Samarkand is a city of holy places, none more remarkable than the Hazrat Daud Cave. There are plenty of stories about how this cave came to be, all featuring David from the Bible and the miracles that make this cave sacred. Many pilgrims come to the cave with wishes they want to be granted, and they climb the 1303 steps to the cave and touch David’s handprints and footprints, so their wishes will definitely come true. At just 40 km (25 miles) from Samarkand, Hazrat Daud is a window into the spiritual world of Uzbekistan, and one of the best tours for an experience totally unique to Uzbekistan.
Tour itinerary:
At 09.00 your guide will meet you at your hotel in Samarkand. Then you will depart from Samarkand to Aksay village (40 km, 1 hr). Arrive at the foot of the mountain (980m above sea level) with two roads leading to the top: 1303 steps or a horse road. Walking up the stairs takes more time, thus it is better to choose the latter and get to the top on horses or donkeys. After riding a horse for half an hour, you will be at the mosque and viewing platform (at the height of 1280m) where you will have an excellent panoramic view of the Samarkand valley.
After seeing the mosque and enjoying wonderful views, you will go down (200 steps) to Hazrat Daud Cave. There you will enjoy view of the cave, walk along the tunnel until you reach the fingerprints of palms and feet of Hazrat Daud. Then, return to the mosque and go down the stairs (1300 steps) to Aksay village. The tour will finish by returning to Samarkand.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Price includes:
- English speaking guide;
- Transport throughout the tour (1-2 pax – sedan; 3-6 pax – van);
- Horse or donkey to climb the mountain.
Price does not include:
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Lunch.
