Shakhrisabz Day Trip

After breakfast at your hotel, a scenic drive of about 90 minutes over the mountains to Shakhrisabz, past fields, small villages and mountain views.

A roadside stop at Teshiktosh, the “hole stone”: a massive rock with a large opening through it, whose origin is still a mystery.

The remains of Timur's grand summer palace from the late 14th century. Even in ruins, its huge gate towers show the power of the Timurid dynasty.

A religious complex with the Kok Gumbaz Mosque and the tombs of important Timurid figures, including Timur's father, Amir Taraghay.

A memorial complex built for members of Timur's family, including his son Jahongir, with fine Timurid architecture and tilework.

A traditional Uzbek lunch at a local restaurant: plov, shashlik or lagman, with fresh bread and green tea.

In the Dorus Saodat complex lies the stone crypt Timur prepared for himself. He was buried in Gur-e-Amir in Samarkand instead, but the crypt remains a site of great historical importance.

Time to browse the shops of Shakhrisabz for ceramics, hand-woven textiles, embroidery, leather goods and wood carvings.

A relaxed 90-minute drive back to Samarkand.