Shakhrisabz Private Day Tour from Samarkand

Samarkand , Uzbekistan

Shakhrisabz Private Day Tour from Samarkand

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About this experience

Avoid the hassle of renting a car to see a beautiful landscape and historical monuments beyond Samarkand with help from 7 hours a day tour which includes transport from Samarkand, local guide in Shakhrisabz and entrance tickets to the monuments.
Beyond Samarkand, the road to the south, through Zarafshan Range, a Pamiri spur, towards the Takhtakaracha Pass. Along this major Silk Road branch marched the armies of the Greats, Alexander and Amir Temur, en route to India. In 1395 Amir Temur ordered a palace and garden built here, between his imperial capital and his birthplace Shakhrisabz, 90 kilometers south. The road passes through villages, resting in the shade of white acacias, Persian walnut, pine and plane trees. The peak of the pass is more than 1620 meters in elevation and in a clear day after the peak of the pass there is a spot of fine panorama of the town Kitob of Kashkadarya province.

Available options

Shakhrisabz Private Day Tour from Samarkand

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance tickets to the monuments

Air-conditioned vehicle

English speaking local guide in Shakhrisabz

Detailed itinerary

Beyond Samarkand, the road to the south, through Zarafshan Range, a Pamiri spur, towards the Takhtakaracha Pass. Along this major Silk Road branch marched the armies of the Greats, Alexander and Amir Temur, en route to India. Photo stop to capture unusual shape of stones and snow capped mountains (one can see snow from November to March).

You stop on top of Takhtakaracha Pass take picture of local market (the peak of the pass is more than 1620 meters in elevation).

In a clear day after the peak of the pass there is a spot of fine panorama of the town Kitob of Kashkadarya province.

Ak Saray Palace (“a white palace” in Uzbek) built in 1380-1404. Amir Temur gathered its craftsmen to his hometown to build his greatest palace, similar in structure to Samarkand’s Bibi Khanum Mosque. The name Ak-Serai (White Palace) symbolizes his noble descent, not the dominant colour, for blue, green and gold patterned the vast mosaics.

Statue of Amir Temur— there are three huge statues of Temur: one is in Samarkand, one is in Tashkent and the third is in his hometown Shakhrisabz in standing position. The bronze statue weighs 20 tons and 9 meters high built after the Independence (1991).

Complex of Dor-us Siyadat (“place of sadness” in Uzbek) from XIV century. It arose on the death of his eldest and favorite son Jahangir, killed in 1375 (aged only 22). When another son, Umar Sheikh, joined Jahangir in 1394, Temur even built himself a crypt.

Dor-ut Tilavat (“place of praying” In Uzbek) from XIV-XV centuries, contains the Kok Gumbaz Mosque (1435) built by grandson of Temur Mirzo Ulugbek, the mausoleum constructed by Amir Temur in 1373-1374 for Sheikh Shamseddin Kulyal, a Sufic leader and spiritual advisor of Temur’s father , Taraghay.

What's not included

Lunch

Photo and video charges 5 usd (for photography cameras. It is free if travelers use phone cameras)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total duration of the tour is 7 hours which includes driving to Shakhrisabz and back, also lunch time.

On this tour you visit architectural marvels which have a rich history and important religious sites. It’s recommended to follow a specific dress code when visiting these iconic landmarks. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tight, revealing, or transparent clothing. Women should cover their hair with a headscarf or shawl when they enter to holy places.

Meeting point

In front of Amir Temur mausoleum

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