Penjikent Day Trip From Samarkand
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Penjikent is an ancient city in Tajikistan. The last ancient city of the Sogdians 5-8cc ad in Zerafshan Valley with very ancient background along the Great Silk Road, which was ruined by Arabs invasion 7-8 cc ad. Hometown of Rudaki, the first great modern Tajik poet in 10th Century.
In this day trip you will visit Ancient Sarazm (world heritage site of UNESCO, bronze age- 5500 y ), ruins of Ancient Panjakent, local market and Visit of Rudaki museum.
Available options
Penjikent Day Trip From Samarkand
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Certified Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
This morning you will depart Uzbekistan/Tajikistan border (1 h). After crossing both borders you will meet your driver and Guide and drive to one of the historical and beautiful city Panjakent in Zerafshan Valley.Panjakent is a city in the Sughd province of Tajikistan on the Zeravshan River, with a population of 33,000 people. It was once an ancient town in Sogdiana. The ruins of the old town are on the outskirts of the modern city. The Sarazm Important Bird Area lies
downstream of the city on the tugay-vegetated floodplain of the river.
2
Rudaki is the founder of Tajik – Persian classic literature 9-10 who was born in Panjrud village and buried there. He was the most popular poet of Somonids State 9-10 cc ad. In 2008 the government of Tajikistan officially celebrated the 1150 anniversary of Rudaki in the country and today we have many places, streets and universities which are named after this great poet.
In the late afternoon after all Exploration in Panjakent drive back to the Tajik/ Uzbek border to Samarkand. Cross the border and drive to Samarkand.
Meet our driver in Samarkand side and tranfer to last point in Samarkand city. End of the tour.
3
Ancient Sarazm
This sight was excavated in 1970th, when one of the locals went to work in field and suddenly found an axe and in case he will need it, he decided to keep it. But once when he went to visit one of the museums, he saw something similar with axe in his storage and showed it to archeologists. In fact since that time Sarazm settlement was excavated as one of the first very well developed settlement of Bronze Age in the territory of Central Asia and in 2010 it was in the list of UNESCO heritage. Officially the Government of Tajikistan will celebrate 5500 anniversary of Sarazm in October 2020.
What's not included
Lunch
Dinner
All Fees and Taxes
Available languages
Guide guide
HI
DE
RU
PT
KO
CMN
EN
IT
FR
ES
AR
JA
FA
UR
TR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
0
2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Samarkand
Samarkand is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia, known for its rich history and stunning Islamic architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with landmarks that reflect the city's status as a hub on the ancient Silk Road.
Top Attractions
Registan Square
Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand, featuring three stunning madrasahs (Islamic schools) with intricate tile work and towering minarets. It's one of the most iconic sights in Central Asia.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
This mausoleum is the burial place of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. It's known for its stunning blue tile work and intricate design.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
This ancient necropolis is a collection of stunning mausoleums and tombs, known for their intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
This grand mosque was built by Timur in honor of his favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. It's one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world and features stunning architecture and tile work.
Historical/Architecture
1 hour
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Siab Bazaar
This bustling bazaar is a great place to experience local life and sample traditional Uzbek food. It's a sensory overload with its colors, smells, and sounds.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, budget for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plov
Plov is a rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, and onions. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is often served at celebrations.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Lagman
Lagman is a noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for colder weather.
Main dish
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Samsa
Samsa are baked pastries filled with meat, onions, and spices. They're a popular street food and are often sold at bazaars.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Non
Non is a traditional Uzbek bread, often baked in a tandoor oven. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and is served with most meals.
Bread
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Exploring historic sites
Horseback riding
Visiting tea houses
Enjoying a traditional hammam (bathhouse)
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Uzbek
- Widely spoken: Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
Time Zone
UTC+5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Samarkand is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets and scams
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
Getting there
By air
- Samarkand International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Samarkand Railway Station
By bus
Samarkand Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded but are a good way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Afrosiab
Kuk-Saroy
Day trips
Shakhrisabz
90 km from Samarkand • Full day
Shakhrisabz is a historic city known for its stunning architecture and ties to Timur (Tamerlane). It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with several impressive ruins and monuments.
Penjikent
120 km from Samarkand • Full day
Penjikent is a charming town in Tajikistan, known for its historic ruins and natural beauty. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and the outdoors.
Ulugbek's Observatory
5 km from Samarkand • Half day
Ulugbek's Observatory is a historic site dedicated to the astronomical work of Ulugbek, the grandson of Timur. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history of astronomy and science in Central Asia.
Festivals
Silk and Spices Festival • May
Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the city's many historic sites
- Visit the bazaars early in the morning for the best selection and atmosphere
- Try local specialties like plov, lagman, and samsa at traditional restaurants and street food stalls
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay for a more local and authentic experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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