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Middle East
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Oceana
What’s new?
be inspired
why gil travel
Middle East
Western Europe
Eastern Europe
Latin America
Asia/ South Pacific/ Africa
North America
Oceana
Suitable for Family, Group, Senior
OVERVIEW
Embark on an extraordinary 7-day Bukharian Jews tour, tracing the 2,000-year-old Jewish heritage Uzbekistan has preserved—one of the oldest and most unique Jewish communities in the world. This trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the remnants of a vibrant culture that thrived amidst rich Silk Road Jewish history, visiting stunning UNESCO World Heritage cities that once housed massive, flourishing Jewish quarters.
Our journey begins in the spiritual heart of the community, Bukhara, where you will spend significant time exploring the narrow alleys of the Bukhara Jewish Quarter, visiting the ancient Magoki Attari Synagogue, and walking through the historic Jewish cemetery. This city provides the deepest look into the traditions, life, and unique architecture of this community before the mass emigration of the 20th century.
The comprehensive tour also takes us to the jewel of the Silk Road, Samarkand. While marveling at the awe-inspiring Registan Square and the mosaic work of the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis, you will experience a highlight Samarkand synagogue tour at the active Gumbaz Synagogue. Here, you will meet with the remaining local Jewish community, hearing their stories of life and perseverance amidst the remnants of ancient empires. Finally, in the capital, Tashkent, you will engage with the largest remaining community today, visiting the functioning Beit-Menachem Synagogue and the Jewish cultural center.
As a premier experience in kosher heritage travel Central Asia, this visit includes a crucial opportunity for community encounters, connecting with leaders and members to discuss the challenges and triumphs of maintaining their distinct identity. This journey is ideal for those seeking to uncover a little-known chapter of Jewish history, set against the backdrop of Central Asia’s most dazzling Islamic architecture.
Highlights*
*Some experiences are subject to minimum group size
Arrive at Tashkent International Airport (TAS) and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, your journey begins with an overview of Uzbekistan’s modern capital. You will visit the Amir Timur Square and the Independence Square, followed by a first look at the city’s Soviet-era architecture and its unique metro system. Conclude the day with a Welcome Dinner featuring Uzbek cuisine, preparing you for the historical depth of the week.
The morning focuses on the active Jewish community in Tashkent. You will visit the functioning Beit-Menachem Synagogue and the adjacent Jewish cultural center, where you will have a crucial opportunity for a community encounter with local leaders. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of maintaining the distinct Bukharian identity today. In the afternoon, dive into the capital’s history at the vast Chorsu Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s oldest markets, followed by an evening flight to the historic city of Bukhara.
Spend the entire day exploring Bukhara, the undisputed spiritual center of the Bukharian Jewish community. You will trace the history through the ancient Jewish Quarter, known for its narrow, winding alleys. Key visits include the ancient Magoki Attari Synagogue (believed to be one of Central Asia’s oldest), the Jewish Cemetery, and the surrounding historical monuments like the Lyab-i Hauz complex and the Poi Kalyan Minaret.
Continue your immersion in Bukhara’s heritage. The morning may include a meeting with a remaining Bukharian Jewish family or community members for an intimate look at their traditions and life stories. The afternoon is dedicated to the city’s stunning Islamic architecture, including the Samanid Mausoleum and the massive Chor Minor Madrasah. You will also visit local workshops to see traditional Bukharian crafts like gold embroidery and metalwork, highlighting the commercial role Jews played on the Silk Road.
After breakfast, depart for Samarkand (travel is typically via high-speed train, a scenic and efficient 1.5–2 hour journey). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and immediately begin exploring the crown jewel of the Silk Road: Registan Square. Marvel at the three magnificent, mosaic-covered madrasahs (Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori) that define this UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a stunning backdrop to the local Jewish history.
The morning focuses on Samarkand’s Jewish community. You will visit the active Gumbaz Synagogue and meet with local community members to discuss their history of coexistence with the Muslim population and the realities of modern life. The afternoon is dedicated to the imperial architecture of Samarkand, including the breathtaking tilework of the Shahi-Zinda Necropolis (Avenue of Mausoleums) and the massive Bibi-Khanym Mosque, constructed by Timur. Conclude the day with a Farewell Dinner celebrating the journey.
Enjoy a final Uzbek breakfast. Depending on the schedule, you may have time for a visit to the Afrosiab Museum to learn about the ancient history of Samarkand before the Arab conquest. You will then be transferred to Samarkand International Airport (SKD) or back to Tashkent (via train/flight, depending on outbound flight logistics) for your departure, concluding this extraordinary journey along the Silk Road.
Accommodation
Our hotel is a two-minute walk to the Rowing Canal and three kilometers to the heart of Silk Road Samarkand, the Eternal city.
Hyatt Regency Tashkent offers the quintessential location for both business and leisure travelers.
Conveniently nestled in the heart of downtown, eight kilometers from Bukhara International Airport (BHK), Wyndham Bukhara provides the state-of-the-art amenities and stellar service you expect from an international hotel brand.
*Star rating standards vary from country to country.
This experience is fully customizable. We will create your personal dream experience!
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