Your morning begins with a tour of Almaty, situated at the foothills of the sweeping Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Known as the ‘City of Apple Trees’, Almaty owes its name to this fruit with Kazakh origins.
Meander through idyllic green avenues in the Panfilov Memorial Park, taking a moment to contemplate its imposing memorial to the ‘Panfilov Heroes’ – a group of 28 soldiers honoured for their efforts defending a village on the outskirts of Moscow during World War II. At the centre of the park stands the colourful Zenkov Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church constructed entirely with wood, even forgoing the use of nails.
Later, it’s time to board the Golden Eagle for your luxurious rail journey. Privately owned and meticulously designed, the Old-World majesty of this spectacular train is matched only by the unparalleled quality of its service and amenities. Travelling in an air-conditioned and heated private cabin, you’ll spend your time in supreme comfort between each exciting stop. Recline with a complimentary tea, coffee or mineral water and watch a film on your in-room TV, then freshen up with luxury toiletries in your private ensuite bathroom. Make your way to the restaurant car for a sumptuous meal prepared by the skilled team of onboard chefs, retire to the bar car for a refreshing drink with your travelling companions, then return to your cabin to slip into a plush bathrobe and slippers before a restful evening on the rails.
Cross into Kyrgyzstan and wake to spectacular scenery on your way to Lake Issyk Kul. Here, you’ll uncover fascinating stories of the region’s nomadic Kyrgyz people. Hear about life in a yurt, the mastery of crafts integral to survival, and the careful breeding and training of hardy horses to accompany travelling populations through notoriously harsh weather conditions.
Take a guided morning tour of the open-air Museum of Petroglyphs, where stone carvings tell the story of human cultures dating back more than 4,000 years. Many of these incredible pictures were carved by the Saka people, to whom this site was sacred. At the edge of the unfathomably deep lake, you’ll bear witness to the nearly thousand-year-old practice of eagle hunting at a special flight demonstration. Learn about the golden eagle (namesake of your rail journey) and the Kyrgyz tradition still carried by the region’s nomadic populations.
Back aboard the illustrious Golden Eagle, you’ll roll along to the capital of Bishkek, once used as a stopover by caravans along the far-reaching Silk Road. Hit the ground on an afternoon sightseeing tour to central Ala-Too Square, wandering through the Soviet history on display at the city’s local parks and witnessing the statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Conclude your jaunt through Bishkek at the Memorial for Red Guards in peaceful Oak Park.
Arrive in Tashkent this afternoon and take a tour of its modern Soviet sights. The capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent was rebuilt following the catastrophic earthquake of 1966. Pay a visit to the glorious Old City and step inside majestic Tillya Sheikh Mosque to see one of the world’s oldest copies of the Quran. Later, explore the historic trains of the Soviet era and walk away with a new appreciation for the wondrous workings of your own luxury locomotive. Finish the day at the Museum of Applied Arts, where you can study the intricate craftmanship of Uzbek ceramics and textiles.
After a hearty breakfast in the dining car, prepare to discover the many wonders of beautiful Bukhara. An integral hub of trade and travel dating back more than 2,500 years, Bukhara is now a living reminder of the region’s ancient civilisations. At the heart of Bukhara’s story is ‘The Ark’, a sprawling 5th-century fortress that served as the former residence of Bukhara’s emirs.
Continue to the grand complex of Poi-Kalyan, where one of Central Asia’s largest mosques stands resolute beneath dual cerulean domes. While the original 12th-century mosque fell in the conquests of Genghis Khan, the breathtaking structure that stands today dates back to the 16th century and perfectly captures the ingenuity of Central Asian architectural design.
Beneath the rolling roofs of Bukhara’s eye-catching trading domes, a world of bustling exchange unfolds. These exceptional structures have witnessed centuries of comings and goings, while nearby Lyabi-Hauz Plaza has offered shady respite to generations of weary travellers as they rest under the branches of wise old mulberry trees, stretching their limbs in the refreshing presence of the central pool.
Follow this mellow air to the emir’s summer palace, Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, or ‘Palace of the Moon and Stars’. Here, coloured glass and detailed tiled ceilings cast a vibrant light over opulent interiors.
Tonight, the Golden Eagle waits for you as you enjoy a special starlit barbeque on the station platform (weather permitting).
After another evening in your well-appointed cabin, rise ready for the day as you enter Turkmenistan and alight in the city of Mary for a transfer to the ancient remains of Merv. Believed to be the largest city in the world during the 12th century, this oasis was deserted in the 1780s. As you wander this historic site, turn your eyes to the 12th-century Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, standing 38 metres tall against the sweeping sands.
Board the Golden Eagle in the late afternoon and enjoy another sumptuous dinner onboard before a restful slumber.
After sunrise, disembark in the capital of Ashgabat. Reconstructed following a 1948 earthquake, Ashgabat is now known as the ‘White Marble City’. Vast boulevards, elaborate fountains and innumerable monuments offer a dazzling display of marble magnificence and golden grandeur. Unpack the region’s complex history at the National Museum of Turkmenistan, home to countless ancient treasures, then stand speechless at the enormous Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque.
Back on board, your eagle on the rails takes you north into Ichoguz after nightfall for the chance to visit the gargantuan Darvaza gas crater, known colloquially as the ‘Door to Hell’, where a perpetual fire has burned for 40 years.
Make your return to Uzbekistan today, and travel to the ancient trading post of Khiva. Founded 1,500 years ago, Khiva sat at the crossroads of the Silk Road stretching between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia. Down cobbled streets and along imposing fortress walls, take the time to uncover Khiva’s rich cultural heritage, captured best by its marvellous mosques, madrassas and minarets. Get a taste for Uzbekistan among the colourful stalls of the city’s bazaars and mingle with the locals selling their wares.
Rested and reenergised, you’ll step out into the ‘verdant city’ of Shahrisabz. One of Central Asia’s oldest cities, this 2,700-year-old offers plentiful architectural marvels. Visit the statue of famed military leader Amir Timur, once inspired by Genghis Khan, then stand amid the towering ruins of Timur’s Ak-Saray Palace, where centuries-old mosaics are still visible today.
Today, your Central Asian adventure takes you to the capital of Tajikistan, Dushanbe, for a guided morning tour. Uncover the eye-watering detail of Kohi Navruz, a teahouse-turned-palace more akin to an entertainment arcade than your typical palatial suite. From elegant rotunda to a man-made lake and onsite cinema, this is decadence on a level all its own. Sit down for tea and local delicacies in the lavish salons before returning to the Golden Eagle.
Along the Silk Road, the cities of Central Asia bore witness to the rise and fall of great civilisations. With millennia of history to their names, the streets of Samarkand are paved with tales of great leaders, ferocious battles and epic journeys. Here, visit captivating and significant sites, from Registan Square at the centre of the ancient city, to the looming walls of the 14th-century Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Study the skies through the 15th-century innovations of Ulugh Beg’s Observatory, then return to Registan Square, which glows with kaleidoscopic light in the evening.
After a long day of sightseeing, it’s time to hop back aboard your railway hotel for a sumptuous dinner.
With another whole day to explore wondrous Samarkand, your morning begins with a visit to the famed Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. While its oldest structures date back to the 11th century, the jaw-dropping tile work largely originates from the 14th century and represents some of the region’s most beautiful historic design. Among this extensive collection of mausoleums, take a moment to appreciate the solemn beauty dedicated to their construction.
Travelling onward to the nearby Afrasiab Museum, you’ll have a chance to study innumerable ancient artefacts, such as the masterful frescoes depicting Sogdian King Varkhuman, meticulously created in the 7th century.
Upon returning to your familiar railway cabin, settle in for an energising lunch as you trundle on towards the Fergana Valley.
This morning brings you to ancient Margilan, famed for its silk production. At the Yodgorlik Silk Factory you’ll unspool the silk-making process from beginning to end, getting a feel for the delicate namesake of the historic trade route you’re travelling. Watch closely as the skilled local craftspeople weave graceful ikat fabrics.
Boarding a coach transport, you’ll make your way on to Rishtan, historic home of the Uzbek ceramic tradition. Meet respected local artisan Rustam Usmanov for a special demonstration revealing the secrets to Rishtan’s recognisably ornamental glazed ceramics.
At the edge of the Uzbek Fergana Valley lies Kokand, where two main trade routes once intersected. Step into the Palace of Khudayar Khan, the last ruler of the Kokand Khanate, where a museum now displays glistening jewellery, metalware and finely made clothes. Your day of discovery concludes at the remarkable Jami Mosque, covered in hypnotic patterns of vibrant colour. At the centre of the Chorsu Square, gaze up at the 22-metre-tall minaret, constructed out of baked brick.
This evening, rejoin the shining Golden Eagle to celebrate your last night on the Silk Road with a spectacular farewell dinner aboard. Toast to new friends, then retire to your comfortable cabin to watch the countryside trundle by as you make your way back to Tashkent.
After one final breakfast aboard your spectacular home on the rails, it’s time to transfer to Tashkent International Airport (TAS). Though your scenic journey through the ‘Stans of Central Asia may have come to a close, you’ll be taking home some truly magnificent memories.