square to see the beautiful madrassah illuminated. Subject to
shows, we will witness an awesome Sound & Light Show followed by a typical
and delicious Uzbeki dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel Samarkand Plaza, Samarkand (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 03, Sun: Samarkand
An exciting day ahead as we explore Samarkand continuing with a day time visit
of the Registan Square which will also include marveling the historical madrassahs.
Later, we visit the remarkable Bibi Khanum mosque, the intriguing Silk Road bazaar
and the Shahi Zinda Necropolis. Our post lunch tour includes the Afrosiab Museum,
Ulugbek’s Observatory, Gur Emir, Mausoleum of Tamerlane and time in the
local bazaar. Dinner at a local restaurant joining the local folk and learning
how to dance. (B, L, D)
Day
04, Mon: Samarkand / Shakre Sabz / Bukhara – 378Kms.
A countryside drive takes us to Shakre Sabz, birthplace of Tamerlane, the founder
of Uzbekistan. This is followed by a visit to the Ak-Saray Palace ruins, Dorus
Saidat Seminary, Kok Gumbaz Mosque, Dorus Saidat and the Friday Mosque. After
lunch, we continue our drive to the historical city of Bukhara.
Overnight: Hotel Zargaron Bukhara / Zargaron (2 nights)
(B, L, D)
Day 05, Tue: Bukhara
Bukhara, a World heritage Site, is a true reflection of the Arabian Nights. Walking
through the narrow lanes, we visit Lyabikhauz, Madrassahs of Nadirkhon Devanbegi,
Aziziz Khan and Ulugbek, Khanaga, Mogaki Attari Mosque and the beuatiful Poi
Kalon minaret and mosque. A Bukhara style lunch and we then visit the famous
Ark Fortress, the majestic Balakhauz Mosque, Mausoleum of Ismail Samanid and
Chasma Ayub. We end the day with free time at the exotic Silk Road bazaar. This
evening we visit with a local family to join them for home cooked Bukhari delicacy. (B,
L, D)
Day 06, Wed: Bukhara/Ayaz Kala – 440 Kms.
A very different experience today as we depart for Ayaz Kala through the Kizilkum
(red sands) desert where we visualize the crossing of the hordes of Chengis Khan – a
man who that changed the history of the world. As we approach Beruni city we
see Amudarya before taking an interesting drive seeing local villages and the
desert before reaching our Yorta – a type that Chenghiz Khan and his large
army may have used. Facing the Ayaz Kala, we settle in our Yortas, a round shaped
nomadic tent made of felt and bamboo sticks decorated inside with typical folk
painting. This evening we enjoy a BBQ dinner and musical entertainment.
Overnight: Yorta (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 07, Thu: Ayaz Kala / Khiva – 100 kms
The treat of Ayaz Kala does not end with the Yorta and cultural experience of
the previous night. This morning we capture the first rays of the sun falling
over the massive fort, and witness an awe-inspiring sunrise. We continue following
the footsteps of Chenghiz Khan and visit the nearby Toprak Kala Fort – one
that was used for the ruling class. Forts here were constructed primarily to
protect the Trans-Oxiana kingdoms from tribal raids and later served as pleasure
houses for the rulers. After crossing the Amudarya (Oxus River), we encounter
yet another highlight of Central Asia, the city of Khiva – another World
Heritage Site. Evening, we stroll through the town and picture ourselves in the
land of a thousand and one nights!
Overnight: Hotel Malika, Khiva (1night) (B, L, D)
Day 08, Fri: Khiva / Urgench – 30 kms; Urgench / Tashkent by air
An experience into medieval times today. Our day in Khiva starts with a visit
to Ichan Kala, Kalta Minor, Kunya Ark, Madrassah Rakhimkhon, and the local handicrafts
at the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud. From here, we visit the famous see Islam
Khodja minaret and museum, the Friday Mosque, Tashauli Palace/harem and a Caravan
Bazaar. We have an excellent opportunity of meeting locals folks and joining
them at a traditional teahouse. After dinner, we proceed to the airport in Urgench
for our flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel.
Overnight: Dedeman, Tashkent (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day
09, Sat: Tashkent / Ferghana – 348 kms
We continue with the second part of the Tashkent tour visiting the famous Navoi
Theatre, Ballet Theatre and Museum of Fine Arts. Later we explore more of Uzbekistan
taking a rural scenic drive to the enchanting rich Ferghana Valley. En route
we stop at various villages and have tea with the locals. Ferghana is always
a very welcome site with its lovely rolling green fields and friendly people.
Overnight: Hotel Asia Ferghana (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 10, Sun: Ferghana / Osh (KYRGYZSTAN) – 118 kms; Osh / Bishkek
(by air)
In 329 BC, Alexander the Great founded a Greek settlement in the southwestern
part of the Ferghana valley, on the southern bank of the river Syr Darya (ancient
Jaxartes), at the location of the modern city of Khujand, in the state of Tajikistan.
Our visit here covers the local History Museum and the famous Sunday Bazaar in
Andijan. Crossing into Kyrgyzstan and a short drive from the border we reach
Osh – the second largest city of Kyrgyzstan. We explore with a drive through
tour of the city before we are transferred to the airport for our flight to the
capital city of Bishkek.
Overnight: Hotel Silk Road Lodge, Bishkek (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 11, Mon: Bishkek / Issikul – 254 kms
Our tour of the Krgyz capital starts with the History Museum famous for its collection
of Bolshevik Revolution artifacts. Next we visit Frunze’s House, named
after the Soviet General Michael Frunze who won Central Asia for the Bolsheviks
in the Civil War. Now we are off to the Burana Tower Archaeological Museum is
situated on the site of a caravan town dating from the 10th Century AD. We arrive
in Issyk-Kul in the evening and then drive to Cholpan Ata, a major resort centre.
We enjoy a dinner caught fresh from the lake after which we take an evening we
stroll around this beautiful lake.
Overnight: Hotel New Issikul, Cholpan Ata (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 12, Tue: Issikul / Karakol – 138 kms
Cholpan Ata is a beautiful resort and we take it easy with a leisurely day. Late
morning we depart for the Cholpan Ata Museum and the nearby historic rock drawings.
This afternoon we visit Tyup to see the Monument and Museum of Prezhevalsky – the
famous Russian explorer who spent the best years of his life in the region conducting
research on animal and plant life. Prezhevalsky was sent by Nikolai, the Czar
of Mongolia and Tibet as part of the Russian diplomacy during the era of the
Great Game.
Later we proceed to Karakol – the black mountains.
Overnight: Hotel Amir, Karakol (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 13, Wed: Karakol
Karakol is Kyrgyzstan at its best. Our morning excursion is to Djeti Oghuz – the
nomads’ meadow with beautiful mountain scenery of the Tien Shan ranges.
We visit the yorta encampment of the local Kirghiz and join them for soup followed
by a BBQ lunch at the meadow. Time for short hike before visiting the local Russian
Orthodox Church and the Dungan mosque. (B, L, D)
Day
14, Thu: Karakol / Naryn – 395 kms
Today is our last full day in the Central Asian stans. As we journey towards
China, we have brief scenic photo shots of Kirghiz encampments. Upon arrival
at the small border town of Naryn, we visit the well-known Naryn Mosque. Later
we go out for a stroll in this one street town.
Overnight: Celestial Mountain Inn, Naryn (1 night)
(B, L, D)
Day 15, Fri: Naryn / Torogart border – 197 kms to Kashgar (CHINA)
We start today with a visit to the Tash Rabat Caravan Sarai, which was in use
till the end of 17th century AD. Then we are off to Torogart border Point and
after border formalities, we proceed to Torogart Top (2752 m) where we are welcomed
officially into China by our local guide. After completing the Chinese border
formalities, we drive to Kashgar where we spend three interesting days filled
with activities. Kashgar’s history spans over 2000 years and its importance
comes from its strategic position at the foot of the Pamir Mountains. At one
time merchants bound for China would buy camels here to convey their merchandise
to the Kingdom of Cathay. For westbound caravans, this was a resting place before
their climb through the high mountain passes.
Overnight: Seman, Kashgar (3 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 16, Sat: Kashgar
Kashgar is a place where time has seemingly stood still. We start the day with
an experience of Kashgi, the local name for Kashgar. We start with the Id Kah
Mosque (the largest in China) and Abakh Khoja’s tomb (Xinjiang’s
most revered monument and an architectural marvel). Exploring the old town we
visit family homes, the local bazaar and a school. One finds walking through
the narrow lanes of old town, a scene from the bygone days of the Arabian Nights
with a culture that has remained intact stocked with people whose lifestyle is
being friendly. Amongst the most popular professions include coppersmiths, blacksmiths,
carpenters, jewelers and cobblers all using tools that are at best antiques. (B,
L, D)
Day 17, Sun: Kashgar Sunday Bazaar
An experience, which only Kashgar offers. Miles from nowhere, mid-way between
Rome and Beijing, this exotic oasis used to be the last outfitting station on
the centuries-old Silk Road. Trade remains in bygone style, at least on Sundays,
when the entire community gathers at the world's liveliest market. Known as "the
pearl on the Ancient Silk Road", the Sunday Bazaar is dotted with stalls
here and there. Throughout the bazaars, one finds shopkeepers that sell almost
everything while others specialize in local produce, arts and crafts, garments,
knives, timber, coal, and animals. Afternoon is free at leisure and evening we
join for a typically Kashgari meal. (B, L, D)
Day 18, Mon: Kashgar / Taxkorgan
The scenery is incredible as we drive south to Karakuli Lake where we see the
two faces of the awesome Muztagh-ata mountain – one facing us and the other
reflected from the still waters of the lake. After lunch, we have time for short
hike before continuing to the end of Turkmenistan, at Tashkurgan, the border
town before we take on the Khunjerab Pass the following day. Tashkurgan, a city
once controlled by the Bolsheviks, is now inhabited mostly by Tajiks. This evening
we stroll through this one street town in this faraway land with its hospitable
people.
Overnight: Pamir, Tashkurgan (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 19, Tue: Sust / Hunza (PAKISTAN)
We start with our Chinese exit formalities and then drive via the magnificent
Khunjerab Pass into Pakistan. This route is a beautiful drive, with majestic
views of the high mountains of the Karakoram and the distant Pamir Mountain Ranges.
At Khunjerab National Park, one can see Marco Polo Sheep (obis ammon poli). We
are welcomed into Pakistan at Sust check post where after border formalities,
we continue through a spectacular scenic journey viewing lofty mountains with
stops in remote mountain villages. At Gulmit, we visit local homes, the village
centre and school, before reaching the mountain kingdom of Hunza (284 km).
Overnight: Hill Top / Hunza Baltit, Hunza (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day
20, Wed: Excursion Nagar and Hunza sightseeing
Hunza is probably most famous for the longevity of its people, due in main part
to the simplicity of their lifestyle and natural diet, combined with the unpolluted
mountain air. Tibetan traders referred to the beauty of this humble paradise
as "Shangri-La". Our tour of this area will include meeting with local
folks, and visits to some of the important historical sites including the recently
renovated, simple yet overpowering, Baltit Fort and the Ganesh watch Tower. Visits
to Nagar Valley and Hopper Glacier are also included. Our visit to the Baltit
Fort is of immense interest. For many years the fort served as an administrative
headquarter and home to the former Mirs (rulers) of Hunza. The porters who accompanied
the Balti bride for the then Mir of Hunza built it more than 700 years ago. And
the style of construction originates from Ladakh. A maze of rooms serving as
living and administrative offices were added periodically, designed with indigenous
woodwork. It is strategically located on a prospect point, which gives it an
immense overview of Hunza and neighboring valleys. Currently it serves as a Fort
Museum with a good collection of artifacts and musical instruments from Hunza.
The fort is now administered by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Foundation, which
undertook the reconstruction and re-establishment to its original grandeur. Visit
to Hoper offers a fine view of some of the highest peaks in Hunza and Nagar.
We visit the villages and bazaars around Karimabad and get lots of opportunities
of meeting and talking with the Hunzakuts. (B, L, D)
Day 21, Thu: Hunza / Gilgit / Chilas
En route to Gilgit we witness what is surely the most spectacular view of the
majestic Rakaposhi peak. We feel so close to the peak yet it takes days of trekking
before one can reach the base! We visit the Pak-China memorial for the memories
of those workers who sacrificed their life during the construction of the Karkoram
Highway and also at local villages before reaching Gilgit where our tour includes
the historical rock carving of Buddha at Kargah. Next stroll through the narrow
lanes of the Gilgit Bazaar the local polo field where we may even witness a polo
match! As we continue on the Karakoram Highway driving alongside the River Indus
we stop at several photo and village stops, including Thaleche offering the best
view of the world’s 9th highest peak, Nanga Parbat (8125m). Leaving the
Karakorum ranges we are now entering the Himalayan mountain ranges.
Overnight: Chilas Inn / Panorama, Chilas (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 22, Fri: Chilas / Abbottabad
After breakfast we visit the rock carvings at Chilas and Shatial before continuing
on this incredible highway enjoying thrilling scenery and visiting villages at
Thakot and Mansehra before reaching the hill station town of Abbottabad. After
dinner at Abbotabad we take a tour of this popular mountain town and visit the
local bazaar where we find a cosmopolitan set up of people from all over Pakistan – either
visiting or as local traders.
Overnight: Pearl Continental, Abbottabad (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day
23, Sat: Abbottabad / Taxila / Islamabad
We enter a whole different era of history as we drive to Taxila the old city
of Gandhara civilization. The History of Taxila expands over a thousand years
- from 500 BC to 500 AD. Today the Museum of Taxila reflects the pure religion,
culture and tradition of the old Gandhara Civilization. After visiting Taxila
Museum and archaeological site, we take a scenic drive to the twin capital cities
of Rawalpindi/Islamabad. The twin cities offer a blend of the old and new and
our tour starts with the famous Raja Bazaar in Rawalpindi and the old garrison
town. From here the world changes, all of a sudden, as we enter Islamabad - a
modern well planned city. In Islamabad, we start with a visit to the well-stocked
Folk Heritage Museum where one can purchase a collection of Pakistan’s
folk songs, music and artifacts. Next we enter the popular Sharaparian (sweet
hills), where we get a bird’s eye view of this beautiful and modern city,
then take a drive through tour to see the majestic structures designed in Islamic
architecture, including the Parliament, Judiciary, Presidential palaces, and
other government and commercial buildings. This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner
at a local restaurant recapturing the fun and experiences of our Silk Road: From
Samarkand & Kashgar to Hunza journey.
Overnight: Regency / Marina (1 night) (B, L, D)
Day 24, Sun: Departure
After a wonderful journey that covered the best of Central Asia, Xinjiang and
Northern Pakistan, we bid farewell today as we are transferred to the airport
for our departure flight. (B) |
|
B
= Breakfast
|
L
= Lunch
|
D
= Dinner
|
|
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|
Departure Dates |
|
2010
May
14, Jun 25 & Sep 03
|
| Prices |
| Departure |
Tour
Price US$ |
Single
Sup US$ |
min 2 participants |
6995 |
895 |
| Tour
Price Includes |
Tour
Price Does Not Include: |
-
Accommodation as mentioned or similar, including hotel
taxes
-
Meals as mentioned (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch,
D=Dinner)
-
All sightseeing and transfers
-
Services of local English speaking guide
-
Entrance fees to museums and sites included in the itinerary
|
-
International Airfares
- Domestic
airfare (from $ 110.00)
-
Departure/Airport taxes
- Personal
Insurance
-
Visa fees
-
Beverages & Tips
|
| Estimated
International Airfare(not
included in tour price) |
| East
Coast |
US
$ 1600 |
| West
Coast |
US
$ 1400 |
| Please
note:
This tour operates with a minimum of 2
and a maximum of 16
participants. |
| Other
Dates / Customized Itinerary / Languages |
In addition to our set programs we are also pleased
to offer customized tours.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your
individual needs.
Customized tours can be conducted in English, French,
German, Spanish or Italian. Each departure is conducted
in the designated language only. |
| Contact
Information |
|
|
Fax:
+1-604-264-7774
|
| 206–8678
Greenall Ave |
Phone:
+1-604-264-7378 |
| Burnaby
B.C., Canada |
Toll
Free (US & Canada): 1-800-663-0844 |
| V5J
3M6 |
Email:
bestway@bestway.com |
|
33
years in small group journeys
|
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Site
updated Nov 07, 2011
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