Paper, Pottery & Silk Carpet Tour near Samarkand

Your cultural journey begins with a visit to Samarkand’s renowned silk carpet factory, a family-run workshop known across Central Asia.

• Witness the entire process of hand-weaving carpets — from raw silk cocoon to finished masterpiece.

• Learn the traditional dyeing and knotting techniques still used today.

• Discover the secrets of evaluating silk carpets from seasoned weavers — perfect if you’re looking to purchase an heirloom.

Continue to Konigil, a charming village home to the famous Meros Silk Paper Workshop.

• Participate in the traditional process of making silk paper by hand, a method revived from the 8th century.

• Explore working watermills and see how bark is transformed into resilient, beautiful paper.

• Try producing your own piece — a memorable hands-on experience.

Next, you’ll head to the colorful and energetic Urgut Bazaar, one of Uzbekistan’s most famous trading centers.

• Explore the bustling market and immerse yourself in local life and bargaining traditions.

• Visit the Suzani section — marvel at stunning embroidered textiles used as wall hangings, tablecloths, and dowry gifts.

• Learn the ancient art of negotiation, a skill that’s been passed down since the Silk Road era.

Just outside the bazaar lies the mystical Chor-Chinor plane tree grove, a natural and spiritual wonder.

• Stroll through a grove of ancient plane trees, some over 1,000 years old.

• Admire their twisting, massive trunks, which have become spiritual symbols of the region.

• Breathe in fresh mountain air near the foothills of the Zeravshan range.

End the tour in true artisan style at the home and workshop of Numon Kulol, a celebrated local potter.

• Receive a personal introduction to traditional Uzbek pottery.

• See how clay is transformed into bowls, dishes, and decorative pieces.

• Try your own hand at the potter’s wheel and take part in a short hands-on experience.