After some memorable adventures in Samarkand, Bukhara, and the Zaamin Mountains, our journey through Uzbekistan concluded in Tashkent. Now it was time to venture into neighboring Kyrgyzstan, with our sights set on the charming town of Karakol and the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountains in the country's eastern region. As a first step, we had to reach the Kyrgyz capital.Buses to … [Read more...]
One Day in Tashkent: Uzbekistan’s Monumental Capital City
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant city blending Soviet-era architecture, Islamic heritage, and modern urban design. Known as a key stop along the ancient Silk Road, Tashkent has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Landmarks like the Khast Imam Complex, home to the world's oldest Quran, highlight its Islamic roots, while Soviet influences can be seen in … [Read more...]
Our Adventure with Uzbekistan’s Outdated Hotel Registration System
On the last full day of our trip to Uzbekistan, we arrived at our booked hotel in Tashkent. It was still quite early, and we were quite excited to leave our stuff and head out to explore. However, our plans quickly unraveled, and the afternoon took an unexpected and unpleasant turn when, during check-in, the receptionist asked us for our hotel registration...I’m like: “Excuse … [Read more...]
From Zaamin to Tashkent, Uzbekistan
After two unforgettable visits to Samarkand and Bukhara, Uzbekistan’s Silk Road-era historical gems, we found ourselves in the remote Zaamin Mountains. Following a pleasant hike the previous day, it was now time to continue our journey through Central Asia to Tashkent.The taxi driver who had brought us from Samarkand two days earlier had given us his number, offering to drive … [Read more...]
Zaamin National Park: Our Trip to the Mountains of Uzbekistan
It was still the first week of our journey through Central Asia, and so far, we had visited only Samarkand and Bukhara. While we were mesmerized by the exotic grace of these ancient cities, the relentless August heat of the arid Uzbek lowlands left us fatigued and drained. Longing for a cooler climate, we were delighted to hear about Zaamin National Park.Located in Uzbekistan's … [Read more...]
From Bukhara to Samarkand by Bus
After two days of exploring Bukhara, it was time to return to Samarkand and continue on to Zaamin National Park. On our way from Samarkand to Bukhara, we took a shared taxi for 100,000 som per person. It was undeniably fast—perhaps a bit too fast. The driver’s reckless driving could give you a heart attack long before an actual crash occurred. So this time we opted to try the … [Read more...]
Two Days in Bukhara: Immersing in the Silk Road’s Legacy
Following Samarkand, we continued our Central Asia journey with two days in Bukhara. One of the most ancient cities in Uzbekistan, this is a treasure trove of history and culture that dates back over 2,500 years. Once a key hub on the Silk Road, it flourished as a center for trade, religion, and learning, with a skyline dominated by historic madrasas, mosques, and … [Read more...]
From Samarkand to Bukhara by Bus or Shared Taxi
After spending two days exploring the vibrant and historic city of Samarkand at the start of our 2024 Central Asia journey, we decided to continue our adventure by heading to Bukhara. In this post, I’ll share helpful information and key details about the trip. If you prefer to avoid the hassle of public transport and arrange a private transfer with a hotel pickup, you can do it … [Read more...]
Two Days in Samarkand: Uzbekistan’s Silk Road Treasure City
In early August 2024, we began our month-long journey through Central Asia, stepping off the plane into the hot, dazzling noon at Samarkand International Airport.One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the region, Samarkand holds immense historical and cultural significance. As a principal nexus of the Silk Road, it served as a vital crossroads for trade and cultural … [Read more...]
