For those looking for ancient and medieval history, look no further than the two-day Khujand and Istaravshan Tour to Tajikistan. Start with Khujand, a crucial point in Alexander the Great’s empire, and later a bustling metropolis on the Silk Road. Istaravshan is a little different - though it was part of much of the same historical events as Khujand, it still remained smaller than its neighbor. Travel from Tashkent to Khujand on this best tour of the region, and explore the museums that hold the city’s history and the Panjshanbe Bazaar, an important trading center for those from far and wide. The second day is taken up with Istaravshan, with visits to mosques, mausoleums and archaeological sites. For a two-day excursion through Tajikistan, the Khujand and Istaravshan Tour is one of the best tours to take.
Tour itinerary:
Early morning you will be driven to Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border Oybek (100 km, 1 h. 30 min.). After completing customs and passport control on both sides, Tajik local guide and driver will meet you on the Tajik side and take to Khujand (70 km, 1 h.).
In Khujand you will explore the Sughd Historical Museum, Timur-Malik Fortress, Mosque and Madrasah of Shaikh Muslihiddin, Payshanba Bazaar. You will try delicious Tajik cuisine at the local restaurant. After you will have some free time at your disposal. Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning you will be taken to Istaravshan (80 km, 1,5-2 hours). You will visit Hazrat Shah architectural complex, which consists of Hazrat Shah Mausoleum, the grave of brother of Kusam ibn Abbas, Khudayar Valami Mausoleum, and Namazgah Mosque dating back to the 19th century. Continue to Mug Teppe, an ancient city believed to be founded by King Cyrus. After sightseeing tour you will be back to Khudjand, where you will have lunch. Late afternoon you will head back to Tashkent. After passing the same border Oybek, the driver will meet you on Uzbekistan side and transfer to your place in Tashkent.
- All transfers:
Uzbekistan part - 1-3 pax by sedan type car; 4-8 pax by van type car; 9-14 pax by 20 seat bus;
Tajikistan part - 1-2 pax by sedan type car; 3-7 pax by van type car; 8-13 pax by 20 seat bus; - Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- Sightseeing tour in Khujand and Istaravshan with local guide;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Full board in Tajikistan.
- Tour leader to accompany travellers for the whole period of the tour;
- Consular fees for Tajikistan tourist visa;
- Visa support letter for Tajikistan tourist visa;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Travel insurance.
Accommodation:
| Khujand - 1 night |
| Khujand Deluxe (mansard room) |
