Loading...
Ditch the skyscrapers for a skyline dotted with minarets! Immerse in Central Asia’s deep history and culture where every corner reveals a new wonder. Get swept away by the grandeur of opera houses and the ever-so-artsy metro stations. Glide across the world’s highest rink, haggle in vibrant bazaars, and fill your lungs with crisp alpine air. And just when you think you've seen it all, those majestic madrasas glowing against the night sky will leave you speechless. Come hop on this sensational, scenic and soul-stirring adventure!
March, April, September & October
12 days
Adventure, Food & Shopping, History & Architecture, Nature & Landscape
High-end boutique hotels
Start the trip at the stunning Khast Imam, a sprawling complex that is home to several important religious buildings, including the Barak-Khan Madrasah and the Tillya Sheikh Mosque. Then, dive into the vibrant chaos of Chorsu Bazaar. Have you ever wondered what a feast of colours and aromas feels like? Head over to the State Museum of Applied Art, a grand mansion decorated in traditional Uzbek style that has a superb collection of applied arts. Visit the Minor Mosque, a modern white-marble structure with a stunning blue dome that offers a serene space for worship. Cap-off the day with dinner at the famous April Verdant Restaurant.
Hilton Tashkent City
Explore the world of Amir Timur at the Amir Timur Museum. Feel the thrill of history as you explore artifacts and stories about this legendary conqueror. Just a few steps away, Amir Timur Square awaits. Next, get ready for a touch of opulence at the Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre. Catch a performance in a building that’s as grand as the shows it hosts. Also see the Independence Square, a symbolic central plaza featuring grand monuments, fountains, and lush gardens. And don’t miss the grand finale, a Tashkent Metro tour! Each station is a masterpiece of design, some of the best are - Alisher Navoi, Kosmonavtlar & Mustaqillik Maydoni.
Hilton Tashkent City
We bet you can’t take in the sheer splendour of these three majestic madrasas, Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tilla-Kori in the famous Registan Square, all at once! Wander over to the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum. Have you ever seen a mausoleum so breathtakingly beautiful? It’s a Timurid architectural gem. Spend your afternoon discovering Shah-i-Zinda. Stroll through a necropolis with mesmerising tilework and spiritual depth. As evening falls, return to Registan Square. Watch it come alive under the night sky! The glowing madrasas create a magical, fairy-tale scene that’s simply unforgettable.
Zarafshon Parkside
Be floored by the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world renowned for its massive dome and intricate tilework. Just a short stroll away, dive into the lively chaos of Siyob Bazaar. How fun is it to sample local delicacies and hunt for unique crafts? In the afternoon, venture to the ancient Ulugbek Observatory that would leave you wondering about the astronomical breakthroughs of the medieval world. This place is a testament to their brilliance. Wrap up your day at the Afrasiab Museum surrounded by artefacts from ancient Afrasiab, the predecessor of today’s Samarkand.
Zarafshon Parkside
Step into the serene Konigil Village and witness the ancient craft of Samarkand’s renowned paper-making. Here, artisans use traditional methods dating back to the 8th century, crafting paper from the bark of mulberry trees. Watch as the process unfolds, from pulping the bark to drying the sheets in the sun. Next, visit the sacred St. Daniel’s Tomb. Feel the tranquility of this revered site cherished by Muslims, Christians, and Jews. In the afternoon, wander through the Happy Bird Art Gallery. How delightful to see and perhaps take-home unique creations by local artists! End the night at Emirhan, serving local delicacies and melodious musical performances.
Zarafshon Parkside
Step into the ancient Ark Fortress, Bukhara’s historical heart. Roam through its museums and courtyards. Right across from the Ark, discover the Bolo Haouz Mosque. Marvel at its elegant wooden pillars and exquisite ceiling, a charming contrast to the fortress’s grand scale. Spend your afternoon at the Po-i-Kalyan Complex. Be floored by the impressive towering Kalyan Minaret and the majestic Kalyan Mosque. They dominate Bukhara’s skyline with grandeur. Take a leisurely stroll around Lyab-i-Hauz. Enjoy the peaceful pond and vibrant surroundings. Have a meal at Ayvan, where the food and the surroundings are nothing short of magnificent.
Hotel Malika Bukhara
Today will be a day of contrasts and discoveries. Start with uncovering the charm of Chor Minor with its four distinctive towers. Isn’t it fascinating how this tucked-away gem boasts such unique architecture? Spend the late morning meandering through Bukhara’s historic trading domes. Browse through markets bursting with jewellery, spices, and more. Visit Zindan, the former prison. Discover the intriguing, and at times dark, history of Bukhara and the notorious ‘Bug Pit.’ As the day wraps up, marvel at the Samanid Mausoleum set in a serene park. It’s one of Central Asia’s oldest and a stunning example of early Islamic design.
Hotel Malika Bukhara
Would you believe that one of the tallest wooden cathedrals in the world is in Almaty? Be amazed by the Zenkov Cathedral, a magnificent architectural wonder built entirely without nails and standing tall since 1907. Take a break and stroll through Park 28 (Panfilov Park), home to the eternal flame dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War II. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Kazakhstan’s artistic soul at the A. Kasteev State Museum of Arts and see both traditional and modern masterpieces all in one place. Come evening, head to the First President Park, a peaceful green space with mountain views, tree-lined paths, and fountains.
The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty
A day tour to Charyn Canyon showcases the breathtaking beauty of three distinct canyons - the famous Valley of the Castles, known for its red rock formations resembling palaces and towers, the less-visited Moon (Yellow) Canyon, with its stunning yellow sediment cliffs and the Black Canyon, the deepest, carved by the Charyn River. Enjoy picnic spots along the Charyn River and capture breathtaking photos of the rugged terrain. The excursion is planned to optimize lighting for photography, making it an unforgettable experience of Kazakhstan’s dramatic natural landscapes.
The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty
This is by far the best morning escape from the city! Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of Big Almaty Lake, a stunning mountain gem with turquoise waters mirroring the towering peaks around it. After soaking in the serenity, make your way to Kok Tobe Hill. How about a thrilling cable car ride to the top, where sweeping views of the city and majestic mountains await? Next, lace up your skates at Medeu, the world’s highest skating rink at 1691m above sea level. Glide across the ice where Olympic champions have trained, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy dinner at Line Brew Almaty, a local favourite renowned for its hearty Kazakh cuisine.
The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty
Step into Bishkek’s beating heart at Ala-Too Square, where central-asia statues, grand fountains, and historic buildings set the stage. Just steps away, the State History Museum pulls you in with tales of Kyrgyzstan’s past, think ancient legends mixed with Soviet stories. Ready to tantalise your senses? Osh Bazaar is calling your name! Weave through vibrant stalls, taste local flavours, and find souvenirs. As the afternoon unfolds, pay your respects at Victory Square, a solemn World War II memorial featuring an eternal flame and poignant sculptures. Finally, unwind with a peaceful picnic at Panfilov Park that offers a perfect balance to the busy day.
Orion Hotel Bishkek
Ala Archa National Park calls for an early adventure, just an hour's drive from Bishkek. Can you imagine hiking through breathtaking gorges, surrounded by towering peaks and lush alpine landscapes? For those with a spirit for the challenge, reaching the waterfalls or even the glaciers offer an exhilarating reward. If craving more natural beauty, Alamedin Gorge offers a scenic escape with lush greenery, alpine meadows, and the rushing Alamedin River. It's a popular spot for hiking, and relaxing in nature. End the night with dinner at Frunze, a befitting finale to feast your soul on this grand journey!
Orion Hotel Bishkek