Tajikistan and Uzbekistan share a lot of history, though they also have much that differs. This three-day trip will take you from Uzbekistan to some of the most interesting ancient sites in Tajikistan. After departing from Tashkent, spend a day in Khujand, which has been a famous historical point since the times of Alexander the Great. The museums in Khujand are interesting and informative, and are excellent ways to immerse yourself in the history of the region. Take a little time for modern Khujand with a stop at the Panjshanbe Bazaar. Next, head to Penjikent, well known as the birthplace of Rudaki (a famous Persian poet) and the home of ruins, all that remains of an ancient city. Finish up your tour in Samarkand.
Tour itinerary:
Early morning transfer to Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border crossing at Oybek (100 km, 1 h 30 min) from your hotel in Tashkent. Go through border formalities on both checkpoints. Meet Tajik local guide and driver and drive to Khujand (70 km, 1 h). Sightseeing in Khujand: Republican Historical-Ethnographic Museum, Timur-Malik Fortress, Archeological Museum, Mosque and Madrasah of Sheikh Muslehiddin, Panjshanbe Bazaar. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3 hours
Drive to Penjikent (260 km, 5-6 h). Arrival and check in to the guest house. Meet your guide for sightseeing program: Rudaki Museum, dedicated to the poet considered as the father of Persian Poetry; 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.
Early morning transfer to Tajikistan-Uzbekistan border crossing at Jartepa (20 km, 20 min). Customs and passport control on both sides, cross the border, meet Uzbek driver and drive to Samarkand (50 km, 1 h). Arrival to the hotel in Samarkand. End of the tour.
- 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;
- Visa support for Tajikistan tourist visa.
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Consular fees for Tajikistan tourist visa;
- Travel insurance.
Accommodation:
| Khujand - 1 night |
| Khujand Grand, Khujand Deluxe |
| Penjikent - 1 night |
| Sugd or Umariyon |
