Top 10 experiences to have in Central Asia
A list of places and activities that we believe you should have
In the five "stans" that make up the region known as Central Asia, there is a wealth of things to learn about: from enormous steppes to heavenly mountains, from ancient settlements along the Great Silk Road to magnificent modern architecture in Astana, from nomadic culture to Soviet heritage. If you want to have an incredible experience exploring Central Asia, check out these 10 top must-have experiences for your Central Asia trip.
1
Pamir Highway, Tajikistan
Take a road trip along the Pamir Highway and explore the second highest highway in the world.
2
Charyn Canyons, Kazakhstan
Visit one of the largest canyons in the world, Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan.
3
The Pearl of Tien Shan
Take a tour to the "pearl of Kyrgyzstan," Issyk-Kul, the second largest mountain lake in the world, which can be called the most magnificent natural treasure of Kyrgyzstan.
4
Samarkand, Bukhara & Khiva, Uzbekistan
If you love art and admire incredible and mind-boggling architecture, visit the cities of the ancient silk road of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva in Uzbekistan.
5
Darvaza, Turkmenistan
Discover one of nature's mysteries-the "Gates of Hell," or Darvaza, a gas crater in Turkmenistan.
6
Nomadic life, Kyrgyzstan
Taste traditional nomadic life by spending the night in a yurt and drinking a shot of kumis (kumis is fermented mare's milk, an alcoholic beverage traditional in Central Asia).
7
Hiking in the mountains, Central Asia
Take a hike in the mountains because no visit to Central Asia is complete without hiking through bright blue lakes and high mountain passes or hiking along rushing rivers and through green valleys
8
Local Bazaars, Central Asia
Go shopping at local bazaars to see the range of local goods and practice your bartering skills.
9
Hot Springs in Langar, Tajikistan
If you travel to Tajikistan, bathe in hot springs because there are many naturally occurring hot springs. You will find them between Langar and Khorog.
10
Local cuisine, Central Asia
Discover the most incredible food experience by tasting the region's most popular dishes: Shashlik, Pilaf, Manti, Samsa, Bread or Naan, Borscht, Lagman.