If you want a good introduction to Tajikistan, but don’t have a lot of time, consider this 4-day tour. Start from Samarkand, and cross to Penjikent on the Tajik side. Penjikent is famous for its ancient ruins (all that remains of a city that was resettled in the 8th century by Arab conquerers) and the Rudaki Museum, dedicated to the famous Persian poet who was born here. From Penjikent, head into the Fann Mountains, where you will see the Seven Lakes. Each lake has a unique color and setting, making them ideal for a mountain excursion and picnic. The last stop is Khujand, long an important city for its fortress and bazaar. Explore Khujand to learn about the history and culture of the region, with stops at the Museum of Archaeology and Fortification and the Payshanba Bazaar. Return to Tashkent, Uzbekistan at the end of the tour.
Tour itinerary:
Early morning transfer to Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing at Jartepa (50 km, 1 h) from your hotel in Samarkand. Customs and passport control on both sides, cross the border, meet Tajik local guide and driver and drive to Penjikent via the settlement of Sarazm, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list (20 km).
Sightseeing in Penjikent: Rudaki Museum – Penjikent is a birthplace of Abu Abdallah Rudaki, considered by many to be the father of Persian Poetry. Visit ancient Penjikent - ruins of old Sogdian town, founded in the 5th century and abandoned in the 8th century by Arabs. Foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples and city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Sightseeing in Penjikent: Rudaki Museum – Penjikent is a birthplace of Abu Abdallah Rudaki, considered by many to be the father of Persian Poetry. Visit ancient Penjikent - ruins of old Sogdian town, founded in the 5th century and abandoned in the 8th century by Arabs. Foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples and city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Drive to Seven Lakes (80 km). Visit Haf Kul - seven lakes of different colors in mountains of Tajikistan: 1. Mijgon, 2. Soya, 3. Hushyor, 4. Nophin lakes (2139m a.s.l.), Khurdak, 6.Marguzor, 7.Hazorchashma lakes (2400m a.s.l.). Picnic at the lake. Drive back to Penjikent (80 km). Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning depart Penjikent and drive to Khujand via Istaravshan (260 km, 5-6 h). In Istaravshan visit a local bazaar, 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, one of the ancient settlements located in Istaravshan. The city is believed to be founded by King Cyrus in the North-East boundary of his empire. Arrival in Khujand. Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning, continue sightseeing in Khujand. Visit the Museum of Archeology and Fortification, Shaikh Muslihiddin Mosque, and the Payshanba Bazaar, the biggest bazaar in Tajikistan, Arbob Palace named after S. Urunhodlaev (20th century), “Tajik Sea” Kayrakkum HPS (Hydro Power Station) - the symbol of People’s Friendship, built in 1968.
Transfer to Oybek cross border point (70 km, 1 h). As you cross the border, our driver will meet you on meet on Uzbekistan side. Transfer to the hotel in Tashkent (100 km, 1 h 30 min). End of the tour.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Transfer to Oybek cross border point (70 km, 1 h). As you cross the border, our driver will meet you on meet on Uzbekistan side. Transfer to the hotel in Tashkent (100 km, 1 h 30 min). End of the tour.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
- All transfers 1-2 pax by sedan type car; 3-7 pax by van type car; 8-13 pax by 20 seat bus, 14 pax and more by 40-50 seat bus;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- Sightseeing tour program in each city with local guides;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- English speaking tour leader in Tajikistan.
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Consular fees for Tajikistan tourist visa;
- Visa support letter for Tajikistan tourist visa;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Travel insurance.
Accommodation:
| Penjikent - 2 nights | |
| Panjakent Plaza 3*+, Rudaki | Panjakent Plaza 3*+, Rudaki |
| Khujand - 1 night | |
| Vatan & Khujand Deluxe (mansard room) | Khujand Grand, Khujand Deluxe |
