Step away from the mainstream and dive into deep rugged landscapes and cultural triumphs of an unknown, exotic, fabled destination - Uzbekistan, one of only two double-landlocked countries in the world. Traveling through Uzbekistan’s Silk route cities is like a journey through living history. In so many fascinating ways, the past and present live side by side.
The amazing cities of Bukhara, Tashkent and Samarkand are known for great wealth and exceptional islamic architecture of fabulous mosques, medressas and mausoleums deeply infused with the power, legacy of the Turco-Mongol king Timur. One of Timur's monuments rightly bears the proverb: 'If you want to know about us, examine our architecture'.
Join 50+ Voyagers Travel and Adventure Club - on a journey through spellbinding arsenal of architecture in ancient cities of silkroute and feel genuinely welcome by golden smiles of locals on the road to Uzbekistan.
From the remarkable mosques and Soviet architecture of Tashkent to Samarkand, follow the legendary Silk Road through the exotic best of Uzbekistan.
Indulge in steamy marble hammams, roam the twisting lanes of ancient bazaars and explore the monuments and minarets of Samarkand .
Discover the remote romance atmospheric madrasas and mosques of Bukhara the most glorious city in Central Asia.
Attend a creative workshop with traditional Uzbek cuisine at Gijduvan – an ancient town famous for distinctive ceramic and embroidery craft.
Explore exotics of modern East, ancient history, mesmerizing medieval architecture, ingenious applied arts, Uzbek hospitality, yummy pilau, crispy Uzbek bread.
Detail Itinerary
Day 1: ARRIVAL IN TASHKENT
Welcome to the Cultural Capital
Board early morning flight from Delhi to Tashkent. From the Tashkent Airport after clearing immigration formalities, we shall have lunch and proceed to hotel for check in.
Tashkent is usually derived from the Turkish word 'tash' (stone) and the Persian word 'kent' (city),
meaning 'city of stones'. This wonderful city has its own unique flavor - combining
medieval buildings as if descended from the pages of old oriental tales and elegant European
architecture from the period of Rassian era. Spend evening at leisure at Independence Square, a park surrounded with several monuments, fountains, impressive public buildings and filled with trees and flowerbeds. We shall attend Dinner with folklore show and return back to hotel for good night sleep.
Day 2: SAMARKAND
The Lagacy of Genghis Khan
After early breakfast or with breakfast box at 6:30 am, board Tashkent – Samarkand Afrasiyab fast train which will cover 280 KM in 2 hours, to Samarkand, an UNESCO World Heritage site and of same age as Babylon or Rome. In its history it has been ruled by Persians, Greeks, Turks, Mongols, Chinese and Russians. Half a dozen religions have found a home here. Alexander passed through in the 4th century BC. The Chinese scholar-travellers Faxian and Xuanzang, the Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta, and Marco Polo all wrote about the city. Gengis Khan laid waste to Samarkand in the 13th century. In the 14th century Timur rebuilt it into a city the likes of which had never been seen before.
Upon reaching Samarkand, proceed to Gur Emir, mausoleum of the Asian conqueror Timur. This architectural complex with its azure dome contains the tombs of Tamerlane, his sons Shah Rukh and Miran Shah and grandsons Ulugh Beg and Muhammad Sultan. Gur Emir a masterpiece of Islamic architecture of medieval East. The ribbed dome and vault walls of this structure are completely covered with a mosaic of light and dark blue glazed bricks, gilding and painting.
Post lunch, we shall proceed to hotel for check in. In the afternoon visit Ulugh Beg Observatory, which was built in the 1420s by the Timurid ruler Ulugh Beg, grandson of emperor Timur the Lame. The observatory was the site of the world’s most advanced astronomical studies during 14th century.
Once night falls, drive to local restaurant for dinner and then to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 3: SAMARKAND
One more day at The City Of Wonder
Post breakfast embark on a city tour of Samarkand. Admire, 'the noblest public square in the world' - Registan Square, a unique set of two madrassahs and one mosque – Tilia Kari (golden mosque) - its ornate portals, patterned minarets and glistening cupolas, a fairy world of glazed mosaics in liquid shades of blue.
Visit one of the most mysterious and unique architectural monuments of Samarkand, Shahi Zinda (Persian – “The Living King") Necropolis. It consists of rows of stunning sparkling blue color domes along the medieval streets.
Post lunch, proceed to Bibi Khanum Mosque - The majestic blue domes of the Bibi-Khanym
Mosque are the unusual sight. It takes one’s breath even from understanding the scale of
construction of this monument, impressing with its size and beauty. In antiquity the dome of this
mosque was compared with the dome of heaven and the arch of portal – with the Milky Way.
Enhance your travel experience by shopping at Siyab Bazaar which bustles frenetically with local farmers and traders, and is undoubtedly the best way to soak in local culture. From a range of enticing dry fruits including Bukhara almonds, naan, mouth-watering local fruits like apricots, peaches and grapes to colorful sequined scarves, skull caps and local handicrafts. Walking through this market is an unparalleled adventure as Indian tourists are greeted excitedly with names of Bollywood celebrities, who are household names here. Once night falls, drive to local restaurant for dinner and then proceed to hotel for
overnight stay.
Day 4: BUKHARA
Follow the Silk Route
Today post checkout from hotel, will travel by highspeed Afrasiyab train to Bukhara, one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan, situated on a sacred hill. According to the legend Bukhara was founded by King Siavash, a legendary Persian prince from the beginnings of the Persian Empire. This city was founded in the 13th century BC during the reign of Siyavushids. UNESCO, while nameing Bukhara a World Heritage site, stated that 'It is the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia, with an urban fabric that has remained largely intact.'
Post lunch, proceed on a walking tour to architectural ensemble Lyabi-Khauz which is formed with three large monumental buildings: Kukeldash Madrasah in the north, khanaka and Nodir Divan-begi in the west and in the east. Enjoy dinner at local restaurant and proceed to the hotel.
Day 5: BUKHARA CITY TOUR
The City of Museums
In morning post breakfast on a walking tour, head for Maghoki-Attar Mosque the oldest mosque in Central Asia. It also boasts an illustrious history of sacredness as it was originally occupied by a Buddhist temple, then later a Zoroastrian temple that was built in the 5th century. Zoroastrianism was a monotheistic faith and the state religion of the Persian Empire before the rise of Islam.
Later visit Ark-Citadel residence of Bukhara khans. It is a massive fortress which was initially built and occupied around the 5th century AD. In addition to being a military structure, the Ark was inhabited by the various royal courts that held sway over the region surrounding Bukhara. The Ark was used as a fortress until it fell to Russia in 1920 and currently, houses museums covering its history.
Spend afternoon exploring Taqi-Zaragon one of the best place for jewelry night. The bazaar is situated within the best preserved ancient domes in Bukhara and date back to the 16th century. Within the same complex you will also find an excellent selection of carpets.
Day 6: GUJDAVUN
The City of Ceramics
In morning post breakfast proceed to Sitorai Mohi Khosa - the summer palace of the Emirs of Bukhara. We shall visit the town of Gujduvan - famous for its green-blue paintings style on ceramic products. We shall visit a craftsman house and his workshop to familiarize with his family and works. We shall participate in a master class in ceramics and shall have lunch with the hosts of the house.
Post lunch, proceed to Bukhara railway station to board highspeed Afrasiyab train to Tashkent. Upon reaching, enjoy dinner at restaurant and check in to the hotel.
Day 7 – TASHKENT
Exotic, fabled Capital City
Relish your breakfast and post checkout from hotel visit Khast Imam Complex, Sheikh Tillya Mosque, which preserves the world’s oldest existing Quran book, marked with the blood of the same Caliph Osman, who was assassinated in 655. Visit the State Museum of Applied Art, a treasure trove of carpets, ikats, suzani, metal work, wood craft and ceramics, all handcrafted by artisans from all over Uzbekistan.
We shall visit 2000 years old Chorsu Market, a true oriental bazaar, located in the center of the old town of Tashkent. Shop for dry fruits, oriental ornament, carpets and a national delicacy - peanuts boiled in sugar or honey. Take some rest at choykhonas, where you can taste amber yellow pilaf, fragrant shashlyk (grilled meat), hot shurpa (soup). We shall also ride the local metro rail and see some of the most beautiful underground stations in Central Asia. In the evening post early dinner, move towards the airport to fly back home carrying the good memories of this journey in your hearts.
Note: Please pay attention to your return international flight timing from Tashkent to Delhi - which will be on following/next date(26 April, 2024) early morning around 1:25 AM. Your domestic flight from Delhi to hometown to be booked accordingly.
6 Nights stay in 4* accommodation in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara. All stay on twin sharing basis. If you prefer single sharing room, contact us for supplemental cost.
High speed 'Afrasiyab' train tickets for Tashkent - Samarkand, Samarkand - Bukhara and Bukhara - Tashkent.
6 Continental Breakfast in hotel. 7 Lunch and 7 dinner - Mix of Indian and Uzbek meals. Both Veg/Non-veg meals available. Indian food not available in Bukhara and Samarkand, so it will be Uzbek cuisine only. Folklore show Dinner with traditional Uzbek music and dance performance. 1 litre of bottled drinking water per day per person.
Master-class in Gijduvan – famous uzbek ceramic and embroidery center. Entry tickets to sightseeing Fort, Palaces, Mosque, Museums as per tour plan with English speaking tour guide.
Uzbekistan Tourist eVisa and Visa support fee. International travel insurance till 70 years of age.
City tour of Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand by AC coach and group pick up/drop from Tashkent Airport.
Services of a Tour Manager, experienced in taking care of 50+ aged elderly, from 50+ Voyagers Travel and Adventure Club. GST payable to Government of India.
What is excluded
International Flight ticket from your home town to Tashkent - Uzbekistan and return.
You must travel by below International flight by Uzbekistan Airways between Delhi - Tashkent and return.
HY 422 - 19 April 2024 – DELHI 06:35 AM TO TASHKENT 09:05 AM
HY 421 - 26 April 2024 - TASHKENT 01.25 AM TO DELHI 04.55 AM
Cost of any hotel accomodation required at Delhi to catch early morning flight to Uzbekistan.
TCS - Tax Collected At Source on Foreign Tours as per Govt norms. As of now the TCS is 5%, however exact TCS amount will be collected as per TCS rate applicable during the tour date.
Additional cost of International Travel Insurance for age above 70 years. Any difference to be payable on actual by traveller.
Additional cost of International Travel Insurance for age above 70 years. Any difference to be payable on actual by traveler.
If traveler is not an Indian passport holder - Visa Fee and supplement for sightseeing tickets.
Sightseeing and attraction tickets not mentioned in inclusions. Any form of Joyrides, Boat rides, adventure activities which are not part of group activities
Additional hours/days/nights of stay required outside the check-in (2:00 PM) on tour start date and Check-out (11:00 AM) on tour end date, as per standard followed by hotels
Expense of personal nature like Porterage, tipping, laundry, telephone, beverages, room service charge, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax, meals not part of group buffet menu, seat booking/web check in fee etc.
Any expenses caused due to personal illness, hospitalization or accident.
Any expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as road blocks, landslide, accidents and any emergency evacuations.
Any additional expenses and any penalty/change/ cancellation fee of flight/train tickets due to flight/train disruption/ delay/ cancellation in any sector domestic/ International - whether included or excluded from tour package.
How to make booking
1
You can either click on 'Book Now' button on this page or call us (+91) 8095767595 or email us info@50plusvoyagers.com to request booking.
2
Send us a copy of your Pan card and Passport with validity of atleast 6 months from the day of return from Uzbekistan. You must the carry same with you during tour.
3
Pay Rs. 40,000 as 'tour booking fee' by on-line transfer or cheque to the current bank account of 50+ Voyagers Travel and Adventure Club Pvt. Ltd.
4
Pay balance amount 60 days before tour departure date.
Do You Need A Visa
Yes. Uzbekistan allows e-Visa for Indian passport holder and same will be applied by 50+ Voyagers and cost of it is included in tour package for Indian passport holders. For Non-Indian passport holder, extra supplement fee applicable to apply for eVisa.
** You must be fully vaccinated for Covid 19 to enter Uzbekistan.
Documents Required for Visa
1
Colour Scanned Copy of Passport valid for at least 180 days from the date of return of this tour.
2
Self attested copy of PAN Card to buy Foreign Exchange for International Travel, as mandated by Liberalized Remittance Scheme of RBI
3
Color Photo of 35x45 mm size with a resolution of 700 dpi or more. It must be in electronic format and of size less than 1 MB. Scanned or printed copy of photo not accepted.
4
Completed LRS Application-cum-Declaration Form to buy Foreign Exchange, as mandated by Liberalized Remittance Scheme of RBI. Form will be provided by 50+ Voyagers
5
Confirmed flight tickets - India to Uzbekistan and return
6
You must be fully vaccinated for Covid 19 to enter Uzbekistan.
What do our members say
Anjana NairMy mom went on the recent trip to Bhutan in Oct and hasn't been able to stop raving about it.. we were all skeptical if she'd be able to enjoy with a group of unknown strangers and also travel much since she has knee trouble but the end experience was wonderful to say the least! She has come back with child like glee on the fun she had with the group and of exploring beautiful Bhutan.. I would strongly recommend this to all those above 50 who have a passion for travelling and believe there is no age limit to having fun and discovering the world! Great going team 50+ voyagers .. I'm sure my mum is looking forward to her next trip already!
Usha ArchanaThis club gave me one of my best holidays with the recent Rajasthan Trip. It was a great experience traveling with people of ages 52 - 82, who came from different corners of India. Most of us were meeting each other for the first time in our lives, yet, by the end of the tour, it felt like we were all from one family. The club offers a wonderful opportunity for like-minded senior citizens to holiday together safely, comfortably and enjoyably at a reasonable cost!
RANJI KURUVILAEnjoyed the Ladakh trip immensely. The visit points were wisely chosen, the whole tour was well paced and all the arrangements were very nicely organised by 50+ Voyagers. Will definitely recommend you to my friends and will join you on another trip sometime next year. Congratulations and a big thank you.
Chitra WarrierJust returned from an amazing trip of Saurashtra. This dream come true would not have happened but for 50+. We met as strangers, 15 of us and left as friends. Leave those fears and apprehensions back and take that step to see this beautiful country with 50+. I do not know of anyone else who can plan and execute to near perfection a tour specially for the 50 plus group. Hats off to you Sangita and team.
