Treasures of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan & Tajikistan – LUXURY RAIL

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Your adventure begins in Tashkent. As you step into this vibrant city, you’ll be warmly greeted and swiftly whisked away to the luxurious Hyatt Regency hotel for a one-night stay.

As the sun sets, join us for a Welcome Reception and Dinner that promises to be a memorable moment to mark the start of your Golden Eagle voyage. This is your chance to forge connections and share in the excitement with your fellow travellers, setting the stage for the extraordinary and much-anticipated adventure that lies ahead.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Hyatt Regency or similar

Embark on a thrilling journey through the ancient heart of Tashkent, a city that seamlessly marries its 2,200-year-old history with sleek modernity.

Your sightseeing adventure includes a visit to the Khasti-Imam Complex, an architectural wonder that evokes awe, and the culturally significant Independence Square. Delve into the heritage at the Applied Arts Museum, housed in the opulent former residence of the Imperial Russian diplomat, Alexander Polovtsev. As we explore the city, enjoy the opportunity to traverse the underground artistry of the Tashkent Metro, where ornate Soviet-inspired stations enchant your senses.

As the day’s excitement draws to a close, indulge in a champagne reception graced with the melodic tunes of Karnay-Surnay, a national wind instrument ensemble. The platform comes alive with music, setting the stage for your grand entrance aboard the Golden Eagle.

The adventure continues with a sumptuous Welcome Dinner onboard, as we bid farewell to Tashkent and set our course towards the enchanting Fergana Valley.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Kokand is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan and served as a critical trading post on the Silk Road. Highlights of our touring include the majestic Palace of Khudayar Khan (the Pearl of Kokand), and the Jami Mosque, Kokand’s most impressive Mosque.

Your journey through the Fergana Valley takes you to the renowned ceramics hub of Rishtan, a place where artistry and tradition meet. Witness the magic of pottery in action during an enthralling demonstration and get a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into decorating these exquisite ceramics. Enjoy the immersive experience with the opportunity to unleash your creativity and design your very own ceramic masterpiece!

Your programme continues in Margilan, a location steeped in history as a vital crossroads for ancient trade routes. Here, you will have the chance to step into the world of silk, a treasure of this city. Immerse yourself in the time-honoured art of silk weaving as you explore a craftsman’s workshop and studio, where the secrets of this ancient craft come to life. It is a day filled with experiential moments and a deep dive into Uzbekistan’s rich artistic traditions!

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Over the next two days we step into the enchanting world of Bukhara, a city where the threads of modernity weave seamlessly with ancient architecture, creating an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical. Legend has it that the Persian Prince Siyavush founded this city back in the 5th century B.C., and today, it is a living treasure trove of historical wonders, meticulously restored to their former glory.

Your adventures in Bukhara include a visit to the imposing Ark Fortress, the once-residence of the mighty Emirs of Bukhara. Despite enduring the turmoil of the advancing Russian Red Army in 1920, the fortress has risen from the ashes, now housing captivating museums and the resplendent 17th-century Juma Mosque. For a bird’s-eye view like no other, we will ascend by lift to the pinnacle of the Shukhov Water Tower, offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the ancient heart of Bukhara.

Yur touring program will also transport us to the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, home to the iconic Kalyan Mosque, a living relic of traditional design. Stroll through the mosque’s large maksura rooms, pillar-domed galleries, and deeply recessed niches, and you will be transported to a bygone era.

Immerse yourself in the lively pulse of the city as we explore the bustling Trading Domes of Bukhara and gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a vibrant social hub cocooned by a pool and embraced by the soothing shade of mulberry trees and local tea rooms.

During our two unforgettable days in this city, you will have the freedom to wander and explore Bukhara at your own pace. Dive into the vibrant bazaars, haggle for treasures, or simply take a break to savour the local flavours in charming tea rooms.

And, when it comes to dining, we have got two extraordinary highlights in store for you. Savor the delectable Bukharian cuisine in the rooftop restaurant of the Minorai Kalon Hotel, where you will relish every bite while taking in uninterrupted views of Poi-Kalyan Square.

But the culinary adventure does not end there! Brace yourself for a unique experience – a traditional Uzbek barbecue on the train platform by the Golden Eagle. Follow the mouthwatering aromas of freshly grilled delights that tantalise your senses throughout your exploration of Uzbekistan. It is your chance to taste these delectable dishes in a truly unforgettable setting. Get ready for a feast of flavours!

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Nestled in the enchanting north-west of Uzbekistan, the city of Nukus boasts a captivating setting, surrounded by three magnificent deserts: the Kara Kum, Kyzyl Kum, and Ustyurt. Here, a pristine and untouched landscape unfolds before your eyes, adorned with endless stretches of sandy vistas, enchanting dunes, and towering peaks that beckon adventure.

Our voyage through Nukus leads us to the extraordinary Igor Savitsky State Museum of the Fine Arts, a true gem in this remote oasis. Aptly nicknamed the ‘Louvre in the Sands,’ this museum houses Central Asia’s most extensive art collection, featuring a staggering 100,000 avant-garde masterpieces and crafts from the Karakalpak region. Prepare to be mesmerised by the artistic treasures that await, promising an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Prepare to be transported back to the enthralling 10th century as we explore the living museum that is Khiva, a city adorned with grandeur. Here, you will be whisked away to a world of majestic buildings, spiralling columns, and intricately carved doors that whisper tales of ancient splendour.

Your adventure in Khiva centres around Itchan Kala, the hallowed Old Town, celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside these ancient walls, a treasure trove of architectural marvels awaits your discovery, from palaces and mosques to madrasas, mausoleums, and minarets. Among them, you will encounter the time-honoured Juma Mosque, built in the 10th century, and the breathtaking Kalta Minor Minaret.

Rooted deeply in the rich history of the Silk Road, Khiva boasts a culinary identity that is a delightful fusion of Chinese, Turkish, and Persian traditions. During our time here, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the flavours of Khorezmian cuisine, notably the renowned Shivit Oshi – green pasta infused with dill, served alongside freshly baked bread. It is a journey for your senses that promises a taste of history and culture!

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Today in Shakhrizabz, believed to be the birthplace of Amir Timur, the military prodigy who modelled himself on Genghis Khan and used similar violent methods to conquer and control his Empire, we visit the UNESCO-honoured statue of Amir Timur and his Ak-Saray Palace. This majestic palace in Shakhrizabz took over a quarter of a century to build, and was originally decorated with colourful, highly detailed mosaic but also included delicate calligraphic inscriptions from the Qur’an. Amid the decorative facing, there is an inscription showing the date 798 (1395 – 1396 AD) which was when the building was completed.

After your rendezvous with these captivating historical monuments, prepare to savour an open-air barbecue feast that will tantalize your taste buds. You will also be treated to a time-honoured folklore performance. This enchanting cultural display is a poetic expression of Central Asia’s vibrant heritage, with its hauntingly ritualistic melodies, a captivating window into the soul of this land.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

Samarkand, the ‘Crossroad of Culture,’ a city that boasts an incredible history spanning over two and a half millennia. As you step into this living museum, you’ll follow in the footsteps of legendary dynasties like Genghis Khan, the Timurids, and more recently the Soviets, embarking on an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Over the next two days, you will unlock the secrets of Samarkand through a comprehensive and exhilarating touring programme.

Your adventure includes a visit to the awe-inspiring Registan Square, the heart of Samarkand, a testament to the grandeur of the Timurid Dynasty. Perfectly framed by three madrasah’s and with its ethereal ornate portals, intricate minarets, and glimmering cupolas, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a breathtaking work of art.

You will also journey to the Ulugh Beg Observatory, a pre-modern marvel and the largest of its kind, followed by a visit to the architecturally stunning Shakhi Zinda Necropolis.

Your quest for knowledge takes us to the Meros Paper Mill, where you’ll gain a hands-on understanding of this ancient craft, learning the centuries-old techniques and processes. And for an immersive taste of Uzbek identity, you’ll participate in a thrilling cooking demonstration of Plov, a dish considered the very essence of Uzbekistan’s national identity and a staple at social gatherings.

Pay your respects at the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum (Tomb of the King), the final resting place of the great Timur (Tamarlane), known for its uniquely fluted azure dome and magnificent portal. Close by stands the majestic Bibi-Khanym Mosque, a structure so impressive in size and beauty that it is often likened to the gates of heaven. With its carved marble structures, elegant minarets, and glistening gold walls, such a comparison is more than justified.

There will also be the chance to visit the bustling Siab Bazaar, Samarkand’s largest market, where a vivid tapestry of spices, fresh bread, produce, meats, and a variety of traditional treats awaits. This vibrant market is a haven of excitement and colour, promising a shopping experience like no other. Get ready to be captivated by the enchantment of Samarkand!

Late afternoon on Day 10 return to the Golden Eagle and enjoy our onboard Gala Farewell Dinner. Upon arrival in Tashkent, we spend our final night at a luxury hotel.

Samarkand Signature Experience

Prepare for an unforgettable evening in Samarkand that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. As the sun sets and night descends upon this ancient city, you will be whisked away to the illuminated Registan Square, where an extraordinary spectacle unfolds. From your prime front-row seats, you’ll be treated to a dazzling light show that weaves the rich tapestry of Samarkand’s history and significance.

Following this mesmerising visual journey, we’ll indulge in a traditional dinner near Registan Square, where the evening takes an exciting turn with a fabulous fashion show by a local designer. This is a night that will etch itself into your memory, an experience you’ll carry with you forever.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Golden Eagle Train

This morning you will meet your Crooked Compass guide and visit ceramist Akbar Rahimov’s workshop (the dynasty of potters), the house of a master potter who has given new impetus to local pottery by hand-picking century-old styles and combining them with new designs. Enjoy a tea break with oriental sweets. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bishkek this evening. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Orion Hotel or similar

Following breakfast, set off on your city tour of Bishkek.

Osh Bazaar

Visit the Osh Bazaar – a huge open-air market, where it’s possible to buy everything. From food products and spices to common household goods, clothes, souvenirs, and even musical instruments. Mingle with the locals as you practice your bantering and bartering.

Following lunch, your will travel to Chon-Kemin Valley.

Burana Tower

On the way a visit to Burana Tower, a testament to the ancient city of Balasagun, which was a thriving Silk Road hub in present-day Kyrgyzstan. Constructed in the 9th to 10th centuries, this minaret originally soared to greater heights before earthquakes reduced it. Despite this, it still stands at an impressive 24.6 meters (81 feet).

Chon-Kemin valley

The Chon-Kemin valley is a place for those who truly appreciate natural beauty, as it remains – many say – in its virgin state. This afternoon, time permitting, you have the option to explore on foot and go hiking or jump on a horse and venture off with a local guide (approx. 2 hrs – moderate difficulty). (Payable locally). Your accommodation this evening, is a simple but comfortable local guesthouse, something that adds to the area’s back-to-basics charm.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Kemin Guesthouse or similar

Distance

180km, 3-4hr of driving on paved roads

Head to Cholpon-Ata along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, you will visit the museum of Nomad’s Civilizations and open-air museum of petroglyphs. Lunch will be enjoyed on arrival at your hotel.

Issyk-Kul Lake

Issyk-Kul Lake is one of the world’s few remaining ancient lakes, estimated to be an incredible 25 million years old, but also the second-largest alpine lake on the planet. Surrounding the lake are the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains, towering as high as 4000m in the sky. The lake itself reaches depths of over 610m.

Boasting a long and storied history, the lake was once a stop along the ancient Silk Road. Issyk-Kul was also once used by the Soviet Navy as a torpedo testing site, during which time foreigners were not permitted to visit the area.

Today you’ll visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu to observe traditional yurt production and witness an eagle hunting demonstration.

The afternoon is yours at leisure.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Baytur Spa & Resort Hotel or similar

Distance

140km, 2-3hr of driving on paved roads

Continue to Karakol. Your day continues with a city tour of Karakol, which includes a 1.5-hour stroll through the streets, taking in the Russian Orthodox Church, the Dungan-style Muslim Mosque, and the Museum of Prjevalski, honouring the famous traveller and Central Asia explorer. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before spending the evening immersed in the local culture with a traditional dinner hosted by a local family.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Green Yard Hotel or similar

Distance

140 km, 2-3 hours of driving

This morning you will drive to the Kyrgyz-Kazakh border. After formalities, continue to Kolsai Lake.

The Kolsai Lakes, known as the ‘Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan’, represent a cascade of three lakes. The largest lake is accessible to all travellers. It is the most beautiful lake, with a lack of civilisation and an abundance of wild mushrooms. For those who are horse lovers, there is the option to explore on horseback. The highest lake is small. It is located on the border of firewood and the alpine meadows and amazes with its harsh alpine beauty, as well as the rich flora and fauna. The vertical drop between the three lakes is about 700m. The lowest lake can be reached by car. Walk a few kilometres along mountain trails to see the second and third lakes. This will be one of your highlights. This area is rich in berries, mushrooms, and fishing. The water in the lakes is cold and clean and is home to the rainbow trout – a fish that lives only in running or spring water. In the surrounding mountains, you can see many birds, Marals, mountain goats, wolves and even bears.

Having arrived at Kolsay-1 Lake and after brief instructions, you will start trekking. The route lies on the bank of the lake and continues with the path through the pine forest, and alpine meadows along a pure mountain river flowing all the way down from Kolsai-2 Lake. The total walking distance between the two lakes is about 7 km and usually takes 3-3,5 hours one way. The altitude rises up more than 400m, from 1818m above sea level at the first lake to 2250 m at the second lake. There is no category of difficulty and the route is accessible for healthy, average-trained people. Enjoying your lunch in front of the cold and pure-clean lake in the surroundings of magnificent mountain peaks.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Kolsai Grand Hotel or similar

Distance

240 km, around 4-5 hours of driving

Depart for Charyn Canyon at 08:00 am. It will take about 2 hours to reach the canyon. Upon arrival, admire the grand panorama and go down to the bottom of the canyon to walk around 2 km through the maze of the Valley of the Castles.

Charyn Canyon is a natural complex, unique in its kind not only in Kazakhstan but also worldwide. It was formed during the Paleogene and reminds you of the Grand Canyon in North America, although inferior to it in size. The height of the steep slopes of the canyon is up to 150-300m. The extraordinary dissection of the terrain is striking: the numerous ravines form a dense, chaotic network. Wind and water have created the beautiful ‘Valley of Castles’, where you are always surrounded by fancy towers composed of sedimentary rocks. The length of the valley is more than 2km and its width is 20-80m. For millions of years, nature has been creating a unique architecture, erecting magnificent castles carefully and slowly. You can spend hours walking amongst the strange towers and columns, being absorbed in the wild imagination of nature.

The bottom of the canyon has a slight descent to the end of the walk, where you will reach the fresh oasis on the banks of the icy cold Charyn River. Here there is a small eco-park with several yurts (traditional dwellings) and a small open air café, operating in the summer months. Relax and take in the surrounding beauty before walking back and driving to one of the observation points for another breathtaking panoramic view. Your lunch today will be served in a local café in the canyon.

Continue to Almaty. Dinner this evening is in a local restaurant.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Rixos Hotel or similar

Distance

300 km, around 6-7 hours of driving

Your morning starts with sightseeing in the central part of Almaty. You learn about the history and development of the Southern capital of Kazakhstan and see its major attractions. Your tour will continue in one of the oldest Almaty parks – Panfilov Park, where one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the world – Zenkov Cathedral is located. You will also visit the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, dedicated to the memory of the fighters who died for the freedom and independence of the country.

Discover the Central State Museum and Republic Square. Your next destination is the Kok-Tobe hill where the tallest TV tower in the world is located (from sea level) and where you will travel via the picturesque winding mountain road. In Kok-Tobe Park, you can stroll along the winding paths of the park, admire the magnificent panorama of the city from the special observation deck and visit the shop of national souvenirs.

Alternatively, instead of exploring the city, you may opt to visit Medeo Gorge, well known for being home to the highest mountain skating rink in the world and the dam, protecting the city from dangerous mudflow. Take a brief walk around with a chance to take your mountain-view pictures and breathe the fresh pine tree air. Please advise your preference at time of booking.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Rixos Hotel or similar

Following breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Dushanbe, on the Varzob River, is the capital of Tajikistan.

Upon arrival, meet with your guide and driver before setting off on a city tour.

Dushanbe City Tour

Ismail Samani monument

Visit the Ismail Samani monument, honouring the first king of Tajiks and the founder of the Samanid State, whose influence extended across Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran during the 9th and 10th centuries.

State Flag Square

Located in the centre of the city, to the left of the Nation Palace, this flagpole entered the Guiness Book of Records as the tallest flagpole In the world. Standing at 165, with an area of 1800sqm, the width is 30m by 60m.

Botanical Gardens

Visit the Botanical garden with its many old trees – a favourite place for the Tajiks. Later, you will visit the local bazaar – Mehrgon, where you will feel the real spirit of Tajikistan and see the oriental art of trading.

Enjoy dinner this evening in a local restaurant.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Serena Dushanbe or similar

This morning you will travel to Iskandarkul Lake. Iskanderkul is a mountain lake of glacial origin in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,195 metres on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the Fann Mountains. The area of the lake is 30000 ha. Today you will also see Niagara Fanns – a waterfall from which water falls from 35m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration

130km, 2-3hr of driving

Continue your journey this morning to Penjikent.

Orientation tour

Visit the Museum of Rudaki. Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu-Abdallah Rudaki, who is considered by many to be the father of Persian Poetry. You will also visit the local bazaar and mosque.

Following lunch in a local restaurant, this afternoon explore ancient Penjikent – the ruins of the 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. Sarazm ruins – one of the ancient settlements in Central Asia with a 5500 – year civilisation. In 2010, Sarazm was added to the list of Human Heritage by UNESCO.

Dinner this evening is in a local restaurant.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration

160km, 3-4hr of driving

Haf Kul-seven lakes

Drive to Seven Lakes. Explore Haf Kul-seven lakes of different colours in the Fann mountains of Tajikistan. You will visit the following lakes: Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor, Nophin lakes (2139m), Khurdak, Marguzor, and Khazorchashma (2400m). Lake Khazorchashma in Marguzor valley is the most beautiful and clean lake in this valley.

Enjoy a walking tour between 6 lakes – Marguzor to Khazorchashma lakes, located at altitudes from 2000 to 2400 m. Hiking time is 2-3 hrs.

Enjoy lunch at a local house during your hiking adventure.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Rudaki guesthouse or similar

Distance & Duration

80km each way

After breakfast drive back to Dushanbe. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before setting off to explore the National Museum.

Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities

Start your guided city tour with a visit to the Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities which exhibits primarily from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations: the Greek, Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Zoroastrian periods. The most notable piece in the museum is the largest, fifteen-hundred-year-old reclining Buddha statue.

Hissar Fortress

Lastly, you will visit Hissar Fortress, a historic site dating back to the 18th century and occupied until 1924. Nearby, you’ll discover two plain Madrassahs—one from the 18th century and the other from the 19th century. Further, a 16th-century mausoleum graces the landscape. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant, complete with an engaging show program to cap off your day of exploration.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Serena Hotel or similar

Distance & Duration

230km, 4-5hr of driving

Today following breakfast, the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals

Breakfast