L-R: Chia Kok Bin, Ronnie Chin Keng Kok, Joanne Tan Pheck San, Nancy Ho Siew Cheng, Law Chew Siah, Chan Hew Ley, Clara Leong Sook Wah, Ng Yoke Ping, Chew Leng Soon, Ching Neng Bin.
Day 14 (31 May 2026) Samarkand - Day trip to Bukhara and back by train
Our 14th day was an exciting full-day excursion from Samarkand to the ancient Silk Road city of Bukhara, travelling approximately 250 km each way by regular train. Once one of the most important trading centres along the Silk Road, Bukhara served as a vital crossroads linking China and Central Asia with Persia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean world.
To catch the early morning train, we had to forgo breakfast at Hotel Maroqand. We left the hotel at 4:30 a.m. and headed to Samarkand Railway Station. Our train departed punctually at 5:37 a.m., and after a comfortable three-hour journey through the Uzbek countryside, we arrived in Bukhara at 8:33 a.m.
At Bukhara railway station, our group hired two vehicles with local drivers for the entire day—an MPV for six passengers and a sedan for the remaining four. The cost was remarkably reasonable at US$10 per person, giving us the flexibility to explore the city's many historical treasures at our own pace.
Our first stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch before beginning our exploration of one of Central Asia's most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage cities.
Throughout the day, we visited many of Bukhara's most famous landmarks, each reflecting the city's rich history as a centre of trade, religion, scholarship, and Islamic architecture.
Our sightseeing included:
1. Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant that offers a glimpse into traditional Bukharan life.
2. Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara, combining traditional Uzbek craftsmanship with European influences.
3. Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns reflected in the nearby pool.
4. The imposing Ark Citadel, the ancient fortress that served as the seat of Bukhara's rulers for centuries.
5. Shukhov Water Tower, an interesting example of early twentieth-century engineering.
6. The magnificent Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and the historic Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, one of the most iconic architectural complexes in Uzbekistan.
7. The Trading Domes, where merchants have traded silk, carpets, jewellery, spices, and handicrafts since the days of the Silk Road.
8. Labi House Restaurant, where we enjoyed lunch accompanied by a refreshing cold beer while escaping the afternoon heat.
9. Kukeldash Madrasah a beautifully preserved monuments surrounding the famous Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
10. Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, another beautifully preserved monuments surrounding the famous Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
11. Nadir Divan-Begi Khanaka,
12. The distinctive Chor Minor, easily recognised by its four elegant turquoise-domed towers, one of Bukhara's most photographed landmarks.
As the afternoon progressed, the temperature climbed to an intense 40°C, making it the hottest day of our entire Central Asian adventure. Despite the scorching heat, we continued exploring the city's remarkable architectural treasures, taking frequent breaks to rest and rehydrate.
By late afternoon, we returned to the railway station to board the 4:55 p.m. fast train back to Samarkand. After another comfortable two-hour journey, we arrived at around 7:00 p.m.
Hungry after our busy day, we headed straight to our favourite Café Punjab Indian Restaurant, where we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner while reminiscing about the magnificent monuments we had visited. Tired but deeply satisfied, we returned to Hotel Maroqand, looking forward to the next day's adventure as our Silk Road journey continued.
14th night accommodation: Hotel Marokand, 141.Chorraha Street, Samarkand +998 99 703 82 02 
To catch the early morning train, we had to forgo breakfast at Hotel Maroqand. We left the hotel at 4:30 a.m. and headed to Samarkand Railway Station.
At Samarkand Railway Station, we met other Malaysians who were also traveling Central Asia.
At Samarkand Railway Station, waiting for our train to arrive.
Uzbekistan Railways train car with the national emblem above the number plate.
State Emblem of Uzbekistan, featuring a white eagle with outstretched wings, a sun rising over mountains, and symbolic elements such as wheat, cotton, and the national flag.
Our train tickets. Our train departed punctually at 5:37 a.m., and after a comfortable three-hour journey through the Uzbek countryside, we arrived in Bukhara at 8:33 a.m.
The narrow corridor of the train.
Views along the railroad track from Samarkand to Bukhara.
Views along the railroad track from Samarkand to Bukhara.
Views along the railroad track from Samarkand to Bukhara.
Views along the railroad track from Samarkand to Bukhara.
We arrived in Bukhara at 8:33 a.m.
We arrived in Bukhara at 8:33 a.m.
We arrived in Bukhara at 8:33 a.m.
Magnolia grandiflora in full bloom, its large white petals unfurling.
Magnolia grandiflora in full bloom, its large white petals unfurling.
Bukhara was the dome of Islam, a religious pillar, a spiritual powerhouse, and the most intact historical city in the ancient East.
For ages, Bukhara was known for its diverse madrasas (Islamic schools), which drew the best minds from the east with their cultural and commercial vitality.
Time Lunch Best Beer Hostel, a single-story white building with red signage advertising its meals and drinks, is located beside the train station.
At the railway station, our group hired two vehicles with local drivers
for the entire day—an MPV for six passengers and a sedan for the
remaining four. The cost was remarkably reasonable at US$10 per person,
giving us the flexibility to explore the city's many historical
treasures at our own pace.
Our 1st stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch before beginning our exploration of one of Central Asia's most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage cities.
Our 1st stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch.
Our 1st stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch.
Our 1st stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch.
Our 1st stop was Shirin Café, where we enjoyed a hearty brunch.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant that offers a glimpse into traditional Bukharan life.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, a beautifully restored home.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, a beautifully restored home.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, a beautifully restored home.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, a beautifully restored home.
Our 2nd stop was Fayzulla Khodjaev House, a beautifully restored home.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a
wealthy merchant that offers a glimpse into traditional Bukharan life.
A stone well with a circular metal grate, set into a cobblestone courtyard surrounded by brick steps.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House features a wall lined with finely carved wooden doors.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House has elaborate floral and geometric tile-work around arched timber windows.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House has elaborate floral and geometric tile-work around arched timber windows.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
Featuring intricate floral motifs arranged in a repeating triangular pattern.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
Plate decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate rose motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
Vase decorated with intricate motifs, floral patterns, figures, and traditional Chinese scenes. 
A bronze sculpture of a lion and a lioness in a dynamic struggle, in the Fayzulla Khodjaev House.
The beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant Fayzulla Khodjaev.
The ornate interior dome of the Fayzulla Khodjaev House, adorned with intricate geometric patterns.
The ornate floral wall paintings inside the Fayzulla Khodjaev House in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.
The ornate floral wall paintings inside the Fayzulla Khodjaev House in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.
A vintage Singer sewing machine displayed inside the Fayzulla Khodjaev House in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.
An ornate wooden chest, displayed on a wooden stand atop a patterned rug. 
The portrait painting of Fayzulla Khodjaev.
A display of antique household items, including a cast-iron stove and an ironing board.
A traditional stone kitchen with earthenware pots, a clay oven, and rustic cooking utensils arranged on a cobblestone floor.
A traditional stone kitchen with earthenware pots, a clay oven, and rustic cooking utensils.
A large, copper pot with ornate handles, placed on a stone floor.
A traditional wooden mortar and pestle, crafted from weathered wood and placed in a corner near a wooden door. These tools are commonly used in rural kitchens to grind grains, spices, and other ingredients.
A jug made of copper, featuring intricate floral and geometric engravings and a curved handle.
Antique copper water jug.
A traditional samovar, a large metal tea urn with ornate handles and a spout.
Silver Betel Box with intricate floral and geometric patterns.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Vintage gramophone horn with its distinctive flared shape and floral-patterned surface.
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
Fayzulla Khodjaev House, the beautifully preserved residence of a wealthy merchant
A decorative oil lamp with floral enamel detailing at the Fayzulla Khodjaev House.
A cluster of unripe green grapes growing on a vine in the garden of the Fayzulla Khodjaev House.
A cluster of unripe green grapes growing on a vine in the garden of the Fayzulla Khodjaev House.
Our 3rd stop was Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara, combining traditional Uzbek craftsmanship with European influences.
The ornate entrance of the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, adorned with intricate blue and red tilework and arched windows. The palace, located near the historic Old City, is a notable example of Uzbekistan’s rich architectural heritage.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara. The main palace consists of several rooms, each designed with a unique theme. Furniture, porcelain vases, rugs, carpets, household objects, and more are displayed in each room, which is adorned in a distinct style. This section shows the incorporation of the Russian style along with the traditional Bukhara style.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace Courtyard.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Interior decoration of one of the rooms displaying classic themes.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the lavish summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara.
The decoration of the national cradle on display at the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace.
The vividly painted vaulted ceiling inside the Sitorai Mohi-Khosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, featuring intricate geometric patterns and rich jewel tones. The summer palace, once the residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, is celebrated for its elaborate interior design and historical significance.
A bronze equestrian statue of Ermak Zhurak, displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
A bronze equestrian statue of Henri IV of France, displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
A stone lion statue guarding the entrance to the Sitorai-i-Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. The ornate structure, built in the 19th century, is renowned for its intricate geometric tilework and serves as a symbol of the city's cultural heritage.
The ornate interior of the Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, featuring intricate geometric tilework and a grand chandelier. The palace, built in the 19th century, is renowned for its elaborate Islamic art and serves as a cultural heritage site.
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Items displayed at Sitorai Mohi-Hosa Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
The other building showcases clothing, shoes, embroidery, etc.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional footwear from different eras on display.
Traditional footwear from different eras on display.
Traditional footwear from different eras on display.
Traditional footwear from different eras on display.
Beautifully decorated walls and ceiling.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Traditional clothes from different eras on display.
Beautifully decorated walls and ceiling.
Beautifully decorated walls and ceiling.
Beautifully decorated walls and ceiling.
Beautifully decorated walls and ceiling.
Traditional silver and coral necklaces displayed in a museum setting.
Traditional silver and coral necklaces displayed in a museum setting.
A gold-toned belt buckle adorned with intricate turquoise and green gemstone inlays.
Embroidered Turkmen Tekke skullcaps, each featuring bold geometric patterns and vibrant colors. 
Bust of Usta Shirin Murodov at the palace.
Beautiful grapevines at Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace.
The large water pool at Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace.
Harem along with the large water pool at Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace.
Porcelain plates imported from around the world on display.
Porcelain plates imported from around the world on display.
Porcelain vases imported from around the world on display.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace in Bukhara.
Our 4th stop was the Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns reflected in the nearby pool. Bolo
Hauz Mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, with its ornate brickwork, arched
colonnade, and intricate wooden ceiling details. The historic mosque is
part of a larger complex that includes a mausoleum and a pool,
reflecting the city's rich Islamic heritage.
Our 4th stop was the Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns reflected in the nearby pool.
Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns.
Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns.
Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns.
Registan Square was once home to several spectacular buildings. The Bolo-Hauz ensemble is located in Registan Square, opposite the Ark Fortress. The Bolo-Hauz ensemble was created at the beginning of the 18th century and is considered a youthful construction when compared to other Bukhara monuments. The mosque consists of a minaret and the mosque itself, which are reflected in the waters of the pond (hauz) that has been preserved to this day.
Bolo Hauz Mosque and Minaret, renowned for its elegant wooden columns.
The name Bolo-hauz, which means "children's pool" in Uzbek, derives from this pond.
Our 5th stop was at the main gate of the Ark Citadel in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, framed by its massive brick walls and two prominent towers. The historic fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as a strategic and cultural center for centuries.
Our 5th stop was at the main gate of the Ark Citadel in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Our 5th stop was at the main gate of the Ark Citadel in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Our 5th stop was at the main gate of the Ark Citadel in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Our 6th visit was the Shukhov Tower in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, a stunning example of Constructivist design including a lattice steel structure and a glass observation deck. Originally a water tower, it is now a renowned tourist attraction with panoramic views of the city.
Our 7th visit was the magnificent Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and the historic Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, one of the most iconic architectural complexes in Uzbekistan.
The magnificent Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and the historic Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, is one of the most iconic architectural complexes in Uzbekistan.
The Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah,
The Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah,
The Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah,
The Poi-Kalyan Ensemble, comprising the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah,
Mir-i-Arab Madrasah in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, with its striking turquoise domes and intricate blue-and-gold tilework. Built in the 15th century, the madrasah is one of the city's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mir-i-Arab Madrasah in Bukhara, with its striking turquoise domes and intricate blue-and-gold tilework.
Mir-i-Arab Madrasah in Bukhara, with its striking turquoise domes and intricate blue-and-gold tilework.
Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.
The entrance of the Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara, adorned with intricate blue and turquoise tilework.
The entrance of the Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara, adorned with intricate blue and turquoise tilework.
Kalyan Minaret in Bukhara, a towering brick structure adorned with intricate geometric patterns and colorful tilework near the top. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city and a symbol of its rich Islamic heritage.
Kalyan Minaret in Bukhara, a towering brick structure adorned with intricate geometric patterns.
Kalyan Minaret in Bukhara, a towering brick structure adorned with intricate geometric patterns.
Pavilion Kalaon building in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.
Pavilion Kalaon building in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, showcases its traditional brick architecture with arched windows and a central entrance. The structure is part of the city's historic center, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.
Walking to the historic Trading Domes.
Our 8th visit was to the historic Trading Domes, where merchants have traded silk, carpets, jewellery, spices, and handicrafts since the days of the Silk Road.
Merchants selling goods at the historic Trading Domes.
Merchants selling goods at the historic Trading Domes.
The weather is very hot, all taking a rest with ice cream sponsored by Chew Leng Soon.
Our 9th stop was for Food and beer at Labi House, a restaurant with a bright yellow facade and a cartoon mascot above the name. Outdoor seating surrounds the entrance, suggesting a casual dining atmosphere.
Labi House for lunch, accompanied by a refreshing cold beer while escaping the afternoon heat.
Labi House for lunch, accompanied by a refreshing cold beer while escaping the afternoon heat.
Our 10th stop was at Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments surrounding the famous Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments.
Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments.
Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments.
Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments.
Kukeldash Madrasah and Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, two beautifully preserved monuments.
Our 11th stop was at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautifully preserved monument surrounding the famous Lyabi-Hauz Plaza. It was built between 1622 and 1623 by Nadir
Devanbegi, the minister of Bukhara Khan, Imam Quli Khan. 
Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautifully preserved monument surrounding Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautifully preserved monument surrounding Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautifully preserved monument surrounding Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah, a beautifully preserved monument surrounding Lyabi-Hauz Plaza.
The Monument to Hodja Nasreddin is a beloved bronze sculpture in the historic center of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Installed in 1979 by sculptor Yakov Shapiro, it sits by the vibrant Lyabi-Khauz square and depicts the famous folkloric wit riding a small donkey.
Our 12th stop was the Nadir Divan-begi Khanqah. The Nadir Divan-begi Khanqah is a 17th-century Sufi lodge located at the historic Lyab-i Hauz ensemble in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Built between 1619 and 1623 by vizier Nadir Divan-begi, it served as a spiritual place for prayer and residence.
Our 12th stop was the Nadir Divan-begi Khanqah.
Our 12th stop was the Nadir Divan-begi Khanqah.
Our 13th stop was the distinctive Chor Minor, easily recognised by its four elegant turquoise-domed towers, one of Bukhara's most photographed landmarks.
Chor Minor, alternatively known as the Madrasah of Khalif Niyaz-kul, is a historic gatehouse for a now-destroyed madrasa in the historic city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. It is located in a lane northeast of the Lyab-i Hauz complex.
Chor Minor, alternatively known as the Madrasah of Khalif Niyaz-kul
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
Window shopping in shops located beside Chor Minor.
By late afternoon, we returned to the railway station to board the 4:55 p.m. fast train back to Samarkand. After another comfortable two-hour journey, we arrived at around 7:00 p.m.
ABS Ekspress Train from Bukhara to Samarkand at 4.55pm.
As the afternoon progressed, the temperature climbed to an intense 40°C, making it the hottest day of our entire Central Asian adventure. Despite the scorching heat, we continued exploring the city's remarkable architectural treasures, taking frequent breaks to rest and rehydrate.
Hungry after our busy day, we headed straight to our favourite Café Punjab Indian Restaurant.
Hungry after our busy day, we headed straight to our favourite Café Punjab Indian Restaurant, where we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner while reminiscing about the magnificent monuments we had visited. The veg biryani is delicious and should be shared between two people because of its enormous portion.
Tired but deeply satisfied, we returned to Hotel Maroqand, looking forward to the next day's adventure as our Silk Road journey continued.
The veg biryani is delicious and should be shared between two people because of its enormous portion.
2026 Central Asia (Silk Road 2) Adventure
Kyrgyzstan • Uzbekistan • Tajikistan (18 May – 6 June 2026)
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