Explore the historic sites of Central Asia on a full-day tour of Otrar and Turkestan. Discover the birthplace of philosopher Al-Farabi and the burial place of poet Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Experience the medieval architecture and learn why the mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shymkent – Otrar – Turkestan
Arrival in Shymkent by plane or train in the morning
Meeting with the guide and transfer to ancient commercial oasis Otrar also known as Farab (1BC-15AD)
During the excursion at Otrar tourists will find excavations on the site of an ancient city that helped researchers to learn a lot about the infrastructure of the city. Tourists will be able to see that Otrar had a clear layout of the streets, quarters, which could be accessed through three fortress gates, equipped with throw-over bridges across the moat.
Excursion at Shaulder museum where gathered most of Otrar’s excavational findings; on the way to museum visit Arystan Bab mausoleum.
After visiting Arystan-Bab mausoleum we will depart to Turkestan city (95 km).
Turkestan visit starts with the main sightseeing of the city, the most well-known in Kazakhstan UNESCO world heritage – The complex of Hodja Ahmed Yassawi (14th century). This complex includes mausoleum, citadel, the ancient bath complex, the fortress wall, Juma mosque. The mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassaui is an unsurpassed masterpiece of medieval architecture. This is an amazing complex of palaces and temples from 30 different rooms and halls.
After excursion in Turkestan city, transfer back to Shymkent city
- Professional guide
- Bottled water
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
The full-day excursion to Otrar and Turkestan immerses you in some of the most ancient and historic sites in Central Asia. Otrar is recognized as the hometown of the illustrious medieval philosopher and scholar Al-Farabi, while Turkestan holds the gravesite of the revered poet and spiritual leader Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. His tomb is a crowning example of medieval architectural triumph and has become a pilgrimage hub for the Muslim community.
Moreover, in 2003, the Mausoleum of Khodja Ahmed Yasawi was honored with a place on UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage list.
Throughout this exploration, you will understand the reasons behind the mausoleum’s inclusion in the UNESCO catalog, experience the aura of a medieval metropolis that once served as the capital of Kazakhstan, and discover that in the 18th and 19th-century European cartography, the area presently known as Kazakhstan was referred to as Turkestan.
- Dress code is smart casual
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
