Turkestan 2 Days Tour
About this tour
Discover the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan on a two-day journey through Turkistan and Otyrar — two of the most important historical and cultural centers of Central Asia. Explore ancient Silk Road cities, magnificent mausoleums, sacred pilgrimage sites, and UNESCO World Heritage monuments while experiencing authentic Kazakh traditions, local cuisine, and modern cultural attractions.
This tour combines centuries of history with contemporary experiences, offering a perfect introduction to Kazakhstan's rich heritage.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Туркестан, Казахстан
Meet your guide and begin the journey to the ancient city of Otyrar, located approximately 60 km from Turkistan. Once one of the greatest cities along the Silk Road, Otyrar was an important center of trade, science, and culture. Visit the archaeological site of Otyrar, followed by the sacred Arystan Bab Mausoleum and the beautiful Gaukhar Ana Mausoleum. Enjoy a traditional Kazakh lunch before checking in to your 4★ hotel. In the afternoon, continue exploring Turkistan's most iconic landmarks, including the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Khan's Palace and Khan Mosque, the underground Hilvet Mosque, and the historic Eastern Bathhouse. After dinner, enjoy one of Turkistan's spectacular cultural performances, either "Kyz Zhibek & Tolegen" or "Tomiris". Overnight in Turkistan.
Day 2: Туркестан, Казахстан
After breakfast, travel approximately 50 km to the sacred pilgrimage site of Ukasha Ata. Visit the Ukasha Ata Mausoleum, the legendary Ukasha Ata Well, the 1,000-year-old Majratut Tree, and the historic Shammat Ishan Madrasa. After lunch, return to Turkistan to visit the modern Visit Centre, the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Museum, the Al-Farabi Library, and the Crafts Center, where local artisans preserve traditional Kazakh craftsmanship. Conclude the tour at the impressive Karavansaray Tourist Complex, a modern destination inspired by the historic Silk Road. Transfer back. End of the tour.
What's included
• Two days of comfortable transportation • Professional English-speaking guide • One night accommodation in a 4★ hotel with breakfast • Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary • Two lunches and one dinner • Bonus: Flying Theatre ticket • Bonus: ANJA SPA access
• Boat ride • Personal expenses
Languages spoken
What to know
• This tour is available throughout the year. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most comfortable weather for sightseeing. • Summer temperatures in Turkistan can exceed +40°C. We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sufficient drinking water. • The itinerary includes visits to religious and sacred sites. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Clothing covering the shoulders and knees is recommended. Women may wish to bring a scarf for entering certain religious sites, although it is not always mandatory. • Moderate walking is required during the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. • The order of visits may be adjusted due to weather conditions, public holidays, restoration work, traffic, or other operational circumstances without affecting the overall quality of the tour. • Accommodation is provided in a comfortable 4★ hotel based on double or twin occupancy. Single accommodation is available for an additional charge. • Flying Theatre and the evening show ("Kyz Zhibek & Tolegen" or "Tomiris") are subject to the operating schedule and availability. If a performance is unavailable, it may be replaced with an alternative cultural activity of equal value. • The boat ride at Karavansaray is optional and is not included in the tour price. • Meals included in the program feature traditional Kazakh cuisine. Please inform us in advance about any dietary restrictions, allergies, or special meal requirements. • Please carry your original passport or national ID card throughout the tour. • Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend arranging comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. • The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages and is designed for guests interested in history, culture, architecture, photography, and Kazakhstan's spiritual heritage. • Respect for cultural heritage sites is required. Please follow your guide's instructions and the regulations at each attraction to help preserve these unique historical monuments.
Route & locations
Туркестан, Казахстан