ASIAN Geographic’s expeditions are back, and with it the trip that tops so many people’s travel bucket lists: the Silk Road through Uzbekistan. This is the country where caravans of camels once journeyed through the desert, travelling from oasis to oasis, and where the descendants of those camels still roam. The caravanserais where they would spend the night are still standing, too, as are the grand bazaars and the glittering monuments of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. It might feel as if you are stepping into a fairy tale, but Uzbekistan is very much real.
The first thing you need to know about Uzbekistan is that the past and the present stand inseparably side by side. Flying into the capital, Tashkent, everything looks glitzy and new, but this is a city striding confidently into its third millennium. It has always been an important regional hub – the main market is named Chorsu, meaning “crossroads” – and if it weren’t for a catastrophic earthquake in 1966, you would still be able to walk among monuments generations old. Some tourists do arrive and travel straight on to Uzbekistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but this is an opportunity missed: Tashkent sets the scene for your adventure, providing important historical and cultural context, and also offering some delightful attractions of its own.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Revealed Silver
Known in Latin as argentum, originating from the Sanskrit word argunas meaning \"shining\", silver is often an overlooked metal in comparison to gold, though it has properties that make it a unique and special element.
Celebrating the 2023 Rolex Awards for Enterprise Laureate: Liu Shaochuang
As a part of the Perpetual Planet Initiative, the Rolex Awards for Enterprise continues to expand the initiative’s growing portfolio, supporting exceptional individuals with innovative projects in areas such as the environment, science and health, applied technology, cultural heritage, and exploration.
The Treasures of Tahiti and the Journey of Giants
For decades, French Polynesia's beguiling islands have adorned travel brochures, alluring honeymooners with turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush volcanic peaks. Some 7,000 kilometres from its closest neighbours, and spread over five main island groups, the French territory's real treasures are not just what you see in the splashy brochures. Get ready for untamed, wild, ocean encounters.
Asian Blades
Historically, swords served as crucial tools for warfare and symbols of social status, shaping military strategies and cultural identities across the region. Fascinating objects found in museums, these ancient items of silverware are just as likely to be found in private collections around the world
Bear Witness REVISITED
Through soulful eyes we see ourselves These creatures sad and splendid For though they be confined to bars Flesh bodies crushed, tormented Their spirits burn with freedom's fight Mad, somewhat demented... Like the rusting strands of metal twine That hold their fate suspended Cruelty is an irony A stage for man To play his hand In wickedness or wonder
A Spectrum Of Scarlet: The Symbolic Red Of Asian Flags
A common thread that unites many Asian flags is the prominent use of red, a colour rich with symbolism
Curry: A World of Flavour, Tradition, and Culture
From its humble beginnings in India, the concept of "curry" has evolved into a culinary language understood around the world
The Power Of Asian Red Fruits - Discover 10 Nutrient-Rich Gems Of The East
In the vast tapestry of Nature, Asia has gifted the world an array of unique and vibrant fruits, particularly those in shades of red. These scarlet-hued gems, packed with flavour and nutrients, not only add a burst of colour to your plate but also carry valuable health benefits. From antioxidant-rich goji berries to the exotic dragon fruit, let's explore some of the most popular red fruits from Asia and discover why they should be part of your diet.
Bhutan: A World Of Its Own
With its majestic monasteries, red-robed monks, charming rural villages, and vibrant festivals, the Kingdom of Bhutan is a Himalayan paradise that promises an enriching travel experience like no other
Take The Red Pill
From the vermilion torii gates of Japan to the famed rust-hued walls of India's Agra Fort, the burgundy robes of Burmese monks to scarlet chillies drying in the Bangladeshi sun, red is the quintessential colour of Asia.
