The Paganels' journey to Uzbekistan
Legends of the Great Silk Road:
From Tamerlane to the present day
11 DAYS
24 PEOPLE
2350 EURO
11 days
24.09 - 04.10.2026
✅ there are places
Visit a sunny country, where you are welcome in every home and served a rich dastarkhan, immerse yourself in the ancient history of Khorezm and Sogdiana, check whether Tamerlane has chalk in his right hand, and bring home a recipe for real Uzbek pilaf.
The history of the creation of modern Uzbekistan goes far back to ancient times, when the states of Khorezm or Sogdiana appeared in the 8th century BC. On the territory of Uzbekistan there are many cities whose age is estimated at thousands of years - Samarkand 2750 years, Bukhara 2500 years, Khiva 2500 years, Tashkent 2000 years. And the Great Silk Road, formed after the conquest by Alexander the Great in the 2nd century BC, passed through this country, connecting the East with the West.
We will travel through the country from Tashkent to Khiva the same way that caravans loaded with carpets, silk, rice, and spices have walked for many hundreds of years. Roads traveled by camels, horses, donkeys, mules and millions of people. Sultans and kings, merchants and pilgrims, slaves and robbers walked along the Great Silk Road.
Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan left their mark here. The most significant Sufi order, Naqshbandi, was founded here. The dynasties of the Samanids, Sheibanids, and Timurids ruled here, the most significant representative of which was Amir Tamerlane.
Such names as Avicena, Mirzo Ulugbek, Alisher Navoi, Omar Khayyam, Bobur are known to everyone, but not everyone knows that all these great ones are connected with Uzbekistan. Even the merry and cunning Khoja Nasreddin is the pride of this sunny land.
ROUTE
all inclusive!
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Accommodation in 3* - 4* hotels, with a good breakfast, good service and in central areas. Transfer from the airport in Tashkent and to the airport in Urgench;
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train travel and bus rental for the entire route across cities;
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transport from Tashkent to the mountains and back. Three meals a day (except the first day) for all days of travel (alcohol not included) in the best places with the most delicious dishes of Uzbek cuisine;
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master class on cooking pilaf;
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a trip to Lake Aydarkul, with a folklore performance by an akyn around the fire and a night in yurts. Services of the best professional certified guides in all cities;
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entrance tickets to all attractions along the entire route;
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accompaniment of the expedition leader Paganel Studio.
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flights from your city and back,
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alcohol costs,
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personal expenses,
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tips for guides and drivers,
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visa costs (if necessary),
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supplement for single occupancy.
IMPORTANT!
Due to the fact that our expeditions do not include international flights to the starting point of the program, we cannot be held responsible for changes in flight conditions by airlines or airport requirements. Since our travelers fly from many different countries and cities, we never participate in the purchase of air travel and limit ourselves exclusively to advisory services in the selection of flights. Air agents or airlines from which tickets were purchased are responsible for the purchase and technical support.
ITINERARY
Day 1
24.09
Flight from your city to the city of Tashkent - the capital of Uzbekistan.
The expedition leader Paganel Studio will meet you at the airport. By transfer we will go to our first hotel in the central part of the city. Hotel accommodation. Rest. (Check-in to the hotel from 15:00)
Tashkent is an ancient city with a centuries-old history, but its image changed significantly after the devastating earthquake of 1966. Despite this, the city rose from the ruins and turned into a bright, modern metropolis that has preserved its unique culture and traditions.
Today, Tashkent is a combination of historical monuments, architectural diversity and modern innovations. Here you can find majestic mosques, madrassas and oriental bazaars, which neighbor with green parks, modern museums and lively streets.
Included: overnight stay at the Hotel Moderno.
Day 2
25.09
Welcome to Tashkent - the city warmly called “the city of bread”! This hospitable metropolis will welcome us with true Uzbek hospitality, and from the very first steps you will feel the warmth and friendliness of the locals.
The first place where we will go after breakfast is the Hast-Imam ensemble. This cult center is a real pearl of Tashkent. Here we will find the Barak Khan madrasah, the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Muhamad Kaffal Shashi, the Mui-Muborak madrasah and other unique buildings. Particular attention should be paid to the manuscript of the Koran of Uthman - one of the oldest in the world.
Next we will head to the Kukeldash madrasah, built in the 16th century. This historical monument amazes with its grandeur and architectural beauty. While walking through its courtyard, it is easy to imagine how the life of students and scientists was bustling here.
Of course, you cannot miss the Chorsu market. This is not just a market, but a real colorful celebration of tastes and aromas! Under the huge dome, you can find the freshest fruits and vegetables, fragrant spices and a variety of dried fruits. Be sure to try fresh Samarkand bread and enjoy chatting with friendly merchants.
After a rich walk through the old city we will go to its modern part. Independence Square is the heart of the new Tashkent. It is a beautiful place with fountains and green alleys where important city events take place. Here we will see the symbol of modern architecture of Uzbekistan and feel the spirit of independence of the country.
We will not forget about the Memorial to the Earthquake Victims. This monument recalls the tragic event of 1966, when a powerful earthquake almost destroyed the city. The restoration of Tashkent has become a symbol of courage and unity of people. Our day will end with a visit to the Minor Mosque, we will stop by the Tashkent Television Tower and end our day with a walk in Tashkent City Park. In the evening, the city lights create a romantic atmosphere and you can enjoy a wonderful end to the first day of our trip.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Moderno Hotel.
Day 3
26.09
Travel to the Chimgan Mountains and Lake Charvak.
Today we will go to meet nature and enjoy the fresh air of the Chimgan Mountains. Residents of Tashkent and guests of the capital for their picturesque landscapes and the opportunity to relax from the bustle of the city adore these places. Get ready for an amazing experience!
After breakfast, our trip will begin with a transfer to the Chimgan Mountains, the journey to which will take about two hours. Along the way we will pass beautiful villages and see how civilization gradually gives way to wild nature. Arriving at the Chimgan tract, we will take a walk through the mountainous area. If we are lucky and the cable car in the Beldersay gorge is working, we will have the opportunity to climb to the top of Mount Kumbel (2400 m). There is a stunning view from there and the longest ski slope in Uzbekistan is located there.
Next, a trip to the shore of the artificial reservoir Charvak, surrounded by green mountain slopes. A chain of mountain ranges frames the lake, whose coastline is 100 kilometers long, like a blue gem.
A special adventure awaits us in the “Gulkama Gorges”. This place, located at the foot of the Big Chimgan, is known for its impressive steep cliffs. The road there runs through winding serpentines, offering breathtaking views of Charvak and the mountains. We will go to the gorge and immerse ourselves in the amazing world of narrow canyons and cascading waterfalls. Here, sunlight touches the ground only at midday, creating a special atmosphere. A walk through the Gulkama Gorges is a great opportunity to feel like real explorers.
(There will be numerous river crossings along the way, where you will have to get your feet wet, so it is advisable to have replacement shoes).
After an active holiday, we will have lunch at the cozy restaurant "Chinars" in Khodzhikent. We will taste delicious local cuisine under the shade of ancient plane trees, enjoying the view of the mountains and the reservoir.
After lunch we will head back to Tashkent, where we will have dinner at one of the best restaurants in the city. Here you can enjoy delicious dishes and spend a pleasant evening in a cozy atmosphere.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Moderno Hotel.
Day 4
27.09
We leave Tashkent and dive into the antiquity of Samarkand.
Today we are waiting for an unforgettable journey to one of the most ancient and mysterious cities in the world - Samarkand. We will start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel to gain strength for a busy day.
After breakfast we will take the morning high speed train to Samarkand. The journey will take about two and a half hours, and we will enjoy the views outside the window. Upon arrival, a comfortable air-conditioned bus awaits us, on which we will set off on this journey together with a local accompanying guide.
The first point on our route is the Gur-Emir mausoleum. This magnificent structure with a blue dome is the burial place of the Timurid dynasty. Legend says that if the sky falls to the ground, the dome of the Gur Emir will replace it. This architectural monument fascinates with its beauty and grandeur, being a symbol of the power and greatness of Tamerlane’s empire.
After the excursion, we will have lunch at one of the best restaurants in Samarkand, where we can taste local cuisine and relax before continuing. After lunch we will check into a cozy hotel to leave our things and take a little rest.
The next point on our program is the famous Registan Square. This is the heart of Samarkand and one of the most beautiful squares in the world. We will visit three magnificent madrassas: Ulugbek, Sher-Dor and Tilla-Kari, each of which impresses with its unique architectural solutions and rich decor. Here you can see the creative genius of the architects, masons and decorative artists who created these masterpieces.
Those who wish will be able to wear local dresses and take a photo session near the walls of the Madrasah.
Then we will go for a walk along Tashkent Street and head to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. This monumental mosque was built in honor of Timur's beloved wife and is one of the largest buildings of its time.
Finally, we will visit the Siab Bazaar, one of the oldest and most colorful markets in Samarkand. The atmosphere of a real oriental bazaar reigns here with its bright colors, aromas of spices and an abundance of goods. This is a great place to buy souvenirs and experience the local culture
Our day will end with dinner at a local restaurant, where we can enjoy Uzbek cuisine and sum up this busy day.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Kosh Havuz hotel.
Day 5
28.09
Journey into the world of architecture and crafts of Samarkand
Today we have another exciting day in Samarkand, filled with new discoveries and cultural impressions. After breakfast, we will go to explore ancient monuments and plunge into the world of Samarkand crafts.
The first place we will visit is the Hazrati Khizr Mosque. This ancient mosque is located on a hill offering stunning views of the city. It is believed that the memory of Saint Khizr is kept here, who helped travelers and blessed them for new achievements.
The next point of our excursion will be the Shahi-Zinda ensemble. This complex, consisting of more than 20 unique mausoleums, is one of the best architectural ensembles in Central Asia. Here we will see the mausoleum of Kusama ibn Abbas, the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, who was one of the first preachers of Islam in this region. The ensemble, formed over several centuries, impresses with its bright mosaics and exquisite decorations.
After a busy excursion, we will have lunch and a master class on cooking pilaf in the handicraft village of Konigil. This is not just lunch, but also a real immersion in the culture and traditions of Samarkand. We will not only try the most authentic Uzbek pilaf, but also learn all the secrets of its preparation. We will also have the opportunity to visit the local paper mill “Meros”, where the ancient technologies for making Samarkand paper were revived by the Mukhtarov brothers. We will see the entire paper production process and will be able to purchase unique souvenirs.
After lunch we will continue our journey with a visit to the Ulugbek Observatory. This is one of the most significant observatories of the Middle Ages, built in 1424-1428. Here we will learn about the scientific achievements of Ulugbek and his contribution to astronomy.
Then we will go to the Khoja Danier Mausoleum, a place that is revered by both Muslims and Christians. It is believed that the ashes of St. Daniel rest here, which gives this place special holiness and significance.
We will end the day with a visit to the Khudzhum carpet factory. Here we will see how beautiful oriental carpets are created, learn about the intricacies of their manufacture and be able to enjoy the beauty and grace of these works of art.
The evening will end with dinner at the Platan Terrace restaurant, where we can enjoy delicious dishes and share our impressions of a busy day.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Kosh Havuz hotel.
Day 6
29.09
From Samarkand to Nurata. Adventures in the Kyzylkum desert.
Today we will have an unforgettable journey deep into the Kyzylkum desert, whose name translates as “Red Sand”, where we will discover the amazing Aydarkul Lake, explore the ancient city of Nurata and spend the night in a real yurt camp.
We will start the day with a delicious breakfast at our hotel to prepare for a busy program.
Next, we take a bus to Lake Aydarkul. This crystal-clear lake, located on the southeastern edge of the desert, amazes with its extraordinary beauty and rich nature. It arose because of an unusual natural phenomenon, when excess drainage water from the Jizzakh steppe and floods on the Syrdarya River filled the Arnasay depression. Today the lake extends over 3000 square km, and its banks are an ideal place for hiking and camel riding.
After a walk and getting to know the nature of the lake, we will have lunch on the shore. We will enjoy local cuisine, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Next, we will go to the city of Nurata, a small town with a rich history, lost in the foothills of the Nurata Mountains. Here we will visit the ruins of the Nur fortress, built by Alexander the Great. Despite the modest size of the city, its history dates back thousands of years. We will also visit the sacred mineral spring Chashma, which according to legend appeared thanks to a blow from the staff of Hazrat Ali. Nurata is famous for its unique holy places and oriental bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of local culture.
After the excursion we will go to a yurt camp (the journey will take about 5 hours), located in the Kyzylkum desert. This is an amazing place where you can see a variety of flora and fauna during the day. We will have the opportunity to ride camels and feel like real nomads.
In the evening we will have a traditional dinner by the fire in the yurt camp. In a cozy atmosphere we will enjoy national dishes cooked over an open fire. The end of the day will be a folklore performance by an akyn - a local singer and storyteller who will share with us the legends and stories of this region.
After a busy day, we will spend the night in real yurts. A yurt can accommodate from two to four people. There are toilets and showers in a specially designated building. At night we enjoy the peace and stars in the endless desert sky. This day promises to be one of the brightest and most memorable moments of our trip.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight in a yurt camp.
Day 7
30.09
Travel from Nurata to Bukhara via Gijduvan.
After a morning breakfast in the open air at our camp, we will embark on an exciting journey to Gijduvan. The journey will take about three hours and this small town is world famous for its unique pottery traditions. We will be welcomed by our longtime friends, the famous local potters, where we will discover the secrets of this ancient art.
Here, the skill of potters was passed on from generation to generation, and today Gijduvan is home to the sixth generation of the Narzullaev family, whose works are known throughout the world. We will visit their national house, where we will have lunch and a unique opportunity to touch the art of creating Gijduvan ceramics.
After a busy program in Gijduvan, we will continue our journey to Bukhara. This journey will take about 2 hours, but time flies, because there is still a lot of interesting things ahead of us.
Arrival in Bukhara marks a new stage of our journey. This ancient city, once one of the main centers of the Great Silk Road, is famous for its unique architectural monuments and rich history. We will stay in a cozy hotel where we can relax after the trip.
In the evening we will have dinner at the Old Bukhara restaurant, where we can enjoy local cuisine.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Latifa Begim hotel.
Day 8
01.10
Day of exploring Bukhara
After a sound sleep and delicious breakfast a very rich program awaits us. Bukhara is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan. Every street of Bukhara conceals an ancient history, and the atmosphere of the ancient city surrounded by majestic minarets and mosques is amazing. Bukhara is an ancient city, the analogs of which can hardly be found anywhere else.
A walk through the trading domes of Bukhara is a unique opportunity to plunge into the atmosphere of an oriental bazaar. Here, under the arches of Toki Saraffon, Toki Telpak Furushon and Toki Zargaron, artisans offer their products: jewelry, miniatures and other works of art. These shopping arcades are a living legacy of the centuries-old tradition of trade in Central Asia.
Lunch at the Joy Restaurant, a former caravan barn, formerly a caravan inn on the trade route. We invite you to try the best Bukhara shashlik.
Обід у ресторані Joy, колишньому караван-сараї, раніше заїжджий двір для караванів на торговому шляху. Пропонуємо скуштувати найкращий бухарський шашлик.
Plov is not just a food in Uzbekistan, it is a true symbol of culture and hospitality. Every meal with pilov turns into a special event that brings family and friends together at one table. It is important to note that there are many varieties of this dish, and each region of Uzbekistan proudly claims that it is their pilaf that is the most delicious and correct.
For example, in Samarkand, pilaf is prepared in a layered way, where meat, rice and carrots are laid out on top of each other, soaking in each other's flavors. In Fergana, the process is more complicated, and here pilaf has a rich flavor due to the special ratio of fat, meat and carrots. And Tashkent is famous for its “trade” pilaf, which is cooked with large pieces of meat and often includes chickpeas.
In Bukhara pilaf is sweeter because of the addition of raisins and barberries, which gives it a unique sour-sweet note. And, of course, we should not forget about Kashkadarya pilaf, which is characterized by its soft texture and lightness.
We will be able to taste different versions of pilaf in different parts of Uzbekistan, feel the unique flavor nuances and understand that even within one country this dish can be completely different. By the end of the trip, we will have not only a gastronomic experience, but also the opportunity to feel like real experts. And although each region is proud of its recipe, only we will have to decide which pilaf will be our favorite.
After lunch, we will continue the excursion and visit the Samanid mausoleum - a wonderful example of architecture of the late 9th - early 10th centuries and the family tomb of the Samanid dynasty. Next, we will go to the Chashma Ayub mausoleum, where, according to legend, there is a source of healing water associated with the prophet Job (Ayub). We will visit the ancient house of Bukharian Jews, where we will see interesting interiors and household items.
The evening will end with dinner at Andara Restaurant.
After dinner, we recommend taking a walk around the city in the evening and feeling its soul. Omar Khayyam lived and worked here. Avicena worked and created here. In the 12th century, Bukhara became the center of Sufism. Every corner here carries a story. More likely, by this point you will say that two days are not enough for Bukhara, and we agree with you. This means there will be a reason to return.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Latifa Begim hotel.
Day 9
02.10
Transfer to Khiva and evening walk
Breakfast at the hotel will begin our day, after which we will set off through the majestic Kyzylkum Desert, enjoying the views and panorama of the Amu Darya River. The Kyzylkum Desert amazes with its harsh beauty and endless sandy expanses.
Halfway through the journey we will have lunch at the Zahratun Cafe, a cozy place in the heart of the desert.
After lunch we will continue our journey and by mid-afternoon we will arrive in Khiva, an ancient city that will greet us with its unique atmosphere and architectural treasures. In Khiva we will stay at the cozy Zarafshan Boutique hotel, where we can relax before an evening walk.
Khiva is like an open-air museum, where every corner is imbued with history and legends. The main attraction is the Ichan-Kala fortress, where amazing minarets, madrassas and palaces, decorated with elegant mosaics and carved patterns are concentrated. This architectural ensemble, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, creates a feeling of immersion in a real oriental fairy tale.
We will end the evening with dinner at the Mirzaboshi restaurant, where traditional Uzbek cuisine awaits us. A pleasant atmosphere and delicious food will be a great end to the day.
Included: breakfast, lunch and dinner, overnight at the Zarafshan Boutique Hotel.
Day 10
03.10
Full immersion in historical Khiva
We will have breakfast at the hotel, after which we will go on a fascinating excursion around one of the unique cities of Uzbekistan - Khiva. The city, whose history goes back many centuries, amazes with its architectural masterpieces and special atmosphere, as if transferred from ancient times.
The acquaintance will begin with a tour of the historical center of the city - Ichan-Kala. This is the ancient part of Khiva, it is surrounded by massive fortress walls that used to protect the city from attacks. These walls, made of adobe material, preserve traces of time and history, framing the city as if in the frame of an ancient legend. Inside the fortress, two main streets intersect, leading from one city gate to another, creating a clear grid of streets and alleys.
During a walk around the city, we will visit the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, built in the 19th century, which is the largest madrasah in Khiva. We will go to Kalta Minor, a minaret that was planned to be the tallest in Central Asia, but it remained unfinished, maintaining its unusual and recognizable appearance.
A must-see is the Juma Mosque, a unique structure whose roof is supported by 212 carved wooden columns, which creates a feeling of spaciousness and coolness even on the hottest day. The minaret of the mosque, 32.5 meters high, is also an important architectural monument.
Lunch will take place within the walls of the old city, where we will taste dishes of Khorezmian cuisine.
In the afternoon we will continue visiting important sights of Khiva, such as the Muhammad Rahim Khan Madrasah, one of the largest madrasahs in Khiva, built in the 19th century. Kunya-Ark Citadel, which is the historical residence of the rulers of Khiva, in which you can see elements of the palace interior and ancient defensive structures. Mausoleum of Pakhlavon Mahmud, an important spiritual center of Khiva, dedicated to the famous poet and saint.
The Minaret and Mosque of Khoja Islam, built at the beginning of the 20th century and they are an example of the late architecture of Khiva.
We will spend the evening at the Allukulikhan restaurant, enjoying dinner and sharing our impressions of the busy day. Khiva leaves an unforgettable impression with its unique combination of antiquity and a lively atmosphere that has survived to this day.
Day 11
04.10
Our journey ends.
Breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight and flight home.
Extension of rooms, at your request, for an additional fee. Transfer to the airport is organized for everyone.
When it is time to say goodbye to Uzbekistan, it is not just the end of the trip, but the moment when we realize that we are leaving, having left a piece of our heart here. This amazing land with its warm people, ancient traditions and unique flavors will stay with us forever. We fell in love with its majestic cities, fragrant pilaf, colorful bazaars and sincere hospitality.
With this farewell comes a promise: we are leaving, but we will definitely return. After all, places like Uzbekistan become not just a point on the map, but a part of our soul, to which we want to return again and again.
WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
Please note that this itinerary is tentative. The weather always has the last word. The itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time at the end of the Expedition in case of any weather-related delays. If necessary, the captain can change the expedition route depending on external conditions!
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