FEW LANDMARKS HAVE tantalised the minds of travellers more than the legendary cities of Central Asia. Originally caravanserais on the Golden Trade route across Central Asia, they developed into thriving centres of commerce and culture. Under the ferocious medieval warriors Genghis Khan and then Tamerlane, they assumed inimitable power and splendour.

Travel through the spectacular Pamir mountains of Tajikistan and visit Panjikent, sometimes referred to as ‘Oriental Pompei’. Cross into Uzbekistan and visit the legendary city of Samarkand. Explore ‘Divine Bukhara’, a town of hundreds of mosques, madrassas and minarets. Experience the timelessness of a central Asia town in Khiva.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Registan in Samarkand described as the ‘noblest square in the world’
• Cross the great Karakum Desert dotted with Spring flowers
• Explore Dushanbe with its historic landmarks, set against the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery