Visiting Samarkand: A Complete Silk Road Guide

The Registan in Samarkand — Source: Pixabay

Samarkand, the storied capital of Timur and a great crossroads of the Silk Road, is one of the most beautiful Islamic cities on earth. This guide brings together our articles on its monuments, its sacred shrines and where to stay on a budget.

Our Samarkand Guides

Who Comes to Samarkand

Samarkand draws pilgrims visiting the shrine of Shah-i-Zinda, lovers of Islamic art and architecture, and Silk Road travellers tracing the ancient trade routes across Central Asia. Its sacred sites welcome respectful visitors of every background.

When to Visit

Spring, from April to early June, and autumn, in September and October, offer the most comfortable weather, with mild days and blossoming gardens. Summers are very hot and winters cold, though both bring lower prices and thinner crowds.

Getting There

Samarkand is easily reached by fast train from the Uzbek capital Tashkent in around two hours, and is well connected to Bukhara further along the Silk Road. The city also has an international airport. Within Samarkand, the main sights are close together and many can be explored on foot.