Overview
Take a guided tour to explore Samarkand— a fairy tale city along the ancient Silk Road. Transportation is included through the tour. Learn the technique how in VIII century people in Samarkand made a silk paper from mulberry. Travel back in time in a famous Registan square of Samarkand. Go at your own pace on this private tour. Feel free to customize this tour based on the interests of your private group.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- English speaking tour guide with you for the day trip
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Entrance tickets to the monuments
- Photo and video charges 5 usd (for photography cameras. It is free if travelers use phone cameras)
- Gratuities
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Samarkand Handmade Paper Centre— for centuries Samarkand was famous for its mulberry paper and famed for its durability and resistance to insects. Production died out in the 18th century and this UNESCO backed project in the eastern suburbs aims to revive the 2000-year-old tradition. Guests can see process of making Samarkand paper from mulberry bark.
Stop 2
The Ulugbek Observatory, built by Amir Temur’s grandson astronomer-king Ulugbek in XV century.
Stop 3
The complex Shahi Zinda (“alive king” in Uzbek) from XII-XX centuries. Burial place of royal persons and nobles. One of the most spiritual place in Uzbekistan.
Stop 4
Bibi Hanim mosque XV century. The mosque was built in honour of Temur’s chief wife, Saray Mulk Khanum.
Stop 5
Gur-Amir mausoleum (“the tomb of the king” in Uzbek) from XV century.
Stop 6
Registan square (“sandy place” in Uzbek) from XV-XVII centuries. A spectacular architectural ensembles, with fantastic Islamic designs and calligraphy etched into the facades of its mosques and madrassahs.
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Duration of the tour is from 6 to 7 hours which includes driving from one sightseeing place into other which takes 10-15 minutes each and lunch time.
- On this tour you visit architectural marvels which have a rich history and important religious sites. It’s recommended to follow a specific dress code when visiting these iconic landmarks. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tight, revealing, or transparent clothing. Women should cover their hair with a headscarf or shawl when they enter to holy places.