Turkestan: the legacy of the Silk Road
HISTORY · THE SILK ROAD · SACRED SITES
One of the key cities on the Great Silk Road, where spiritual heritage and ancient architecture stand side by side with the modern Karavan Saray complex.
Turkestan is a unique region of Kazakhstan, combining spiritual sites, the history of the Silk Road and the modern Karavan Saray complex.
Turkestan: the legacy of the Silk Road
The mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi, the Sauran Fortress and the Arystan-Bab mausoleum — Turkestan is home to layers of history that have shaped Central Asia over the centuries. The itinerary is put together on a modular basis: the programme is tailored to your interests, whether they be architecture, spiritual heritage or the region’s lesser-known sites.
SILK ROAD
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE
Central Asia Heritage
New Kazakhstan
from $80 per person
The price is quoted ‘from’ and is for information purposes only. The final price is calculated on a case-by-case basis and confirmed by a manager at the time of booking.
The main attraction of Turkestan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on the orders of Tamerlane in the 14th century, the mausoleum is regarded as one of the greatest monuments of medieval architecture in Central Asia and one of Kazakhstan’s most important spiritual shrines.
The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi
One of the largest cities on the Great Silk Road and the birthplace of the philosopher Al-Farabi. The ruins of the ancient city offer a glimpse into the history of a region that has been an important commercial and cultural centre for centuries.
The Otrar archaeological site
During the walk, visitors will see the mausoleums of members of the Chingizid and Timurid dynasties, the complex’s ancient buildings and the oriental bathhouse, which has retained the atmosphere of centuries past.
The Yassawi Historical and Architectural Complex
A modern tourist complex inspired by the atmosphere of the Great Silk Road. Here, guests can enjoy oriental-style pedestrian streets, restaurants, shops and evening shows. A special highlight is the Altyn Samruk Flying Theatre — a unique multimedia attraction featuring a flight simulation that introduces visitors to Kazakhstan’s natural and historical landmarks through an immersive journey.
Karavan Saray
A picturesque region in Southern Kazakhstan, featuring mountain ranges, canyons and natural landscapes. Along the way, panoramic views of the steppes and gorges offer a glimpse of another side to the region, beyond its historical monuments.
Karatau
A medieval fortified town with well-preserved defensive walls. Sauran was once one of the largest towns in the region and an important stop on the Great Silk Road.
Ancient Sauron
A small historic town, famous for its madrasas (*Muslim schools*) and ancient mosque. This place offers a glimpse of a lesser-known but very authentic side of Southern Kazakhstan.
Karnak
One of Kazakhstan’s most revered sites, associated with the spiritual mentor Khoja Ahmed Yassawi. Thousands of pilgrims and travellers visit here every year.
The Arystan-Bab Mausoleum
Tour locations:
Locations are selected using a modular approach: the programme can be tailored and adapted entirely to your individual requirements. Any attractions or points of interest you are interested in can be added to the final itinerary.
Stories of those who saw the world differently
‘Usually, the most beautiful views turn up where you least expect them. That’s exactly what happened on the road through Karatau. I managed to take lots of lovely photos.’
— Arnur, historian and archivist
‘Sauran was a real revelation for me. I hadn’t expected so much of this ancient city to have survived. When you walk along the fortress walls, it’s easy to imagine what this place was like several centuries ago.’
— Dilyara, creative producer
‘We spent a long time looking at the mausoleum, and it looks different from every angle. Even if you’re not interested in architecture, it’s definitely worth a visit.’
— Nurlan, entrepreneur
‘I didn’t expect to like Karavan Saray quite so much. It’s a modern place, yet it has a distinct Eastern atmosphere. It’s particularly beautiful here in the evening, and the pedestrianised streets create a completely different atmosphere.’
— Asylkhan, urban planner
‘The authentic madrasas in Karnak reveal a truly unique, secluded side of Southern Kazakhstan, unspoilt by mass tourism.’
— Aigerim, art critic
‘The panoramic views of the Karatau gorges and mountain ranges provided the perfect natural backdrop to the rich historical programme.’
— Timur, travel photographer
Answers to important questions:
It is here that the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi is situated, one of the country’s most important holy sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For many centuries now, Turkestan has remained an important centre of pilgrimage, culture and Islamic heritage in Central Asia.
When visiting mausoleums and religious sites, it is advisable to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the region’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
They were once among the largest cities on the Great Silk Road. Today, their ruins give us an idea of the scale of these medieval cities and allow us to experience the atmosphere of that era.
It is here that the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi is situated, one of the country’s most important holy sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For many centuries now, Turkestan has remained an important centre of pilgrimage, culture and Islamic heritage in Central Asia.
When visiting mausoleums and religious sites, it is advisable to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the region’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
They were once among the largest cities on the Great Silk Road. Today, their ruins give us an idea of the scale of these medieval cities and allow us to experience the atmosphere of that era.
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