Shahrisabz Day Tour – Explore the Birthplace of Tamerlane (With Guide)

Begin your journey with a comfortable ride through the Zeravshan Mountains via the Tahtakaracha Pass, famous for its sharp curves and sweeping valley views.

Just 10 km outside of Samarkand lies the peaceful Konigil village, nestled along a fast-flowing stream. This charming place is home to one of the region’s most fascinating artisan workshops — a family-run enterprise that revives the ancient art of silk paper making.

🌿 What You’ll Experience:

• Step-by-step demonstration of how paper is made from mulberry bark, just as it was over 1,000 years ago during the heyday of the Silk Road.

• See the use of traditional water mills powered by the river to pulp the bark.

• Observe the process of pressing, drying, and polishing the sheets by hand using stone and natural dyes.

• Try making your own paper sheet — a fun and immersive moment for hands-on travelers and kids alike.

🕰️ A Living Heritage:

• The technique was originally introduced to Samarkand in the 8th century, after the Battle of Talas, when Chinese paper makers were captured and brought to Central Asia.

• Samarkand quickly became one of the world’s earliest paper capitals, exporting its durable, high-quality paper across the Islamic world and Europe.

🎁 Shop & Souvenirs:

• Browse beautifully crafted notebooks, cards, and scrolls, all made using the workshop’s handmade paper.

• Also available: locally produced natural cosmetics, tea, oils, and herbal souvenirs.

📷 Pro Tip:

• The water wheels, clay walls, and flower gardens make this one of the most photogenic and peaceful stops on the route. Arrive early for soft morning light and fewer crowds.

A naturally formed limestone arch known locally as a spiritual site — many believe walking through its “pierced stone” brings health and good luck.

🎥 Did you know?
The dramatic rocks and semi-desert terrain near Teshik-Tosh and Tahtakaracha Pass were used as a filming location for the iconic 1973 East German movie “Apachen”, starring Gojko Mitić. This cult “Eastern Western” featured Native American heroes and was beloved across the Soviet bloc. The landscape was chosen for its uncanny resemblance to the American Southwest. Today, it’s a fun trivia stop for cinema fans — and makes a perfect spot for cinematic photos!

Enjoy panoramic views over the mountain range and the Shahrisabz valley below. Your guide/driver will stop at a designated viewpoint for photos and fresh mountain air.

Begin the walking portion of your exploration. All sites are within walking distance.

Visit the ruins of Timur’s grandest architectural achievement. Originally over 50 meters tall, the gate towers and intricate tilework hint at its lost splendor. Hear the story of how craftsmen from across Asia were brought to build it.

This spiritual complex houses the empty crypt of Amir Temur, originally intended as his burial site. Also home to the mausoleums of his sons and family members.

Discover the final resting place of Timur’s father (Taragay) and his spiritual guide Sheikh Shamsaddin Kulyal. This ensemble features blue-domed mausoleums and beautiful Quranic inscriptions.

Explore embroidered suzanis, handwoven carpets, pottery, and antiques in the old town. Your guide or driver will point you to the best stalls.

Take Lunch (optional) on the road. Leave for Samarkand