About this experience
For one day, we leave Uzbekistan to explore one of the most beautiful places in neighboring Tajikistan - Seven Lakes. But wait, this is not just a tour of the lakes! You will visit the oldest place in Central Asia - the settlement of Sarazm, which is 5500 years old. And you will also have a short tour of the ancient Penjikent and other places.
What to expect
Our route: Samarkand - Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border - Penjikent - Seven Lakes - Tajikistan-Uzbekistan border - Samarkand
Transfer from Samarkand will take you to the Tajikistan border, where our driver will be waiting to take you to Penjikent. The tour will start here.
Penjikent: ancient hospitality of Tajikistan
Penjikent was once the capital of the Sogdian Empire, the Zoroastrian civilization - long before Islam appeared in the region. While most people come to Tajikistan for trekking, this area has several ancient monuments worth visiting on the way to the mountains.
- Sarazm. Just steps away from the border crossing are the ruins of Sarazm, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is over 5000 years old! It was here that an incredibly tall human skeleton was found, named the 'Princess of Sarazm'.
- Penjikent Bazaar. You will appreciate the beautiful central building with brick arches. And of course, you can stock up on snacks for trekking and taste the hospitality of Tajikistan.
- Old Mosque and Madrasah of Olim Dodho
Seven Lakes, or Haft-Kul
Legend has it that the water bodies are the tears of the daughters of a missing man. Science, however, claims that they appeared after earthquakes changed the course of the Shing River. Whichever version you prefer, the road to Haft-Kul is one of the most accessible routes in Tajikistan, an ideal introduction to its natural beauty. In addition to the azure lakes, there are many villages to wander through: many kind local residents gladly invite travelers for tea.
We will only go as far as the sixth - the largest lake. Unfortunately, it is not possible to drive to the seventh lake by car.
Organizational details
- In most cases, I personally conduct this tour. But sometimes I involve local Tajik guides whom I know well and vouch for.
- Upon request, the tour can be conducted for a larger number of people with the rental of a minivan - details can be clarified in the correspondence
What's included in the price
- Transfer from your hotel in Samarkand to the border and back
- Transfer on the territory of Tajikistan
- Guide-interpreter services
- Eco tax
Entrance tickets are additionally paid - maximum $15/person and lunch - in local establishments you can try authentic national cuisine
