Day 3

• After breakfast, your third day takes you to explore the heart of Samarkand, starting with the impressive Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the tomb of the great conqueror Tamerlane, also known as King Timur. This mausoleum, with its blue dome and rich interior decorations, is one of the finest examples of Timurid architecture, dating back to the early 15th century.
• Then, you’ll head to Samarkand’s crown jewel and center of the Timurid Renaissance: Registan Square, also UNESCO-protected. This majestic ensemble of three madrasas (Islamic universities): Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori, symbolizes the city’s power and grandeur. The complex also includes the Shaybanids Mausoleum and, to the northeast, the Chorsu, the ancient bazaar with its impressive dome.
• Your next stop will be the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, built in honor of Tamerlane’s favorite wife. Its size and design are a testament to the height of the Timurid empire. Construction began in the late 14th century and was completed in the early 15th century. At its peak, it was considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the Islamic world.
• Then, you’ll stroll through the alleys of the Siyob Bazaar, Samarkand’s largest market, where you can buy local products like dried fruits, spices, and textiles.
• In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Konigil Meros paper factory in Konigil, where you’ll learn about the traditional process of paper making using ancient techniques dating back to the time of Tamerlane.
• In the evening, another delightful dinner awaits at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy more Uzbek dishes, such as lagman.