Khiva
Khiva, a delightful, small, walled city, is often overlooked on tours through the region but its labyrinth of side streets and small squares have a very particular charm that evokes the centuries of history the city has witnessed.
Dunhuang
Dunhuang is a fascinating city full of historical and cultural riches. The main highlight is Moago caves - known as the Cave of a Thousand Buddhas - which are home to fantastic Buddhist murals and art. There are nearly 500 caves and over 2000 coloured statues. Crescent Lake, a beautiful clear water lake set in a desert oasis is only a short drive away.
Xiahe
Xiahe attracts very few travellers but those who do make the journey will be rewarded with spectacular mountain views and the opportunity to visit the majestic 18th century Labrang Monastery. Founded in 1709, this is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside the Tibet Autonomous Region. You can learn the fascinating history of Tibetan Buddhism and discover the daily life of monks.
Turpan
Turpan is located in the Turpan Basin at the depth of 154 m below sea level and known sometimes as "Fire Land”, because it is the hottest city in China and one of the driest places in the world. Some of the places of interest are the ruins of Gaochang, Astana tombs and the Bezeklik Buddha caves which are decorated with wonderful murals.
Bukhara
One of the great trading cities along the Silk Road, Bukhara’s layout and architecture bring its past to life and make for a truly fascinating visit. During your visit you can stay in stunning boutique hotels that are perfectly located in the old town of medieval Bukhara.
Samarkand
The historic town of Samarkand lies at an ancient caravan crossroads and is a melting pot of world cultures. It was Tamerlaine’s capital and contains some of Asia’s most stunning architecture. There are plenty of traditional hotels to choose from, featuring classic Uzbek décor, that are close to
Bishkek
One of the great trading cities along the Silk Road, Bukhara’s layout and architecture bring its past to life and make for a truly fascinating visit. During your visit you can stay in stunning boutique hotels that are perfectly located in the old town of medieval Bukhara.
Merv
The magnificent archaeological site of Merv was once one of Central Asia’s most civilised cities and is referred to as the Pearl of the East. This is a vast site of 125 square kilometres and due to its location along the Great Silk Road Route, several cities have existed on the site of current Merv.
Almaty
Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan and its largest city, is situated at the foot of the northern Tien Shan ridge - Zaili Alatau. Almaty was one of the ancient cities on the Great Silk Road, but this modern and bustling leafy city has plenty of sights to visit, such as Panflilov Park, Zenkov Russian Cathedral and the busy Zelyony (Green) Bazzar.
Tashkent
Tashkent is one of the oldest cities on the Great Silk Road between China and Europe and the capital of Uzbekistan. You will be able to explore the Old Quarter of Tashkent with its impressive Khast Imam Complex, wander around Chorsu Bazaar and take the metro to the city centre.
Kashgar
Kashgar is an oasis city in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in the far west of China. It has been an important trading centre since the days of the ancient Silk Road, where it was at the point of four branches of the Silk Road despite being surrounded by the mighty obstacles of the Pamir mountains and the Taklamakan desert.
