If you thought that Uzbekistan had a monopoly on monumental buildings, think again. Turkestan has a long history on the Silk Road, but it’s especially known as the home of Khoja Ahmad Yasawi, a Sufi poet and preacher. He spread Islam throughout the region that today is Kazakhstan, turning Turkestan into a center of learning and spirituality renowned throughout Central Asia. The mausoleum built over his grave was only constructed 200 years after his death by Timur, and it’s a distinctive building that’s remarkably well-preserved and still drawing pilgrims to this day. Today, his mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the most elegant of the several old buildings around Turkestan. It’s well worth a trip across the border to Kazakhstan to visit Turkestan - this 2-day tour is something new with a familiar flavor.
Tour itinerary:
At 7 am drive to Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan border crossing point “Zhibek Zholy / Gysht Kuprik (Chernyaevka)” (30 km, 40 m.). Upon arrival at the customs and passport control on both sides, kindly proceed to the exit of the border control area. At that point, our guide/driver will be waiting for you with the sign with your name. Meet your driver and guide on the Kazakh side. Drive to Shaulder village (240 km, 3 hours). Explore Otrar (10 - 12th сenturies) (14 km) was one of the main points of the Great Silk Road, and today it is only grandiose ruins that keep a lot of historical facts and mysteries. Visit archeological excavations: a medieval bath, a mosque, residential area, a fortification. After, visit to the mausoleum of the legendary great figure, spiritual teacher Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Arystan baba. Transfer to Turkestan (100 km, 1,5h). Check-in at the hotel. Excursion to the largest tourist complex in Central Asia - "Karavansaray". From the moment you plunge into the enchanting atmosphere of the complex "Karavansaray", you will find yourself in a fascinating fairy tale that glorifies the great history, culture and eternal romance of Kazakhstan! Participants of the tour will visit the onlynon-8D cinema in Kazakhstan "Altyn Samruk" (Golden Phoenix), the "flying theater" will go on a journey through time and space with the mythical bird Samruk (Phoenix bird) to the origins of Kazakh culture. The effect of immersion in 8D The format will take you on a fantastic flight over the sights of Kazakhstan! Those who wish can ride gondolas. The tour ends with a magical parade of boats "Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen" (story of lovers) on the harbor of the complex. Transfer to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8-9 hours
After breakfast, continue excursion to Khoja Ahmed Yasawi mausoleum complex. In Ahmed Yasawi mausoleum complex you will visit gallery of stone statues, archeological museum, historical-cultural reserve-museum Hazrat Sultan, Darvaza (gates) of 18 – 19th centuries, Esim Кhan mausoleum (16th century), Rabiga Sultan Begim mausoleum (end of the 15th century), Akhmed Yassawi khanaka-mausoleum (12 – 14th centuries), “Zhuma” mosque (1878), underground mosque Khilovat (12 – 15th centuries), oriental baths (16 – 18th centuries), Big khilvet (12th century), Chillyakhana (14th century), archeological site of ancient settlement Kultobe (14th century), Khilvet Aulie-Kumchik-ata (12th century). After lunch, drive to Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan border crossing point “Zhibek Zholy / Gysht Kuprik (Chernyaevka)” (285 km, 4 hrs). Go through border formalities at both checkpoints. The driver will meet you at the border on Uzbekistan side and transfer to your hotel. End of the 2-day Tour From Tashkent to Turkestan.
Price includes:
- All transfers: 1-2 pax by sedan type car; 3-7 pax by minivan;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- Sightseeing with a local English speaking guide;
- Entrance tickets to the museums, mausoleums and other sights;
- Mineral water 1l per person per day.
Price doesn't include:
- Charges in hotels for additional services;
- Kazakhstan visa support service;
- Camera fees, charged separately by museums;
- Travel insurance;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Full board.
Prices, per person
Prices are for 2025 in US$ per person, with discounted prices for larger groups available on request.
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From Tashkent to Turkestan Reviews
Author: Chris | Rating: 512 May 2025
The trip generally went well. Both mausoleums were outstanding. Both Uzbek drivers were good and Daulet, our guide in Kazakhstan, was excellent.
Visited May 2025
Visited May 2025
