The Museum at Ulugh Beg Observatory. Built in the 1420s, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its astronomical instruments and stunning Islamic architecture.
Day 17 (03 Jun 2026) Samarkand → Tashkent by train
Our
17th day marked our return to Tashkent. As our train was scheduled to
depart in the evening, we had almost an entire day to explore more of
the magnificent city of Samarkand before continuing the final stage of
our Silk Road adventure.
After another enjoyable breakfast at
Hotel Maroqand, we took taxis to begin our final sightseeing tour of
this historic Silk Road city.
Our 1st destination was the Ulugh
Beg Observatory, one of the most important astronomical centres of the
15th century. Built by the renowned astronomer and ruler Mirzo Ulugh
Beg, the observatory was centuries ahead of its time. Although much of
the original structure has disappeared, the underground section of its
enormous sextant still survives, demonstrating the remarkable scientific
achievements of the Timurid era. We also visited the adjoining museum,
where exhibits explain Ulugh Beg's pioneering work in astronomy and
mathematics.
Our 2nd stop was the magnificent Gur-e-Amir
Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), the great
conqueror who established the Timurid Empire. The elegant blue dome,
intricate mosaics, and richly decorated interior make it one of
Uzbekistan's most treasured architectural masterpieces.
The 3rd
stop we visited was Amir Temur Park, a pleasant public park dedicated to
the nation's greatest historical figure. The beautifully landscaped
gardens and impressive monument provided a peaceful place to relax while
watching local residents enjoying their daily activities.
Our
4th stop was a return to the iconic Registan Square. Having visited it
previously at night during the spectacular light show, we were now able
to admire the magnificent madrasahs in broad daylight. Their intricate
blue mosaics, towering arches, and elegant domes appeared even more
impressive under the bright summer sunshine, allowing us to appreciate
the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Timurid Renaissance.
Our
5th stop was the historic Ruhobod Complex, whose origins date back to
the 14th century and which was later expanded during the 18th and 19th
centuries. The peaceful mausoleum and surrounding buildings offered
another glimpse into Samarkand's rich religious and architectural
heritage.
Our final sightseeing destination was the Chorsu Art
Gallery (Chorsu Galereyasi), where local artists displayed paintings,
ceramics, textiles, and traditional handicrafts. It was an excellent
place to appreciate Uzbekistan's artistic traditions and purchase a few
final souvenirs before leaving Samarkand.
At about 5:00 p.m., we
returned to Hotel Maroqand to collect our luggage before heading to
Samarkand Railway Station for our evening train back to Tashkent.
What
happened next became one of the most unexpected moments of our
journey. When we presented our return tickets, we were shocked to
discover that seven members of our group had mistakenly been issued
tickets for the 8:00 a.m. train, while only three members held the
correct tickets for the 8:00 p.m. departure. We had all purchased our
tickets together on Day 13, so it was clear that an error had occurred
at the ticket office.
Naturally, we were shocked and worried. We
explained to the railway staff that all the tickets had been bought at
the same time and that the morning departure had clearly been issued in
error. The language barrier made the situation even more stressful, and
for a while we were unsure whether we would be able to return to
Tashkent that night.
Despite the language barrier, we patiently
explained the situation to the railway staff. Fortunately, a customer
service officer who spoke excellent English came to our assistance. She
carefully reviewed our booking, understood what had happened, and worked
tirelessly to help us resolve the problem.
Thanks to her
kindness and professionalism, new tickets were issued for all seven
passengers on the 8:24 p.m. train. It was a tremendous relief, and we
were deeply grateful for her patience and willingness to help.
Our
train departed on schedule, and after a comfortable journey of just
over three hours, we arrived safely in Tashkent at around past midnight.
From the station, we made our way to the Hotel Marmaris Saray, where we
checked in and settled down for our final few nights in Uzbekistan.
The
day reminded us that even when unexpected travel problems arise, a
little patience—and the kindness of helpful strangers—can quickly turn a
stressful situation into another memorable story from the road.
17th night accommodation: Hotel Marmaris Saray, Tashkent, Uzbekistan +998 95 427 88 88
After an enjoyable breakfast, we took taxis to begin our final sightseeing tour of historic Silk Road city.
After breakfast at Hotel Maroqand, we took taxis to begin our final sightseeing tour of Samarkand.
Mirzo Ulugbek statue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, depicting the medieval ruler and astronomer seated in traditional attire with a scroll in hand. The monument honors his contributions to astronomy and his role in the founding of the Ulugh Beg Observatory.
Mirzo Ulugbek statue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Our 1st destination was the Ulugh Beg Observatory, one of the most important astronomical centres of the 15th century. Built by the renowned astronomer and ruler Mirzo Ulugh Beg, the observatory was centuries ahead of its time. Although much of the original structure has disappeared, the underground section of its enormous sextant still survives, demonstrating the remarkable scientific achievements of the Timurid era. We also visited the adjoining museum, where exhibits explain Ulugh Beg's pioneering work in astronomy and mathematics.
The Museum at Ulugh Beg Observatory. Built in the 1420s, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its astronomical instruments and stunning Islamic architecture.
The portrait of Mirzo Ulugʻbek, the 15th-century Uzbek astronomer, mathematician, and geographer, dressed in elaborate robes and holding a scroll. He is renowned for his contributions to astronomy, including the construction of the world's first major observatory in Samarkand.
A hand drum is traditionally used in ceremonial and spiritual contexts at the Ulugh Beg Museum.
A Fragment of the Observatory, most probably of a pillar at the Ulugh Beg Observatory Museum.
A traditional stringed instrument displayed alongside other cultural artifacts at the Ulugh Beg Museum.
A vibrant Suzani textile from Uzbekistan, featuring intricate concentric circles and floral motifs.
Cosmic scene featuring a detailed mechanical model of an armillary sphere.
The image is accompanied by a quote from Islam Karimov emphasizing the importance of children being stronger, better educated, and happier than adults.
A massive optical telescope housed in a distinctive cylindrical building with a domed roof.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev standing in front of the Uzbekistan flag, accompanied by an official address in Uzbek. The text outlines his commitment to political stability, youth engagement, and national development in Uzbekistan.
A Ptolemaic armillary sphere crafted from wood and metal, displayed on a wooden stand with a sign indicating it is a protected cultural heritage object. The armillary sphere, an ancient astronomical instrument, was used to model the apparent motions of the stars and planets.
A Ptolemaic armillary sphere crafted from wood and metal, displayed on a wooden stand.
A Fragment Of The Observatory Found During The 1908 Excavation.
A wooden spinning wheel model, featuring a circular frame with multiple arms and a central pivot point.
Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand – Gate to the Quadrant.
Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand – Gate to the Quadrant.
Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand – Gate to the Quadrant.
Although much of the original Ulugh Beg Observatory structure has
disappeared, the underground section of its enormous sextant still
survives, demonstrating the remarkable scientific achievements of the
Timurid era. We also visited the adjoining museum, where exhibits
explain Ulugh Beg's pioneering work in astronomy and mathematics.
A modern Sundial near the Ulugh Beg Observatory.
A white GAZ-21 Volga taxi, a classic Soviet-era sedan with chrome detailing and a vintage cab.
Our 2nd stop was the magnificent Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.
Our 2nd stop was the magnificent Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur (Tamerlane), the great conqueror who established the Timurid Empire. The elegant blue dome, intricate mosaics, and richly decorated interior make it one of Uzbekistan's most treasured architectural masterpieces.
Main gate of Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.
View of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum from the right side.
View of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum from the right side.
View of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum from the back side.
View of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum from the back side.
View of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum from the back side.
Our 3rd stop, we visited Amir Temur Park, a pleasant public park dedicated to the nation's greatest historical figure. The beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive monument provided a peaceful place to relax while watching local residents enjoying their daily activities.
Two large golden tiger statues lying side by side in Amir Temur Park in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The park is a popular tourist destination known for its historical landmarks, including the Registan Square and the mausoleum of Amir Temur.
Two large golden tiger statues lying side by side in Amir Temur Park in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
A bronze statue of four seated musicians playing traditional instruments.
At our 4th stop, we returned once more to the iconic Registan Square. Having visited it previously at night during the spectacular light show, we were now able to admire the magnificent madrasahs in broad daylight. Their intricate blue mosaics, towering arches, and elegant domes appeared even more impressive under the bright summer sunshine, allowing us to appreciate the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Timurid Renaissance.
The Sher-Dor Madrasah at the heart of Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, with its ornate turquoise dome and intricately patterned walls. The madrasah, built in the 15th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the city's rich Islamic architectural heritage.
Minaret of Sher Dor Madrasah in Registan square.
The Islam Karimov Memorial in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, featuring a bronze statue of the former president standing atop a tall red stone pedestal.
A woman releasing a pink dove into the air, accompanied by two men and a young child.
Amir Timur Monument in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, depicting the famed conqueror seated on a throne. The statue, erected in 1996, commemorates Timur’s role in founding the Timurid Empire and is a prominent landmark in the city.
Our 5th stop was the historic Ruhobod Complex, whose origins date back to the 14th century and which was later expanded during the 18th and 19th centuries. The peaceful mausoleum and surrounding buildings offered another glimpse into Samarkand's rich religious and architectural heritage.
Rukhobod Mausoleum, located near the Ruhabad Mosque in Samarkand, is an artisan center with around 15-20 charming shops within its courtyard. Built in 1380 and recently renovated, it is one of the oldest mausoleums in the city.
Rukhobod Mausoleum is one of Samarkand’s oldest mausoleums, which dates back to 1380. Inside lies the burial site of the renowned Islamic theologian and mystic Sheikh Burhan al-Din Sagarji.
Our final sightseeing destination was the Chorsu Art Gallery (Chorsu Galereyasi), where local artists displayed paintings, ceramics, textiles, and traditional handicrafts. It was an excellent place to appreciate Uzbekistan's artistic traditions and purchase a few final souvenirs before leaving Samarkand.
Two ancient vessels side by side, each with a rounded body and a narrow neck, at the Chorsu Art Gallery.
Four ancient vessels are displayed in the Chorsu Art Gallery.
Islamic astronomical diagram depicting the apparent motion of celestial bodies around the Earth, accompanied by Arabic text. Such diagrams were used in medieval Islamic scholarship to explain planetary motion and to support astronomical theories.
"The Wonders of Creation and the Curiosities of Existence" by Zakariya ibn Muhammad al-Qazwini depicts the constellation of Sagittarius and Capricorn in a richly detailed Persian miniature style.
Scholars are engaged in study, with one figure examining a globe while others read from open books.
Abd al-Rahmān al-Sūfī depicts the constellation Centaurus, with stars marked by Arabic numerals and a human figure holding a bouquet of flowers.
A treatise on medicine, philosophy, and theology, reflecting the intellectual traditions of the 13th century.
The global trade routes of the Age of Exploration, showing the movement of goods, people, and ideas across continents from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Green arrows indicate the direction of trade, highlighting the interconnectedness of European, Asian, African, and American markets during this period.
A carved wooden bench with intricate hand-painted designs, lions, architectural motifs, and figures.
Ulugh Beg is seated on a richly decorated carpet, surrounded by attendants and courtiers in a vividly detailed court scene. The artwork, likely from the 15th century, reflects the opulent court life of the Timurid ruler and his court in Samarkand.
Traditional wooden floor loom in use, with colorful woven textiles hanging from its heddles.
Hexagonal hand-painted wooden side tables adorned with intricate floral and geometric motifs.
An Oftoba is a traditional Middle Eastern pitcher with a long, graceful spout and a rounded body.
An Oftoba is a traditional Middle Eastern pitcher with a long, graceful spout and a rounded body.
The teacher of Mirzo Ulugbek - Mavlono Muhammad Olim.
A scholar and friend of Alisher Navoi. Part of the Herat literary circle in the late 15th century. Likely a teacher/student at one of Herat’s madrasas, possibly Madrasa Khoja Khurd or nearby madrasas where Navoi studied.
The teacher of Mirzo Ulugbek - Alisher Navoi.
Great Chagatai Turkic poet, writer, statesman. He studied in Herat, Mashhad, and Samarkand. In Herat he was part of the intellectual circle around Sultan Husayn Bayqara. Navoi had close friends and teachers in Herat’s madrasas. One of his close friends was Mavlono Muhammad Olim — they studied together and were part of the same literary/scholarly circle.
The teacher of Mirzo Ulugbek - Madrasa Khoja Khurd.
"Khoja Khurd" means "Little Khoja". In Herat, there was a Madrasa of Khoja Khurd / Khwaja Khurd during the Timurid period. It was one of the well-known madrasas where scholars and poets studied. It was near the literary circle of Herat in the 15th century.
The teacher of Mirzo Ulugbek - Madrasa Khoja Khurd - Alisher Navoi - Mavlono Muhammad Olim.
A detailed model of the Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand, featuring intricate geometric and floral tilework. The 15th-century astronomical instrument, built by the Timurid ruler Ulugh Beg, is renowned for its precision in measuring the Earth's rotation and revolution.
A brass astrolabe adorned with intricate engraved patterns and inscriptions, including Arabic script. The instrument, likely from the Islamic world, was used for both astronomical observation and navigation purposes.
A display of Islamic metal ware, including ornate brass ewers, a perforated bowl, and a decorative pitcher.
At about 5:00 p.m., we returned to Hotel Maroqand to collect our luggage before heading to Samarkand Railway Station for our evening train back to Tashkent.
Saying goodbye to the staff of Hotel Maroqand before heading to Samarkand Railway Station.
Samarkand Railway Station for our evening train back to Tashkent.
When we presented our return tickets, we were shocked to discover that seven members of our group had mistakenly been issued tickets for the 8:00 a.m. train, while only three members held the correct tickets for the 8:00 p.m. departure. We had all purchased our tickets together on Day 13, so it was clear that an error had occurred at the ticket office.
Naturally, we were shocked and worried. We explained to the railway staff that all the tickets had been bought at the same time and that the morning departure had clearly been issued in error. The language barrier made the situation even more stressful, and for a while we were unsure whether we would be able to return to Tashkent that night.
Despite the language barrier, we patiently explained the situation to the railway staff. Fortunately, a customer service officer who spoke excellent English came to our assistance. She carefully reviewed our booking, understood what had happened, and worked tirelessly to help us resolve the problem.
Thanks to her kindness and professionalism, new tickets were issued for all ten passengers on the 8:24 p.m. train. It was a tremendous relief, and we were deeply grateful for her patience and willingness to help.
Our train departed on schedule, with a comfortable journey of just over three hours to Tashkent.
The day reminded us that even when unexpected travel problems arise, a little patience—and the kindness of helpful strangers—can quickly turn a stressful situation into another memorable story from the road.
Our train departed on schedule, and after a comfortable journey of just over three hours, we arrived safely in Tashkent at around past midnight. From the station, we made our way to the Hotel Marmaris Saray, where we checked in and settled down for our final few nights in Uzbekistan.
17th night accommodation: Hotel Marmaris Saray, Tashkent, Uzbekistan +998 95 427 88 88
17th night accommodation: Hotel Marmaris Saray, Tashkent, Uzbekistan +998 95 427 88 88
2026 Central Asia (Silk Road 2) Adventure
Kyrgyzstan • Uzbekistan • Tajikistan (18 May – 6 June 2026)
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