Treasures of Uzbekistan Rail Journey

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, where comfort and opulence await. As the sun sets, join 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 travelers, setting the stage for the extraordinary and much-anticipated adventure that lies ahead.

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 you 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 you bid farewell to Tashkent and set our course towards the enchanting Fergana Valley. An evening of elegance and anticipation!

Kokand is one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan and served as a critical trading post on the Silk Road. Highlights of your 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! Our program 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-honored 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!

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, you will ascend by lift to the pinnacle of the Shukhov Water Tower, offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the ancient heart of Bukhara. Your tour will also transport you 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 you 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 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 savor the local flavors in charming tea rooms.

And, when it comes to dining, you'll 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 tantalize 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 flavors!

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.

Your voyage through Nukus leads 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 mesmerized by the artistic treasures that await, promising an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

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, spiraling columns, and intricately carved doors that whisper tales of ancient splendor.

Your adventure in Khiva centers 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-honored Juma Mosque, built in the 10th century, and the breathtaking Kalta Minor Minaret. Rooted deeply in the rich tapestry of the Silk Road, Khiva boasts a culinary identity that is a delightful fusion of Chinese, Turkish, and Persian traditions. During your time here, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the flavors 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!

Believed to be the birthplace of Amir Timur, the military prodigy who modeled himself on Genghis Khan and used similar violent methods to conquer and control his Empire, you'll visit the UNESCO-honored statue of Amir Timur and his Ak-Saray Palace. This majestic palace in Shahrisabz took over a quarter of a century to build, and was originally decorated with colorful, 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 savor an open-air barbecue feast that will tantalize your taste buds. You will also be treated to a time-honored Kazakh 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.

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'll unlock the secrets of Samarkand through a comprehensive and exhilarating touring program. 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. Our 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. We'll pay our 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 color, promising a shopping experience like no other. Get ready to be captivated by the enchantment of Samarkand! Depart on Day 11.