Samarkand and Shakhrisabz, pivotal cities during the reign of Timur’s (Tamerlane’s) empire, hold significant historical value. Samarkand served as the empire’s capital while Shakhrisabz was the birthplace and preferred summer retreat of Timur. This brief yet captivating journey offers a chance to explore Timur’s two cherished cities.
Samarkand and Shakhrisabz, pivotal cities during the reign of Timur’s (Tamerlane’s) empire, hold significant historical value. Samarkand served as the empire’s capital while Shakhrisabz was the birthplace and preferred summer retreat of Timur. This brief yet captivating journey offers a chance to explore Timur’s two cherished cities.
Tashkent – Samarkand
Samarqand Province - Tashkent to Samarkand
Transfer from hotel “XXXX” in Tashkent to the railway station at 07:45. Depart for Samarkand on the “Afrosiyob” train at 08:30, or take an ordinary train, car, or minibus if preferred. Samarkand, the second-largest city in Uzbekistan, shares its age with Rome, Athens, and Babylon,…
Tashkent – Samarkand
Samarqand Province - Tashkent to Samarkand
Transfer from hotel “XXXX” in Tashkent to the railway station at 07:45. Depart for Samarkand on the “Afrosiyob” train at 08:30, or take an ordinary train, car, or minibus if preferred. Samarkand, the second-largest city in Uzbekistan, shares its age with Rome, Athens, and Babylon, boasting a history of over 2,700 years. Europeans have dubbed it “The Land of Scientists.” This majestic and beautiful city is steeped in legend. Upon first seeing Samarkand, Alexander the Great remarked, “All that I heard about the beauty of Samarkand is true, but Samarkand is more beautiful than I imagined.”
Arrival in Samarkand is at 10:00 or 12:00.
Gur Emir Mausoleum - The Gur-Emir Mausoleum is the resting place of the Great Amir Temur and his dynasty (14th-15th century).
Registan - Registan Square is the main square of Samarkand, featuring the Madrassah Ulugbek (15th century).
Bibikhonim Street - The Bibi Khanum Mosque is named in honor of the eldest wife of the Great Timur (14th century).
Shah-i-Zinda - The Shahi-Zinda necropolis offers a chance to taste the finest breads and fruits of Samarkand.
Samarqand-Shakhrisabz
Shahrisabz - Depart at 08:00 for Shakhrisabz, a 1.5-hour drive. Travel through the “Takhtakaracha” pass (1,670 m).
Enjoy the scenic views of the Shakhrisabz mountains along the way. This remarkable city is known as the birthplace of Amir Temur (Tamerlane), who was born in the nearby village of Hodja-Ilgar. As ruler, he transformed Shakhrisabz into his summer residence. At that time, Kesh was renamed Shakhrisabz, meaning “Green City.”
The Palace Complex of Ak-Saray - The Ak-Saray Palace served as the summer residence of the Great Timur (14th-15th century).
Shahrisabz - The Mausoleum of Jakhongir and Omar-Shaykh honors the eldest and dearest sons of the Great Timur (14th century). The Mausoleum of Dorut-Tilovat is where conqueror Tamerlane’s father and spiritual tutor are interred.
Amir Timur’s (Tamerlane’s) tomb was discovered in 1943 when a child playing football fell through the ground.

- Hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Guided by a professional
- Train tickets or alternative transportation provided
- Hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Guided by a professional
- Train tickets or alternative transportation provided
- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Drinks
- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Drinks
- Dress code is smart casual
- Dress code is smart casual
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.