Location: Tashkent
Day 1 - 18 Aug 2017
Tashkent International Airport
Content: We packed our bags and left to catch a flight to Uzbekistan. Flying is the most comfortable way to reach Uzbekistan. The main international airport is located in Tashkent. Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines major airlines between the countries. Tashkent airport has two separate terminals. Basic facilities are available in the airport. We thought that it was basically a deserted country but apart from our expectations, it was full of cultural attractions. Tiled mosques and impressive architectural buildings with lot of cultures are the impressive aspects of the country. We felt that it was the perfect spot to experience spiritual life of Central Asia.
Art Hostel
Content: We took accommodation at the heart of the city, checked in to the Art Hostel. It was very comfortable with impressive rooms. They picked us from the airport and transfer to the hotel. The staff was very friendly and polite. It was not luxurious accommodation but well maintained for a reasonable price. All basic amenities are included in our stay. We got enough time to explore the city on the first day as we arrived morning itself. We took some time at the hotel before headed to the city.
Chorsu Bazaar
Content: By evening we hired a taxi and headed to Chorsu Bazaar. It was the biggest and oldest traditional Bazar in the city of Tashkent. It was the first place we visited in Tashkent, which is full of bright colors. It was an ideal spot for European market lovers. All kinds of food, clothes and other products were available there. We walked around the market to analyze the vibrant colors of their life. We climbed up to view the entire market from a top angle. In this way, we encountered many local vendors with some aromatic tea and spices. There are many other famous attractions around the market, we dedicated the next day to visit all these. We saw varieties of spices like pepper, thyme, cloves, and cardamoms. Fresh fruits and veggies were plenty in variety. We saw many tables with trays of dates, other dried fruit, nuts, and candies.
Street foods
Content: We had dinner from a street shop located just outside the Bazaar. There are many shops selling snacks and foods. There was an old lady selling samosas, the smell was incredible. We had sausage which was tender and flavored. Then we had an Uzbek dish, Honim. It was stuffed with tomatoes and onions. We tried some dried kiwis. We could see many platters of nuts and fruits. The restaurant place was very aromatic and fresh.
Location: Tashkent
Day 2 - 19 Aug 2017
Hazrat Imam Complex
Content: After breakfast, we started the day started at the Madrasah. The most impressive buildings in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Taking a taxi is the best way to reach the area. We walked down through the streets of the old residential area. Then, stopped by the Hazrat Imam Complex, locally known as Khast Imam. The exterior and domes are very impressive and attractive. Photography was not allowed inside the library.
Chorsu Bazaar
Content: Then we walked to the Chorsu Bazaar, a short walk away. Where we checked some Plov Center. Plov was Uzbekistan’s favorite national food. It was a rice dish which was served with meat. The vegetarian option was also available.
Tashkent’s Metro Stations
Content: Then we took the metro from Chorsu back to Tashkent station. The platforms inside the metro stations themselves seem to be a tourist attraction. We went through the security check once enter the station. A metro tour of Tashkent is an excellent activity in the city. We get on and off at each station to look around. We could see the walls of this metro station lined with mosaics in different patterns. At some stations, we saw mural paintings depicting history. The bright colored ceramic murals and circular chandeliers hanging from the ceiling are very impressive.
Mustakillik Maydoni
Content: We got out from the train at Mustakillik Maydoni, which means Independence Square. The station was beautifully decorated in the style of grandeur. On the way, we saw Ozbekiston, Kosmonavtlar, and Alisher Navoi.
Hotel Uzbekistan
Content: After emerged from the metro, we saw the majestic Hotel Uzbekistan. There was a statue of Amir Temur in front of the hotel. The building was very impressive. There was a little cafe which reminds us of the tuck shop. After checked the buildings around we walked towards the Independence Museum.
Independence Square
Content: We ended the day at Independence Square, the pathway was well furnished with marble. The square was surrounded by government administrative buildings and a garden. Other attractions around the square are the crying mother monument, Romanov palace, etc. There was a 2-floored museum that exhibited Uzbekistan’s entire history. We could see the first floor stuffed with the Stone Age to the 20th-century history while the second floor celebrates its independence. Then we wind up the day with dinner.
The Host- Indian Restaurant
Content: We had dinner at The Host- Indian Restaurant, to experience the real taste of Indian cuisine. They offered a wide variety of Indian dishes on the menu. We ordered Kadai chicken that was very tasty and spicy. The price was reasonable for the quantity they served.
Location: Tashkent
Day 3 - 20 Aug 2017
Tashkent
Content: We checked out of the hotel and headed to the next city of the country. We packed our bags and got ready to step into a wonderful city. We got a train from Tashkent to Samarkand. It is better to purchase train tickets in advance.
Location: Samarkand
Day 3 - 20 Aug 2017
Samarkand
Content: We arrived at Samarkand station, about 2 hours journey. It is one of the oldest cities in the world that is well connected by high-speed trains from Tashkent city. One of the reasons to visit this city was the stunning Islamic architecture.
Hotel Dilimah Premium Luxury
Content: We hired a car from the station to our accommodation. We checked in to Dilimah Premium Luxury Hotel, located in the city centre. It really exceeded all our expectations. Very professional staff welcomed us. We felt very comfortable with clean rooms and amenities. We took some time to get a refresh.
Old City Restaurant
Content: We got enough time to explore a little bit of the city. We headed to a Russian part of the town for lunch. We went to Old City Restaurant, one of the nice places. It was a vegan-friendly place that offered Uzbek, European, and vegetarian cuisine. The dishes were good but not up to our expectations.
Rukhobod Mausoleum
Content: After lunch, we headed to Rukhobod Mausoleum, one of the popular historic landmarks. On the way, we saw the Amir Timur Statue located at the beginning of Registan Street. We explore the place for a while and headed to the next destination on our list.
Gur-E-Amir Complex
Content: We walked for a short distance, where we saw the amazing Gur-E-Amir Mausoleum. It was located just on another side of a little park. It was the most significant place to see. It was a simple building with lots of significances. Both interior and exterior were amazing with impressive architectural style. Basically, it was the tomb of the king, Amir Timur. The awesome tile work at the entrance attracts our eyes. The geometrically shaped decoration contains impressive blue and white colored tiles. The interior was more attractive with geometric panels shine. After sunset, the complex was more brighten with the lights.
Bibikhanum Teahouse
Content: We winded up our first day with an amazing dinner from Bibikhanum Teahouse. It was a lovely location with outdoor seating. It was the perfect place to relax. They serve Uzbek dishes.
Location: Samarkand
Day 4 - 21 Aug 2017
Registan Street
Content: We started our second day from Registan streets. Definitely, it was worth to visit the streets once again to experience the different colors of the place. We took many amazing shots in front of the stunning Islamic architecture. Most of the iconic sites of the city were placed here. Moved from the square once we explored the beauty of the Registan. Walked through Toskhent Street to the next beautiful attraction of the city.
Bibi Khanym Mausoleum
Content: Bibi Khanym Mausoleum another most famous spot in the city. The beauty of the Islamic world was completely reflected here. We took many pictures as the crowd was less. We spend a nice time there chatting with some local friends. The people were very friendly and kind. It was quite relaxing to spend in the garden on the lawn. We visit the museum located just opposite the mosque.
Siob Bazaar
Content: We met with a large bazaar while we strolled towards the right side of the mosque. It was an ideal place to try dried fruits, our favorites were Iranian pistachios or some local dried apricots. Then we grabbed some samosa from a local shop, it was very tasty and crispy. Some vendors called us to taste their pieces of stuff. We bargained for a better price and shopped Uzbek souvenirs. Then we headed towards the next destination, Shah-i-Zinda.
Shah-i-Zinda
Content: We walked for a while, colorful buildings and shiny domes attracted our eyes. The colorful mosaics and blue-tiles gave a magical feel. We really felt the religious customs of them, as it was the most sacred place where many people came to pray. The late evening will be the best time as the building glow in the golden light of the sun. It was great for photography. At the end of the street, we saw the Mausoleum of Qusam ibn Abbas. It was said to be the cousin of Prophet Mohammed. We walked for a while to reach Ulugbek Observatory.
Ulugbek Observatory
Content: Ulugbek Observatory was located along the main road itself. Car was also available to transfer to the top of the hill. It was mind-blowing to see the entire city and mountains from the top of the hill. The exterior walls and pillar was decorated with beautiful tiles.
Restaurant Karimbek
Content: We headed to Restaurant Karimbek to enjoy dinner. We had a perfect dinner. The food was tasty and delicious.
Location: Samarkand
Day 5 - 22 Aug 2017
Registan Street
Content: We used another half day to explore the city. After having toast and coffee, we started our day. We walked out of the hotel to Registan Street to hire a taxi to Skakhrisabz.
Ak-Saray Palace
Content: We walked into the complex which is attractive in white appearance. The first structure that caught our eyes once we entered the old historical town. Formerly it was Amir Timur’s summer palace. The gate was decorated with blue, white, and gold tiles. Then we visited Chorsu Complex, noted for its beautiful architecture. We saw some ladies selling embroidered bags and jackets in front of the gate. Then we walked to the next spot in the town.
Medrese Chubin
Content: We walked through the lawn, where we saw Medrese Chubin. It was set as the Amir Timur Museum. We could saw many artifacts that gave information about the leader. From the museum, we walked towards the next destination. On the way, we saw many restaurants.
Dorut Tilovat Complex
Content: We saw a large blue dome that consists of a Mosque. It is known as Kok Gumbaz Mosque. Both the exterior and interior of the mosque was very impressive. We saw the resting place of Shayx Shamsiddin Kulol, the mentor of Amir Timur inside the building. We met our driver at the parking area. He transferred us to the hotel.
Hotel Dilimah Premium Luxury
Content: Next, we decided to check another city- Bukhara. We checked out from the resort and headed to Bukhara. It was located on the ancient Silk Road route. Taking a train is the best way to reach the city. The resort staff was very polite and kind. We had a memorable stay there.
Location: Bukhara
Day 5 - 22 Aug 2017
Bukhara
Content: Bukhara is a city packed with beautiful madrasah, mosques, and bazaars. The city was known as the holy city in Central Asia. We hired a taxi from the station to the hotel.
Boutique Hotel Minzifa
Content: We checked into Boutique Hotel Minzifa, located at a perfect place. The rooms are nicely decorated with comfortable beds. The rooms are equipped with toiletries, a hairdryer, a fridge, and a TV.
Location: Bukhara
Day 6 - 23 Aug 2017
Lyabi Hauz Square
Content: After a splendid breakfast at the hotel, we headed to the old town. The best way to explore the historical town was on foot. We stopped at Lyabi Hauz Square, a cool hangout place. There was a small pond at the center of the square, where we met a lot of local people. The pond was surrounded by small restaurants and shops. Madrasah of Nadrid Divan-begi was located at one side of the pond. It was a very lively place.
Chor-Minor Madrasah
Content: Then we walked towards the eastern part where we saw beautiful four towers above a building. Actually, it was the gate to a madrasa. We spend some time wandering around to explore the building. The beautiful structure hooked our eyes.
Toki Zardaron
Content: We walked towards the labyrinth of houses around and head for the Toki Zardaron trading dome. It is the largest trading dome in the city. Each dome has its own customs: the first one Toki Sarrafan - "the dome of money". We found many shops selling books and money exchanges. The second dome Toki Telpak-Furushon - "the dome of hats and ornaments" is considered the largest dome of the four domes. Most interesting one we found many beautiful ornaments and items of clothing. The third one was Tim Abdullah Khan, where we could purchase many lovely carpets. The last and largest one Toki Zargaron -the dome of jewelers.
Ark
Content: We stepped straight to reach Ark, another interesting place in the city. It was a massive fort but only a small part was opened for tourism. We saw a museum that illustrates the history of the city. We used some time to examine the history of the city.
Bolo Hauz Mosque
Content: Then we crossed the road and we hit Bolo Hauz Mosque. It was a stunning building that decorated beautifully with wooden ceiling panels and columns. It was a great place to relax for a while. There was an old pool in front of the mosque.
Main Square
Content: We headed towards the most crowded place in the city. We used bylanes to stroll around the streets. There was an imposing Kalyon minaret at the center with two blue-domed medressahs on either side. The evening was the perfect time to spend on the market. We got the opportunity to talk with an old man, from him we learned about the place in detail. By late evening we headed back to the hotel.
Location: Bukhara
Day 7 - 24 Aug 2017
Bukhara
Content: We spend a half day simply wandering around the city on foot. By noon we checked out from the hotel and headed to the train station.
Location: Khiva
Day 7 - 24 Aug 2017
Khiva
Content: We reached another historical city, Khiva. The city was divided into two parts: the inner town and the outer town. The inner town is the walled city of Itchan Kala whereas the outer town is Dishan Kala. The beautiful walls of the Itchan Kala were the distinctive feature of the place.
Orient Star Khiva Hotel
Content: We checked in to the Orient Star Khiva Hotel. They offered a moderate and nice one stay. The staffs were very polite and friendly. The equipped with a bath room, a mini-bar, a telephone, and an air-conditioning system.
Location: Khiva
Day 8 - 25 Aug 2017
Itchan Kala
Content: After breakfast, we headed to explore the city. The old town Itchan Kala is the heart of the city. The entire place looks like a setting in films. We took tickets from the counter located outside the Western gate. We walked around the narrow lanes, the view was mind-blowing. The walls once featured four gates that faced four directions. We saw a tiled map of the fortress that was located near the Mohammad Amin Khan Madrassah. The most string one was Kalta Minaret. It was visible from all angles. We spend more than half a day to admire the beauty of the place. The most attractive part was the visit to observe the living style of people. We saw bazaars selling souvenirs, scarves, beautiful carpets, and beaded ornaments.
Juma Mosque
Content: Then we moved to a peaceful place, Juma Mosque. The wooden work was amazing, with wooden pillars supporting the wooden roof. The main chamber is divided into columns. The mosque has an open floor plan with a mihrab at the center. Natural light flowed through the sky roof and lit up the darkroom. An amazing site for photography.
Tach Khaouli
Content: All the significant sites inside the walled fortress are within walking distance of each other. Tach Khaouli was located in the eastern part of the complex. It consists of 3-parts. The north part was held by Khan's harem, the mid part was occupied by the round stage and the last part was located at the south end where the court office was set.
Kunya Arc
Content: We entered into the Kunya Arc. The blue-tiled walls and wooden pillars attracted our eyes. We climbed to the watchtower to see the entire historical town. It was mind-blowing to see the mud-brick outer wall change its color under the sun. The watchtower has two floors. Each floor offered a different scenic view of the fortress.
Dinner
Content: We had dinner inside the castle. We had Guzlama nad samosa. The place was a little crowded, we waited for half an hour to order our dish. The taste was good.
Location: Khiva
Day 9 - 26 Aug 2017
Orient Star Khiva Hotel
Content: We had a lavish breakfast and spend some time relaxing in the room. We had desi omelet and aloo parotta. The food was delicious and heavy for the day.
Outer wall
Content: After lunch, we walked towards the Dishan-Kala. The outer wall of the city. We simply wandered around the outer margin of Itchan Kala. We passed through the towering gates. Kosh-Darvaza, Gandimyan-Darvaza, and Khazarasp-Darvaza are the remaining gates. Khazarasp-Darvaza was built in the form of two observation towers. We return to the hotel and packed our belongings.
Location: Urgench
Day 10 - 27 Aug 2017
Urgench international airport
Content: After breakfast, we hired a taxi to Urgench international airport. We took a flight to our hometown. The trip was a memorable one, we simply enjoy each and every day. This country was highly recommended for history lovers as well as photographers.