“The city of Islamic scholarly study”.
Where is Samarkand?
The city of Samarkand is located in northeastern Uzbekistan, in the Zarefshan River valley. Samarkand had a central position on the Silk Road between China and the West.
Getting there
Our journey from Bukhara to Samarkand was on the train.
Our accommodation
The time we spent in Samarkand, we chose to stay at The Trip.LE Guesthouse.
A Guesthouse with hostel dorms as well. The room we stayed in was dated and could have been cleaner. A communal breakfast was provided and luggage storage is available. A 15 min walk to Registan.
Places of interest
Registan
The Registan was a public square, where executions and royal proclamations took place. Three madrasahs, the Ulugh Beg Madrasah, the Tilya-Kori Madrasah, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah line three sides of the square. Each with distinctive Islamic architecture. Entry is 40,000 Som per person.
Definitely visit at night there is a speculator show.
Gur Emir Mausoleum
Visit the tomb of Tamerlane in this beautifully reconstructed Mausoleum. Reflect on his life whilst admiring the largest piece of jade in the world. Entry is 25,000 Som per person.
Rukhobod Mausoleum
Resting place of Tamerlane’s religious advisor. The tombstones of the sheikh, his wife, and ten children are arranged in the centre of the room.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque
One of the most important monuments in Samarkand was one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world.
Ulugh Beg Observatory
An observatory built by the Timurid astronomer Ulugh Beg. Considered by scholars to have been one of the finest observatories in the Islamic world.
Siab Bazaar
A large local agricultural market. Selling vegetables and fruits grown in Uzbekistan, hand-made products, spices and dried fruits, sweets and nuts, bread, and cakes. All laid out in long neat rows. The bright colours and smells are a delight to the senses.
Hazrat Khizr Mosque
Cross the footbridge from the bazaar to get to this mosque. Being located on a hill which allows a mesmerizingly panoramic view of the city and its architectural jewels.
Muslim Cemetary
Past the mosque and up the hill on the right-hand side is the Muslim Cemetary. Definitely worth a quick look to see the magnificent headstones.
