Day tour to Shahrisabz

Depart from Samarkand to Shahrisabz, driving through the scenic Zerafshan and Gissar mountain ranges. On the way, we pass a well-known location where Yugoslav filmmakers once shot scenes for a classic “Apache” movie. Enjoy panoramic views of mountain passes, dramatic landscapes, and traditional villages.

Visit the remains of the grand Ak Saray Palace, the former summer residence of Amir Temur. Ak Saray means “White Palace,” while “ak” also conveys generous, aristocratic, and majestic.

According to Temur’s chronicler Sharaf ad-Din Ali Yazdi, the world had never seen such a structure, its peak reaching from earth to the heavens. The Spanish ambassador Ruy González de Clavijo reported that decoration works were still ongoing in 1404. The palace’s scale is still visible in its entrance towers, once 50 meters high with an arch spanning 22 meters. The palace was destroyed in the 16th century by order of Abdullah Khan, ruler of Bukhara.

Shahrisabz – Dorus Saodat Complex

Explore the Dorus Saodat Complex (“Repository of Power”), the dynastic burial site of the Timurid family. The complex included a prayer hall, mosque, and accommodations for scholars and pilgrims. The white-marble façade and the mausoleum of Jahangir are remarkable examples of Timurid architecture.

Shahrisabz – Dorus Tilovat Complex Visit the Dorus Tilovat Ensemble, built mainly during the reign of Ulugbek. This complex contains the graves of Temur’s father Taragay and his spiritual mentor Sheikh Shamsaddin Kulyal.

Visit the Crypt of Temur, discovered in 1963 behind the Jahangir Mausoleum. The underground chamber is simple, decorated with Quranic inscriptions. A stone sarcophagus believed to have been prepared for Temur stands at the center, although he was eventually buried in the Gur-Emir Mausoleum in Samarkand.

Visit local shops offering handmade suzanis and traditional crafts.

Lunch at the Top of the Mountains (Optional)Stop at a mountain pass teahouse or restaurant located at the top of the mountains. Lunch is optional and can be arranged according to guests’ preferences, with time to enjoy the panoramic views.

After Lunch

Stop at the Mountain Bazaar

After lunch (or free time at the pass), stop at a traditional mountain bazaar, where local vendors sell dried fruits, nuts, honey, spices, and handmade souvenirs.

Continue the drive back to Samarkand, enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery along the way.