A three–day tour to Turkestan – one of the most ancient cities of Kazakhstan and the whole of Central Asia - will introduce you to the architecture and rich history of this region. The pearl of Turkestan is the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The mausoleum over the grave of the saint – almost 250 years after his death – was erected by Amir Timur himself. Not far from Turkestan is the medieval settlement of Otrar, which existed in the X-XII centuries. You will also visit the mausoleum of the Central Asian saint Arystan-Bab, the mausoleum of the daughter of Yassavi – Gauhar Ana, see the ancient settlement of Kultobe and the mausoleum of the companion of the Prophet Muhammad – Ukasha-ata.
Book a three-day tour to Turkestan and you will see the genuine East.
Tour itinerary:
Then you will visit the mausoleum of the Central Asian saint Arystan Bab, located near Otrar, 55 km from Turkestan. According to legend, the saint lived 340 years and was buried in the XII century. Among Muslims, this place is considered one of the main stages of pilgrimage to the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Arystan-Bab was a spiritual teacher and mentor of Ahmed Yassawi and an associate of the Prophet Muhammad.
After that, you will visit the mausoleum of Gauhar Ana. The daughter of the thinker and poet Khoja Ahmed Yassawi is buried here. She lived in the second half of the XII century and was known for the gift of healing. Residents of nearby areas came to Gauhar for help in getting rid of various bodily ailments. There is a legend that says that an underground passage was laid from the cell of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi to the tomb of Gauhar-Ana.
Arrival in Turkestan. Excursion to the largest tourist complex in Central Asia - "Karavansaray". From the moment you plunge into the enchanting atmosphere of the complex "Karavansaray", you will find yourself in a fascinating fairy tale that glorifies the great history, culture and eternal romance of Kazakhstan! Participants of the tour will visit the onlynon-8D cinema in Kazakhstan "Altyn Samruk" (Golden Phoenix), the "flying theater" will go on a journey through time and space with the mythical bird Samruk (Phoenix bird) to the origins of Kazakh culture. The effect of immersion in 8D The format will take you on a fantastic flight over the sights of Kazakhstan! Those who wish can ride gondolas.
The tour ends with a magical parade of boats "Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen" (story of lovers) on the harbor of the complex. Return to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Then you will visit the ancient settlement of Kultobe (XII century). Four most important periods of the history of Kazakhstan are presented here: Kangyu (IV century), early Medieval (VIII-IX century), medieval (X-XII century) and the period of the Kazakh Khanate (XVI-XIX century).
Then you will visit the memorial to the 21st Kazakh Khan and the Altyn Samruk flying theater on the territory of the caravanserai, which has no analogues in Central Asian countries. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Price includes:
- All transfer based on the itinerary;
- Two nights accommodation at the hotel, breakfast included;
- Service of the local English-speaking guide;
- Entrance tickets to the sites.
- Bottled water 1l per day.
Price doesn't include:
- Personal expenses;
- Souvenirs;
- Medical insurance;
- Air tickets before and after the tour.