The Silk Road Fortresses

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Aralsea Tour

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Tour program

09:00

Departure from Nukus

Meeting with the guide and departure from Nukus. After a brief introduction, the journey through the ancient history of the region begins.

10:30

Chilpyk (Shylpyk) – Tower of Silence

Chilpyk is one of the most mysterious monuments of ancient Khorezm. This circular structure, built more than 2000 years ago, stands on top of a natural hill rising above the desert and the Amu Darya valley. Archaeologists believe it was a Zoroastrian “Tower of Silence”, a sacred place where ancient rituals were performed according to Zoroastrian traditions.From the top of the hill visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the desert landscapes and the Amu Darya River, making it one of the most photogenic places in Karakalpakstan.

12:00

Amu Darya Fish Lunch

After visiting the airplane monument, we stop for lunch at a unique local restaurant known for serving some of the freshest fish in the region. The fish is caught directly from the waters of the Amu Darya River, one of Central Asia’s most famous rivers, and prepared according to traditional local recipes. Here travelers can enjoy a true taste of Karakalpak cuisine, where freshly caught fish is cooked on the spot and served in a simple but authentic atmosphere. Many visitors say this stop becomes one of the most memorable parts of the journey — not only for the food, but for the opportunity to experience local traditions and hospitality.

15:30

Kyzyl Qala Fortress

Kyzyl Qala, meaning “Red Fortress,” is one of the best-preserved ancient fortresses of Khorezm. Built nearly 2000 years ago, this stronghold once protected the borders of the powerful Khorezmian kingdom and guarded important trade routes of the region. Today visitors can walk along the reconstructed walls and imagine how soldiers once watched over the desert from these towers. The fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into the military architecture and defensive systems of ancient Central Asia.

16:00

Toprak Qala – Royal City of Ancient Khorezm

Toprak Qala was once the royal residence and capital of ancient Khorezm during the 2nd–3rd centuries AD. This impressive archaeological site reveals the remains of a massive palace complex, temples, and fortified city walls that once housed thousands of people. \n\n\n\nArchaeologists discovered remarkable halls decorated with sculptures and wall paintings, showing the power and sophistication of the Khorezm civilization. Walking through the ruins today feels like stepping back into the time of ancient kings and the early Silk Road.

18:30

Badai Tugai Nature Reserve

Badai Tugai is a unique natural reserve located along the Amu Darya River, not far from Toprak Kala. It is one of the few remaining tugai forests in Central Asia — a rare ecosystem that forms a green oasis in the middle of the desert.

20:00

Arrival in Khiva

Arrival in Khiva in the evening. Guests are dropped off at hotels. Guide services in Khiva are not included. End of tour.

Aralsea Tour

The Silk Road Fortresses

Journey through the legendary fortresses of the Silk Road.

from 45 $

100+

12+

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Tithi Mukherjee

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