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Samarkand Highlights: Culture & History Tour
Samarkand
These one-day tours will introduce you to the most popular attractions in Samarkand. Participants will explore the culture, traditions, cuisine, and urban development of the era. The journey will cover history from the Middle Ages to the period before the country’s independence.
These one-day tours will introduce you to the most popular attractions in Samarkand. Participants will explore the culture, traditions, cuisine, and urban development of the era. The journey will cover history from the Middle Ages to the period before the country’s independence.
Duration:
7 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Gur Emir Mausoleum - This is the resting place of Amir Timur and his cherished grandchildren, Muhammad Sultan, Ulugbek, along with other family members. Discover the architectural marvels of this site, the life and legacy of Timur, and the exquisite interior of the tomb. The “starry sky” will surely captivate you!
- Registan - Registan Square…
- Gur Emir Mausoleum - This is the resting place of Amir Timur and his cherished grandchildren, Muhammad Sultan, Ulugbek, along with other family members. Discover the architectural marvels of this site, the life and legacy of Timur, and the exquisite interior of the tomb. The “starry sky” will surely captivate you!
- Registan - Registan Square is the iconic symbol of Samarkand. During the 15th-17th centuries, it served as the city’s educational and spiritual hub. This vast square in the heart of old Samarkand is home to three grand medieval universities (madrassas): the Ulugbek Madrassah (left), the Tillya-Kari Madrassah (center), and the Sher-Dor Madrassah (right). In Uzbek, “reg” means sand, and “stan” means place. Registan in Samarkand is a unique example of urban planning and a stunning architectural design of the city’s main square. The madrassas were constructed at different times. Imagine the era when these buildings functioned as religious schools and scientific centers, “read” the stories on the facades, and simply admire the beauty of the complex.
- Bibi Khanym Mosque - Also known as the Friday Mosque of Samarkand, the Bibikhanum Mosque was a place where thousands of Muslim men gathered. Built between 1399-1404 by the order of Amir Timur after his return from the Indian campaign, construction began in May 1399. Timur personally selected the site for the mosque. Craftsmen from India, Iran, Khorezm, and the Golden Horde contributed to its construction. By September 1404, the main part of the complex was completed. The mosque’s courtyard could accommodate 10,000 worshippers at once.
- Siab Bazaar - Siab Bazaar is the largest and oldest market in Samarkand, and one of the largest and oldest in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. Experience the vibrant trading culture of Central Asia, which will undoubtedly amaze you with its uniqueness.
- Hazrat Khizr Mosque - Reconstructed in the 19th century, the Hazrat Khizr Mosque replaced the one destroyed in the 13th century. The original mosque on this site dates back to the 8th century and was built on the site of a Zoroastrian temple. This historical complex is a remarkable example of the blend of Central Asian cultures.
- Shah-i-Zinda - The Shahi-Zinda memorial complex is one of Samarkand’s enigmatic architectural wonders. It is believed to house the grave of Kusam ibn Abbas, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Relatives of Amir Timur and other noble figures of the Timurid Empire are also interred here. Be amazed by the series of elegant, sparkling blue tombs where royalty and nobility rest.
- Ulugh Beg Observatory - The dream of Ulugbek, Amir Temur’s grandson, was to establish an observatory. Ulugbek was not only a ruler but also a prominent leader of his time. By 1428-1429, the construction of Ulugbek’s observatory was completed under his personal supervision. Talented astronomers like Kazi-Zade Rumi, Giyasaddin Jamshid, and Ulugbek’s adept student Ali Kushchi were part of the team. Gain insight into the Renaissance period of that era.

What's Included
- Private transportation
- A guide service
- Private transportation
- A guide service
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Entrance fee
- Lunch
- Entrance fee
Location
Gur Emir Mausoleum
Oksaroi St. 1,
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.