Silk and Spices Festival Spring Journey 11 days

11 days/10 nights |
Tours from 795$
Book now
  • DESCRIPTION
  • TOUR PROGRAM
  • BUDGET
  • REVIEWS

Itinerary: Tashkent – Khiva – Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand– Tashkent

Mysterious caravan route and ancient way of communication of peoples, the Silk Road continues to hide its secrets … For several millennia spices from India and costly silk which secret was jealously guarded during several centuries by Chinese emperors – these treasures of the Orient were delivered along the Silk Road.

Though several centuries have passed, history protects the value of silk and knowledge about Uzbek silk produced in traditional workshops. In the heart of the desert between the red sand dunes, one of the real emeralds of the Silk Road survives: the city Bukhara. This pearl is ready to dazzle the eyes of travelers for three beautiful days of spring thanks to the Silk and Spices festival, where you can discover the legendary city of Bukhara and the phenomenal beauty of the East.

It is a celebration of craftsmen with the best folk artisans gathering from all over the country. In addition, thanks to the folklore artists, theatre companies and musical performances, the city will plunge into a warm festive atmosphere that will please you. During these few days, the beauty of mosaics, minarets and joyful music will be in harmony with a spring mood.

We invite you to take a dip in bright silk and fine flavors of spices of the East.

Tour program:

Arrival to Tashkent by international flight. Meet your guide and driver. (Accommodation in the hotel after 12:00 or early check-in) City tour of the capital of Uzbekistan. Visit Hast Imam Complex with  Barakhan Madrasah, Tilla Sheih mosque and the mausoleum of Kafal Shashi (XVI c). Walk through Chorsu bazar of the old town. Museum of Applied Art. Dinner. Overnight at hotel of Tashkent.

After breakfast transfer to airport for flight to Urgench at 7:25 Arrival in Urgench at 08:55 and transfer to Khiva (35km). Accomodation at hotel after 12:00. Full day excursion.

Ichan-Qala  is the historical center of Khiva which has been inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage List. City tour around the architectural complex “Ichan-Qala”: Kunya-Ark Khan’s castle – the inner citadel of Ichan-Qala (16-17th cc.), Kalta Minor Tower (Short minaret) that would have become the biggest and tallest minaret in Central Asia (19th c.), Muhammad Amin-Khan – the biggest  medieval madrasah in Khiva (1845-1855 yy.), Djuma mosque with 220 wooden columns and a minaret 32 meters high. Lunch at a local restaurant. Tash Hauli (Stone courtyard) palace looking like a fortress with a high battlements, towers and fortified gates (19th c.), Ak mosque (White Mosque) – a small quarter mosque by the  gates of Palvan-Darvaza (1838-1842), necropolis of Pahlavan Mahmud – the cultic center of Ichan-Qala (1810-1913 yy.), residence of Islam Khodja (1910 y.) – the vizier of the last khan. Ensemble consists of the smallest madrasah in Khiva and a minaret which top platform has a height of 45 m and is the highest observation point in town. Dinner.

After a little rest in the hotel, be sure to take a walk in Khiva in the evening! Khiva at night is the eighth miracle of the world! Walking along the streets of this town, where minarets rise and the sky is filled with large, bright stars you will find yourself in a fairy tale! And words cannot discribe extraordinary calmness and peace in the air! Overnight at hotel of Khiva.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer from Khiva to Bukhara by car or minibus (480 km, 8 h.). We travel to Bukhara through Kyzylkum Desert. On the way stop at the Amu Darya River and near the seif-dunes.  The name “Kyzylkum”  translated from Turkic means “red sands.” Lunch on the road at a choykhana (tea house). Arrival in Bukhara in the evening. Accommodation in hotel. Overnight at hotel of Bukhara.

Breakfast at the hotel. Opening of the Silk and Spices Festival in Bukhara with its great turquoise domes, slender minarets and mosques with impressive facades decorated with blue tiles. The theatre procession of the festival participants starts from the monument of Hodja Nasreddin and goes to Poi-Kalon – the religious center of the city. The architectural complex includes the Miri Arab madrasah, Juma Mosque and the Kalon minaret – a symbol of Bukhara. You will also walk through old trading domes including Togi Saraffon (dome of money- changers), Togi Telpak Furushon (dome of hat makers) and Togi Zargaron (dome of jewellers). Puppet theatre and Uzbek classical music concert. A visit to the Labi Hauz landmark with the Kukeldash madrasah and Nodir Devon Begi madrasah located on the near a water pool surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Possibility to visit the exhibition of photographs “Images of Bukhara.”

Today you can visit a fair of silk, spices, miniatures, carved wooden products, etc…. We continue to explore the city – citadel Ark, former residence of Emirs of Bukhara, mausoleum of Samanids, Chashma Ayub mausoleum. Exhibition of famous Bukhara carpets and suzani, panels made of fabric decorated with silk. Presentation of various spices where you can enjoy green tea and nuga with the addition of spices, the recipe of which dates from the XVII century. Overnight at hotel of Bukhara.

After breakfast a walking tour of Bukhara: visit Kosh Madrasah ensemble consisting of two madrasahs: Ulugbek and Abdulazizhan. Opportunity to see documentaries about Bukhara history. Tasting of the best varieties of wines of Uzbekistan in a caravanserai. After the fair in Labi House Square – a demonstration of traditional embroidery of susani and products decorated with gold thread.

The road to Samarkand is called the “Royal Road” and in ancient times it was an important route of the Great Silk Road connecting the main cities of Mavarannahr: Samarkand and Bukhara. Stop in Uzbek village and opportunity to see silkworm cultivation. The silk worm in the shape of a caterpillar has a great appetite. It eats day and night and prefers only mulberry tree leaves. Throughout life, a caterpillar eats 2 tons of mulberry tree leaves for 62,000 silkworm cocoons, of which only 100 kilograms of cocoons and 19 kilograms of silk are obtained. On the way to Samarkand, visit a pottery workshop in Gijduwan. Gijduwan Ceramics Workshop is known throughout Uzbekistan and is protected by UNESCO. Lunch at the pottery house, after lunch visit ruins in the Rabati Malik caravanserai dating back to the 11th century. Cross the road to see an old Sardoba (a reservoir of water for caravans). Continue the journey to Samarkand. Arrival and accommodation at the hotel.

After breakfast – a city tour of Samarkand – the Pearls of the East – a magical name that arouses interest and plunges us into the atmosphere of Asia. The first landmark is the famous Registran square surrounded by madrasahs with high gates, mausoleum of Guri-Emir, with the most beautiful ribbed dome decorated with papier-mache inside. Lunch in a national house (included in the price). After lunch, a visit to the surviving part of the Ulugbek Observatory –  the first observatory in the East, where stars could be contemplated with the help of a huge sexant.

Continuation of the excursion: Bibi Hanum – the largest mosque of its time in the whole region of Central Asia, the necropolis of Shahi Zinda – the real pearl of Samarkand architecture of the 14th-15th centuries, a unique complex where you can find all artistic processes of decoration of Islamic buildings. A walk through the picturesque Siab bazaar, one of the city ‘s busiest and most colourful locations. Overnight at hotel of Samarkand.

Departure to Tashkent by a high-speed train through the “Hungry Steppe” largely irrigated by the Syrdarya River  where cotton, the “white gold of Uzbekistan” is grown. Arrival and accommodation at the hotel. Sightseeing in the capital rich in parks, fountains and historical attractions: Independence Square, Amir Temur Square, Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theater and beautiful metro stations of the city. Overnight at hotel of Tashkent.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for international flight home.

End of the programme.

Price per person in USD:
Pax 6
Price per person 795

Price includes:

  • Accommodation in twin rooms at 3 – 4 * hotels breakfast included.
  • Transportation for the whole period of the tour on comfortable air-conditioned transportation, including all airport transfers.
  • Professional English-speaking local guides (specify language of your choice).
  • Lunch at a national house in Samarkand on Day 8.
  • Train tickets Samarkand-Tashkent (economy class).

Price does not include:

  • Entrance tickets to the museums and sights.
  • Meals, except lunch in Samarkand on Day 8.
  • Insurance.
  • Personal expenses and tips.

Notice:

  • The program will be specified in accordance with the schedule of arrival and departure of the international flights.
  • We are open to any suggestions to increase the range of our services for the complete satisfaction of our clients. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your individual needs.
  • The cost of the tour will vary depending on the number of guests and the selected transport (car, minibus, bus).
  • The cost of the tour can be paid by bank transfer, credit card or other means agreed upon in advance when ordering the tour.

Cancellation fees:

  • Cancellation prior 30 days – no charges apply
  • Cancellation prior 15 days – 50% charge of the tour price
  • Cancellation prior 7 days – 100% charge of the tour price

Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to book the tour:

info@marakandatravel.com

marakanda.travel@gmail.com

Telegram: +99897 7401174

HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP!

Reviews
Bruno Tredez France
Silk and Spices Festival Spring Journey 11 days

May 2022
Circuit de 10 jours en petit groupe effectué par l’intermédiaire de Marakanda Travel.
Visite des incontournables Boukhara et Samarkande mais aussi de la nature qui vaut le coup (désert, montagne et lacs).
J’ai apprécié la quiétude des lieux et la gentillesse des ouzbeks, et les Guides compétents et efficaces.

Bruno Tredez

Leave your review

Leave your review
Other tours
1 Day Horseback riding in Chimgan
1 Day Horseback riding in Chimgan

Spend a day riding horses in the Chimgan Mountains. A popular getaway for locals who want to get away from the city, spend some time with their families in nature, go hiking in the summer, and go skiing in the winter. Follow a mountain path used primarily by shepherds and a relatively small number of ...

Uzbekistan Birdwatching Tour
Uzbekistan Birdwatching Tour

Stay type: a combination (of ornithology, naturalist, and cultural tourism) Jizzak, Navoi, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent regions are among the places to stay. Best Time to visit: April’s end and May’s first Duration: 12 days and 10 nights Professional ornithologists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world come to Uzbekistan to explore its diverse animal ...

Uzbekistan 11 Days

Uzbekistan is really quite a safe country to visit! Uzbekistan Is Recognized as One of the Safest Countries for Tourists.The ancient land of Uzbekistan, with its historical monuments, reflecting a long and a wealthy history, keep a lot of secrets and mysteries.

Nurata Mountains Tour

Trekking/hiking tour in Nurata mountains is a perfect leisure after a working week or a good addition to your tour in Uzbekistan.

Chimgan Horse Riding Adventure
Chimgan Horse Riding Adventure

Trekking on horseback – Uzbekistan's Tien Shan

from 175$
Details
Botanical Journey in Kyzyl Kum Desert

Study of the flowers of Uzbekistan while travelling in the magical country. Studying the flowers of Western Tien Shan.

Central Asia in 2 Weeks

We invite you on this fascinating trip to three countries of Central Asia to study its diversity, its color and hospitality of the Asian people.

Grand Tour Uzbekistan Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan

On this great trip to three Central Asian countries you will visit Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

from 2150$
Details
3 Stans Tour – Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Tajikistan 16 days

In this fascinating trip to three Central Asian countries, you will visit the legendary cities of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan 13 Days
Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan 13 Days

On this tour you will visit great cities of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which were important in the chain of the Great Silk Road, which once connected East and West and caused the emergence of many unique cities.

Cycling Holidays in Uzbekistan 15 days 14 nights
Cycling Holidays in Uzbekistan 15 days 14 nights

This bike tour includes not only active city walks, visits to the ancient cities of the Great Silk Road, but also trips to remote rural places of Uzbekistan, where you can communicate with locals, learn their culture and way of life.

Bike Ride around Tashkent 4 days
Bike Ride around Tashkent 4 days

Uzbekistan's natural wealth and favorable climate create excellent opportunities for the development of various types of tourism such as tracking, cycling, horseback riding, mountain tourism and much more. 60 km northeast of Tashkent, there is Bostanlyk region, which is the subtropical zone of Tien Shan.

New Year 2022 in Uzbekistan 7 days 6 nights

Celebrate the New Year in Uzbekistan and you will see how much joy the New Year will bring you!

Adventure Bike Tour of Uzbekistan 22 days
Adventure Bike Tour of Uzbekistan 22 days

Route length: 1900 km, of which about 1150 km of bicycle route.

Bicycle Tour in Uzbekistan 8 days 6 nights
Bicycle Tour in Uzbekistan 8 days 6 nights

In just 8 days cycle from Tashkent to legendary cities of Bukhara, Shahrisabz and Samarkand, passing through rural areas and picturesque landscapes

Land of Steppes and Mountains
Land of Steppes and Mountains

Discover Uzbekistan by bicycle – explore the country with a rich cultural heritage, unique nature and hospitable people.

Magnificent Cities – Samarkand Bukhara Tashkent 5 days 4 nights

Magnificent cities of Uzbekistan - Samarkand and Bukhara. Unforgettable oriental atmosphere, historical monuments of ancient cities of the world.

from 590$
Details
Khiva – the City of One Thousand and One Nights

In Khiva you get into some completely different reality which excites your imagination and gives great food for impressions and reflection.

from 195$
Details
Across Uzbekistan by Train 11 days
Across Uzbekistan by Train 11 days

The most interesting places and people, positive emotions from what you see will make your rest unforgettable.

from 795$
Details
Across Uzbekistan by Train 8 days

Walk the streets of legendary Samarkand and Bukhara, get acquainted with local people and culture.

from 575$
Details
Chimgan Horseback Riding
Chimgan Horseback Riding

You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy this riding tour.

Silk and Spices Festival Spring Journey 11 days

We invite you to take a dip in bright silk and fine flavors of spices of the East.

from 795$
Details
Uzbekistan in the Off-season 8 days 7 nights
Uzbekistan in the Off-season 8 days 7 nights

We are glad to offer you this classic tour of Uzbekistan with a discount in autumn-winter season.

from 481$
Details
Silk Road Tour: Kyrgyzstan, China (Kashgar Xinjiang-Uighur Autonomous Region), Uzbekistan
Silk Road Tour: Kyrgyzstan, China (Kashgar Xinjiang-Uighur Autonomous Region), Uzbekistan

Admire ancient cities of Tashkent, following the route of the Great Silk road caravans.

Route along the Great Silk Road – Uzbekistan – Turkmenistan – Kyrgyzstan – China (Kashgar)

Enjoy some of the oldest towns of the world with ancient citadels in Uzbekistan and Turkmentistan.

Horseback Riding Tour in Nuratau Mountains 6 days

You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy this riding tour.

Uzbekistan Classical Tour 8 days 7 nights

Achieve you dream through discovering the ancient East!

from 535$
Details
Samarkand and Shahrisabz 3 days 2 nights

Studying of history of the past in combination with good rest.

from 230$
Details
Fergana Valley Tour

On this tour you will get acquainted with the history and culture of this unique area.

from 105$
Details
Fergana Valley – the Pearl of Uzbekistan 2 days
Fergana Valley – the Pearl of Uzbekistan 2 days

Explore the best of Fergana Valley on this two-day tour.

from 180$
Details
Excursion in Tashkent 5-6 hours

Tashkent is like an eternally green plane tree - always sunny and full of life.

from 30$
Details
Bukhara and Samarkand by Rail 3 days

On this three-day tour you will take a walk in magical Bukhara.

from 250$
Details
2-Day Tour to Samarkand

On this tour you will learn about the history and culture of Samarkand.

from 155$
Details
1-Day Samarkand Cultural Tour by Train

On this one-day trip you will learn about the history of Samarkand.

from 85$
Details
Youth Adventure Tour

Challenge yourself in the new conditions of the steppes and mountains of Uzbekistan!

Aral Sea Tour
Aral Sea Tour

Although the tour is not physically challenging, you need to have a lot of energy for the excursion to the sea, as the way is quite long.

Jeep Tours in Uzbekistan

We offer a variety of high quality, scenic and informative jeep tours you can choose from.

Eco Tour to Zaamin National Park
Eco Tour to Zaamin National Park

Zaamine is an environmentally friendly area that has preserved its pristine beauty.

Amirsoy Ski Resort
Amirsoy Ski Resort

World Class All-Season Mountain Resort AMIRSOY

Bike Tour from Urgench 17 days
Bike Tour from Urgench 17 days

In Uzbekistan you will experience real hospitality of local people towards guests.

Aydarkul Lake Yurt Camp and Camel Safari 3 days
Aydarkul Lake Yurt Camp and Camel Safari 3 days

Relax, swim and fish on Lake Aydarkul.

from 170$
Details
New Year 2022 in Uzbekistan 7 days 6 nights

We invite you to celebrate the New Year in hospitable Uzbekistan!

from 560$
Details
Termez and Boisun – 3 days

We will visit amazing places: Baisun and Termez.

from 230$
Details
One Day Chimgan Mountain Trip from Tashkent

Chimgan is Tashkent’s favourite weekend getaway.

from 100$
Details
from 365$
Details
Open chat
1
Hi there 👋

How can I help you ?