Tajikistan Cultural Discovery Tour: Panjakent – Haftkul – Khujand

Distance: ~75 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Homestay “Tuichiboy” in Padrud Village

• Morning: Meet and greet at the Panjakent border crossing.
• Visit:
  • Sarazm Proto-Urban Site – UNESCO-listed archaeological site dating back to the 4th millennium BC.
• Scenic Drive: Journey through the legendary Haftkul (Seven Lakes) valley, stopping at the 1st to 6th lakes to admire crystal-clear waters framed by dramatic mountain backdrops.
• Afternoon Arrival: Nofin Village (by the 4th lake), known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional Tajik culture.

Evening: Enjoy homemade Tajik cuisine and local hospitality at a cozy family-run guesthouse.

Distance: ~100 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Panjakent Plaza Hotel 4*

• Morning: After breakfast in the village, drive to Panjakent, the cultural heart of the Zeravshan Valley.
• Cultural Visits:
  • Rudaki Museum – Dedicated to the founder of Persian classical poetry.
  • Ancient Panjakent ruins – Once a thriving Sogdian trading city on the Silk Road.
• Lunch: Traditional Plov (pilaf) prepared in a scenic chaikhana (teahouse) by local chefs.
• Afternoon Free Time: Explore the bazaar or sip green tea with locals.

Distance: ~300 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Parliament Hotel 4*, Khujand

• Scenic Drive: Northward through mountain passes toward Khujand, with a historical stop in Istaravshan.
• Highlights in Istaravshan:
  • Mug Tepa Fortress – One of the oldest settlements in Central Asia.
  • Khazrati Shoh Complex – Mausoleums, mosque, and madrasah surrounded by ancient legends.
• Lunch: Authentic Tajik dishes in a local restaurant.
• Arrival in Khujand: Check-in and relax at your 4* hotel.

Dinner: Local restaurant featuring northern Tajik specialties.

Distance: ~90 km | Duration: 2 hours
End of Services: Oybek Border Crossing

• Morning Sightseeing in Khujand:
  • Somoni Monument & Park of Kamoli Khujandi
  • Soviet-Era Memorials: Lenin Statue & Memorial Square
  • Panjshanbe Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest in Central Asia
  • Mosque of Shaikh Muslihiddin – a spiritual landmark
  • Khujand Regional Museum – showcasing Tajik history and culture
• Lunch: Farewell meal at a charming local restaurant.

Afternoon: Transfer to Oybek border crossing for departure.