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| Skyline Bukhara, Uzbekistan |
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| Uzbekistan
Tashkent: In the modern capital of the Republic of Uzbekistan you will find an interesting mix of old and new. Ride the beautifully decorated metro to the bustling Chorsu bazaar, where you can buy everything from pomegranates to local handicrafts. See the 16th century madrasas (Islamic seminaries) of the Old Town in the morning, then visit Tashkents museums and theaters in the afternoon. |
Samarkand: Although Samarkand was once conquered by Alexander the Great, and later Genghis Khan, it was under the rule of Tamerlane that most of the grand architecture was constructed. Samarkand served as the capital of the Timurid Empire during the 14th and 15th centuries. Here you can see the magnificent Registan, the mysterious Tomb of Tamerlane, and the beautiful Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Travelers have marveled at the monuments of this city for centuries and their beauty continues to exceed the expectations of all who make the journey to Samarkand.
Bukhara: In the holy city of Bukhara, images of empires past are embodied in brilliant architectural masterpieces. Some of the many historical monuments include the imposing Kalyan Minaret, the 1st century Ark Fortress, and the Samani Mausoleum. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the labyrinth of streets in old Bukhara, where you will find caravanserai, public baths, and the workshops of local artisans.
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| One of the Many Mosques of Central Asia |
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| Traditional Dancers Performing |
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| Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
Khiva: This 2000 year old Silk Road city sits in the middle of the vast Kara-Kum desert. Unlike the mix of ancient and modern architecture found in other Central Asian cities, Khiva has been almost perfectly preserved in its original form. Here you will find the Djuma Mosque with its intricate woodcarvings, the blue-tiled Tash-Khauli Palace, and the Kunya Ark.
Almaty: In Almaty, the capital of Kazakhstan, you can walk along the broad, tree-lined avenues and observe the combination of Russian and Kazakh influences. The contrasting cultures are displayed by the Zenkov Cathedral, an ornately decorated Russian-Orthodox Church, which sits blocks away from a large, Central Asian bazaar.
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Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan
Bishkek: In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, you can learn about the nomadic Kyrgyz people at the history and art museums. Then stroll through this relaxing city and enjoy the beautiful view of the Tien-Shan mountains. Also, a few hours from Bishkek you will find Lake Issyk-Kul, where you can hike in the mountains, relax on the beach, or explore ancient petroglyphs dating back to the first millennium BC.
Ashkhabad: Ashkhabad, the capital of Turkmenistan, is situated in the center of the Akhal-Teke Oasis, within the Kara-Kum desert. Here you will find the famous Sunday Market, where villagers from throughout the region come to sell new and antique, hand-made Bukharan style carpets, colorful clothing, and traditional jewelry.
Contact us:
Emir Travel
Mila Akhmedova, Director
13 Husaenov Street
Bukhara, Uzbekistan 705018
Office Tel: 998 (65) 224-49-65
Office Fax: 998 (65) 224-41-17
Home Tel: 998 (65) 226-46-00
E-mail: mila@emirtravel.com
Photos Copyright 2000 Julie McKay
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| Traditional Craftswoman at Work |
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