Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan – Solo Journey for 11 days across Central Asia
Travel Trivia for both countries:
Flights:
Mumbai–Almaty (Air Astana)
Almaty–Tashkent–Samarkand (Air Astana & Uzbekistan Airways)
Urgench (33 km from Khiva) → Tashkent (Uzbekistan Airways)
Tashkent → Mumbai (IndiGo Airlines)
Intercity Travel: Comfortable high-speed trains connect major Uzbek cities
• Samarkand → Bukhara — booked via 12go.asia
• Bukhara → Khiva — booked via 12go.asia
Transport App: Yandex Go (widely used in both countries)
Cuisine Highlights: Baursaks, Shashlik, Plov, Khachapuri, and Tandoori-style Indian meals
Weather (October): Cool and pleasant — ideal for day trips and hikes
Kazakhstan
- Population: ~19.6 million (2025 estimate)
- Country Code: +7
- Capital City: Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan)
- Neighbouring Countries: Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan
- Languages: Kazakh, Russian
- Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
- Visa: Visa-free for Indian citizens (stay up to 14 days per visit) — Official Info
Uzbekistan
- Population: ~36.5 million (2025 estimate)
- Country Code: +998
- Capital City: Tashkent
- Neighbouring Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan
- Languages: Uzbek, Russian
- Currency: Uzbek Som (UZS)
- Visa: E-Visa available online — Apply here
Travel Insurance: ICICI Lombard Travel Insurance
Travel Mode: Solo journey with guided tours for key destinations
Stays booked via booking.com:
• Wanderlust Boutique Hostel — Almaty | 5 nights
• Imran & Bek — Samarkand | 2 nights
• Orzu Guest House — Bukhara | 2 nights
• Art Hostel — Tashkent | 1 night
Tours & Experiences (Kazakhstan):
• Issyk Lake & Turgen Waterfall Tour — Kazakhstan Guided Tours
• Huns Ethno Village Tour — Hello Kazakhstan Tours
• Kolsai, Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon Tour — Join Me Asia Tours
• Almaty City Tour + Shymbulak Cable Car — Join Me Asia Tours
• Big Almaty Lake Tour — Join Me Asia Tours
Day 0 — 6th October | Mumbai Departure
A late-night Uber ride to Mumbai airport marked the start of my Central Asian adventure. I grabbed a quick spinach quesadilla before boarding the Air Astana flight to Almaty. As the plane lifted off, excitement set in — two countries, eleven days, and endless memories ahead.
Day 1 — 7th October | Issyk Lake & Turgen (Bear) Waterfall Tour: The Perfect Start to Kazakhstan
My first day in Kazakhstan began with the Issyk Lake and Turgen Gorge Tour by Kazakhstan Guided Tours. The cool morning air and distant mountain views made for a perfect start to my Central Asian journey.
After getting my 5G Kcell Activ SIM with unlimited data, exchanging currency (USD to KZT) at YES Exchange in Almaty Airport, and taking a Yandex cab to the Resident City Hotel — my tour pickup point — I grabbed a chocolate croissant and hot coffee from Bulka Market Café nearby. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and the warmth of the coffee set just the right tone for the day ahead.
Places Visited:
🐻 Turgen Gorge & Bear Waterfall — A short scenic hike through the Ili-Alatau Mountains, surrounded by pine forests and the soothing sound of glacial streams. The Bear Waterfall flowed gracefully amid lush greenery, the crisp mountain air making every breath feel fresh and alive.
🏞️ Issyk Lake — About 70 km from Almaty, nestled at an altitude of 1,756 meters, the lake shimmered in shades of turquoise and deep blue under the sunlight. I sat quietly by its edge, mesmerized by the stillness of the water and the grandeur of the surrounding peaks — a moment of pure calm that words can barely capture.
Our guide shared fascinating stories about the lake’s volcanic origins, local legends, and how the area once hosted ancient Saka burials — blending history with breathtaking natural beauty.
Lunch at Restaurant Annushka was a comforting spread of tomato pizza, salad, and baklava, offering a delicious mix of flavors before heading back toward Almaty.
As the day wound down, I joined a friendly Marathi couple for dinner at Spice Mantra, where we had an Indian meal of tandoori roti and mixed vegetables.
Before heading back to the hostel, I made one last stop at Pasta la Vista for a creamy pistachio latte, savored it and then booked a Yandex cab ride through the softly lit Almaty streets — the perfect ending to my first day in Kazakhstan.
Day 2 — 8th October | Huns Ethno Village Experience: A Journey Into Kazakh Nomadic Traditions
This day was all about immersing myself in Kazakh nomadic culture at the Huns Ethno Village, nestled at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains. The drive from Almaty was scenic, with vast open fields leading to a village that felt like stepping into another century.
We were welcomed with a cheerful Shashu ritual — candies thrown in joy — and a grand entrance of warriors in battle armor on horseback. It instantly set the tone for a cultural deep dive into Kazakhstan’s ancient traditions.
Cultural Highlights:
🐴 Equestrian Performance & Horse Riding — A professional horse-riding show unfolded before us, complete with warrior stunts, synchronized gallops, and traditional battle reenactments. Later, we even got the chance to ride horses ourselves — a brief but thrilling experience.
🏹 Archery Masterclass — Guided by local experts, I learned the basics of Kazakh archery, channeling the spirit of ancient steppe nomads.
🏕️ Inside the Yurt — We explored a beautifully crafted traditional yurt, where our hosts explained nomadic customs, family life, and the symbolism behind each decorative textile. Watching how Kazakh people cleaned and whipped wool to make these textiles was fascinating — a true art form preserved through generations.
🍽️ Taste of Kazakh Cuisine — The day ended with a traditional lunch inside the yurt, featuring warm milk tea (kumis), freshly fried baursaks with kaymak, and other local dishes. I even got to try making baursaks myself — golden and crispy, just the way locals love them.
After returning to the city, I stopped by Coffee Sweet Café for a comforting café latte, reflecting on how rich and welcoming Kazakh culture truly is and enjoying the autumn weather. Dinner later at Pasta la Vista — arrabbiata pasta and tiramisu — brought a familiar touch of Italy to end a day steeped in Central Asian heritage.
This was the day I truly fell in love with Kazakhstan’s warmth, traditions, and hospitality — a place where history still breathes in every dance, meal, and smile.
Day 3 — 9th October | Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes and Charyn Canyon: Kazakhstan’s Natural Wonders
If there was a day that truly showcased the raw beauty of Kazakhstan’s landscapes, it was this one. A full-day adventure through Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsai Lake — three of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in the Almaty region.
The morning began early, long before sunrise, as I joined a small group of travelers for the journey ahead. With my backpack filled with essentials and snacks from a nearby express market, we set out to explore the untouched side of Kazakhstan.
🏜️ Charyn Canyon – The Valley of Castles
After a few hours on the road, we arrived at Charyn Canyon, often called the Valley of Castles for its tall, fortress-like red rock formations. The morning sun painted the canyon walls in shades of gold and orange — a sight that felt almost otherworldly.
We hiked along the winding trail that descended into the canyon and walked beside the serene Sharyn River, surrounded by towering cliffs carved by time and wind. Every turn revealed a new perspective — from narrow gorges to open valleys where nature reigned supreme.
⛰️ Black Canyon – The Wild Beauty
Our next stop was the Black Canyon, a dramatic contrast to Charyn with its darker hues and deeper, sharper formations. The landscape here felt wild and mysterious — a photographer’s dream and a reminder of Kazakhstan’s vast geological diversity.
🌲💧 Kaindy Lake – The Sunken Forest
By afternoon, we reached Saty village, where vintage UAZ jeeps took us off-road through rugged mountain trails to the hidden Kaindy Lake. The sight was surreal — turquoise waters with submerged spruce trees rising eerily above the surface. It’s known as the Sunken Forest, formed after an earthquake in 1911, and the reflection of trees in the crystal-clear water made it feel like a painting come alive.
🏔️💙 Kolsai Lake – Tranquility in the Mountains
Our final stop was the serene Kolsai Lake, surrounded by alpine meadows and pine-covered slopes. The crisp mountain air and stillness of the lake created the perfect moment of peace after a long day of travel. I sat by the shore, watching sunlight dance across the water — it was one of those scenes that stay with you forever.
By evening, we began the journey back to Almaty, tired yet content. Back in the city, I ended the day with comforting Indian food at Taj India — simple mix veg and roti that felt like home after a day of adventure.
This was the kind of day that makes you fall in love with travel all over again — where nature humbles you, silence speaks louder than words, and every landscape feels like a gift.
Day 4 — 10th October | City Tour of Almaty & Shymbulak Cable Car
After days immersed in Kazakhstan’s wild mountain beauty, I dedicated the day to exploring Almaty’s urban spirit — a city where snow-capped peaks meet tree-lined boulevards, and modern life flows effortlessly alongside tradition.
The morning began with a cab ride to the pick-up point for the Almaty city tour, which promised a full day of discovery. Our first destination was the Medeo High-Altitude Skating Rink, set dramatically in a mountain valley.
Behind it stretched the Health Ladder (also called the Medeu Stairs or Stairs of Health), a steep staircase with hundreds of steps (842 steps to be exact) leading to panoramic views — a local favorite for fitness and fresh air.
🚠 Shymbulak Ski Resort & Cable Car Ride
From there, we took the Shymbulak cable car, gliding above pine forests and alpine meadows as the peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains came into view. At the top, I stopped at Café Gusto for an americano with milk, enjoying the crisp air and sweeping vistas.
A small yet memorable incident followed — I misplaced my cellphone but, thanks to an honest taxi driver, got it back safely. That simple act of kindness reminded me how travel often surprises you in the best ways.
🌇 Kok Tobe Hill — The Icon of Almaty
By afternoon, we made our way to Kok Tobe Hill, one of Almaty’s signature attractions. The winding road led us to a hilltop that overlooks the entire city. From here, the skyline shimmered beneath the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains. I wandered through small souvenir shops, bought a fridge magnet, and spent a quiet moment watching families stroll by and cable cars glide across the sky.
🏙️ Exploring the Heart of Almaty
Back in the city, the tour continued with stops at the Green Bazaar, where the air was filled with the scent of dried fruits, spices, and local sweets. I exchanged some currency nearby and picked up Kazakh chocolates at the Lotte Rakhat JSC brand store — a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Next came the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, a striking wooden structure painted in vibrant colors, surrounded by trees and laughter. These landmarks beautifully reflected Almaty’s mix of Soviet heritage and Kazakh identity.
Dinner that evening was a treat at Daredzhani, a Georgian restaurant where I relished Khachapuri, Khinkali, and Kakhuri raspberry tea — warm, hearty flavors that wrapped up the day perfectly.
It was a day that captured the essence of Almaty — adventurous, soulful, and full of little stories waiting to be told.
Day 5 — Big Almaty Lake: A Journey to the Turquoise Heights
My final day in Almaty was dedicated to one of its most iconic natural wonders — the Big Almaty Lake, a shimmering turquoise gem nestled high in the Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountains. This day was all about nature, altitude, and the quiet magic of the mountains.
The morning began with a cab ride to the tour pick-up point, and soon our small group set out on a winding drive through pine-covered slopes and fresh alpine air. As we passed the security post at the base, the ascent began — a steady hike of around 6 to 7 kilometers, climbing nearly 850 meters in elevation.
🥾 The Hike Up — Seven Hours of Serenity
The trail followed a large water pipe, sometimes cutting across steep paths that offered sweeping views of the valley below. It took about five hours of climbing, with every step bringing us closer to the lake. I stopped halfway for a simple snack — a croissant and bottled water — sitting on a rock while mountain winds carried the scent of pine and snow.
The silence of the mountains was profound. Occasionally, fellow hikers passed with cheerful smiles or a quick “Privet!” (hello in Russian), and we exchanged brief moments of camaraderie on the trail.
When I finally reached the top, the view was spellbinding.
💙 At the Lake — Nature’s Mirror
The Big Almaty Lake (BAO) revealed itself in a burst of blue — its surface shifting between shades of turquoise and sapphire depending on the light. Surrounded by rugged peaks and crisp, cool air, it felt like stepping into a postcard. The lake, an alpine reservoir sitting at over 2,500 meters, supplies drinking water to Almaty — no swimming is allowed, but simply sitting by its edge is an experience in itself.
I spent a quiet hour here, soaking in the peace, snapping photos, and watching clouds drift lazily across the peaks. It was one of those rare places where time slows down — just you and the mountains.
⛰️ Descent and Evening in the City
The descent took about two hours, and though my legs felt heavy, my heart was light. Back in the city, I stopped by the Green Bazaar once more to exchange some currency and then settled at Coffee BOOM for dinner — a cozy spot with warm lighting and the smell of fresh pastries. I ordered Shakshuka, scrambled eggs with tomatoes, a honey pastry, green tea and iced matcha latte — a comforting end to a long, fulfilling day.
The Big Almaty Lake hike wasn’t just a trek; it was a journey through silence, stamina, and self-reflection. As I rode back to the hostel that night, the city lights of Almaty glittered below the same mountains I had just conquered — a perfect farewell to the peaks that had defined my Kazakh adventure.
Day 6 — 12th October | Crossing Borders: From the Peaks of Almaty to the Blue Domes of Samarkand
My time in Kazakhstan came to a graceful close as I packed my backpack and prepared to head towards Uzbekistan, the next chapter of my Central Asian journey. It was a day of airports, quiet coffee breaks, and that familiar thrill of stepping into a new country.
The morning began with a short cab ride to the MiG currency exchange in Almaty, followed by a quick breakfast — a vegetarian croissant and iced cappuccino at Kulikov Café, one of those simple, perfect travel moments before a flight. With some last-minute currency exchanged, I made my way to Almaty International Airport for the short flight to Tashkent.
🛫 Transit Through Tashkent
At Tashkent Airport, I got myself a UZTelecom SIM card — 50GB of 5G-speed data for seven days, with a complimentary day of unlimited internet (a small but handy gift for a solo traveler on the go).
Since my onward connection to Samarkand was from another terminal, I booked a Yandex cab to Terminal 3, enjoying my first brief glimpse of Uzbekistan’s wide boulevards and neatly landscaped streets. A cappuccino at Mooz Café kept me company while waiting to board, though I couldn’t pay due to a card glitch — the barista smiled and waved me off, offering it as a friendly welcome gesture. Small kindnesses make for big memories.
🕌 Arrival in Samarkand — The City of Legends
Landing in Samarkand, the ancient Silk Road city, felt surreal. The air carried a hint of autumn, and the airport buzzed softly with the charm of an old-world destination meeting modern travelers. I exchanged some currency (USD to UZS) at the airport before hopping into a cab to my hostel — a cozy base for the days ahead.
Dinner was simple but heartwarming — potatoes and vegetables at a local spot called Shokhrukh Nur. It was the kind of comforting meal that ends a long day of travel on the perfect note.
As I settled into my dorm that night, the thought of exploring Registan Square, ancient madrasas, and the mystic blue tiles of Samarkand filled me with excitement. A new rhythm awaited — one written in the colors of history, architecture, and timeless Silk Road stories.
Day 7 — 13th October | Samarkand — Exploring the Timeless Beauty of Samarkand
Waking up in Samarkand felt like stepping into a dream painted in shades of blue and gold. The morning air carried whispers of ancient travelers who once passed through this legendary Silk Road city. Today was all about soaking in its grandeur — from majestic monuments to simple local delights.
I started my day wandering through the local market, where I picked up a pair of sandals and bid farewell to my worn-out sports shoes — a symbolic little travel reset. The city streets were alive with color — bright ceramics, spices, and soft Uzbek music drifting through the stalls.
My first stop was the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the resting place of the great conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane). The intricate blue tiles and grand dome shimmered under the morning sun, radiating centuries of history. Inside, I spent a quiet moment admiring the craftsmanship and calm of the mausoleum.
Next came the heart of the city — Registan Square, surrounded by the Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari Madrasas. Standing in the middle of this architectural wonder felt surreal — golden mosaics, turquoise domes, and intricate calligraphy capturing the essence of Samarkand’s glory.
Stepping out, I refreshed myself with a raspberry banana smoothie at Labi Gor Café, and picked up a fridge magnet as a small keepsake.
I wandered through the madrasas, enjoyed a scoop of chocolate lemon gelato at Dolce Italia, and savored some Turkish baklava near Ulugh Beg Madrasa.
As evening fell, Registan transformed into a glowing masterpiece. The music light show (8.30 pm) and laser light show (9 pm) at the square added a magical touch — melodies echoing through the arches, domes lighting up in gold and blue, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
The day ended with a cozy dinner of veg pizza and coffee at Golden Food, reflecting on the layers of history and artistry that make Samarkand truly timeless.
Day 8 — 14th October | Farewell to Samarkand, Arrival in Bukhara’s Old Charm
The morning began at Siyob Bozori, Samarkand’s bustling local market filled with the scent of freshly baked bread, dried fruits, and traditional sweets. I wandered through the vibrant lanes, soaking in the everyday rhythm of Uzbek life.
A short walk away stood the majestic Bibi Khanym Mosque, one of the grandest architectural marvels of the Timurid era. Its enormous turquoise dome and towering archways stood as a poetic reminder of Samarkand’s golden past. Before leaving, I picked up a fridge magnet from my hostel — a tiny token of the city that had mesmerized me for two days.
Soon after, I headed to the Samarkand train station for my journey to Bukhara. The high-speed train glided smoothly through the steppe, offering glimpses of rural Uzbekistan — rolling fields, small villages, and endless horizons.
By noon, I arrived in Bukhara, a city that feels like stepping back into the Silk Road era. As evening set in, I set out on my own to explore Old Bukhara under the stars.
I treated myself to a slice of lemon cake and green tea at Magic House Café adorned with colorful handwoven carpets, vintage lamps, and painted walls that tell stories of Central Asian heritage, followed by a quick bite of veg hot dog at Café Family.
The softly lit streets, ancient domes, and echoing silence of centuries past gave the city a mystical glow — the perfect way to end my first evening in Bukhara.
Day 9 — 15th October | Explore Bukhara: The City of Timeless Charm
The day began with a quiet morning at Cafelova, tucked within the narrow lanes of Old Bukhara. The café’s rustic interiors, sunlight streaming through wooden windows, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee made it the perfect start to the day. I enjoyed a honey cake and an iced latte, a comforting combination before diving into the city’s history.
Later, I wandered through Bukhara’s labyrinthine streets lined with madrasas, souvenir shops, carpet shops, and artisan workshops.
Lunch was at the Terrace Eco Café, overlooking domes and minarets. The vegetarian shashlik paired with Moroccan tea was light and flavorful, enjoyed with a cool breeze and cute cats everywhere.
By evening, I settled at Coffee House, where I tried Shakshuka and pumpkin soup — simple yet rich in flavor, served with warm local bread.
The Puppet Workshop near Labi Hovuz caught my eye — shelves filled with colorful handcrafted puppets in silk robes and painted faces. I couldn’t resist picking a puppet girl, a beautiful reminder of Uzbekistan’s folk art tradition.
As the sun dipped, I treated myself to a fruit ice cream by the pond at Labi Hovuz, watching reflections of the madrasa shimmer on the water.
Bukhara, with its serene rhythm and golden glow, felt like stepping into a living museum — where every corner tells a story of Silk Road grandeur and gentle hospitality.
Day 10 — 16th October | The Desert Charm of Khiva and Journey to Tashkent
The day began early with a quiet ride to Bukhara train station, the soft hum of morning life filling the platforms. While waiting for the train, I treated myself to a pistachio croissant and cappuccino at Safia Café & Bakery — a cozy spot perfect for slow mornings.
The journey to Khiva felt like traveling through time — passing endless stretches of desert and small villages, until the walled city appeared, its minarets glimmering under the sun. At the station, I stored my luggage and set off to explore the Itchan Kala, the old city enclosed within mud-brick walls.
Lunch was at Kafe Islom Khoja, where I tried Uzbek plov and potato bread, paired with a creamy cappuccino. The quiet courtyard and aroma of fresh spices made it a delightful stop between strolls through the ancient streets.
Later, I paused at AIM Coffee, sipping on a carrot-apple chilled juice while admiring Khiva’s rustic architecture — a beautiful mix of blue-tiled domes and sandy hues. The air was warm, the pace unhurried, and every turn seemed to unveil a postcard view.
As dusk fell, I took time to explore Khiva at night on my own — wandering through lantern-lit lanes, listening to the echo of footsteps on cobblestones, and watching the Kalta Minor Minaret glow softly against the night sky. The city, wrapped in silence and golden light, felt almost magical — like stepping into a living fairytale frozen in time.
By late evening, I made my way to Urgench Airport for my flight to Tashkent, carrying with me the peaceful stillness of Khiva’s moonlit streets — a perfect farewell to Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road cities.
Day 11 — 17th October | The Final Stroll Through Tashkent & Journey Home
My last morning in Uzbekistan began with a visit to the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, one of Tashkent’s oldest and most colorful markets. Beneath its iconic turquoise dome, the air was filled with the scent of spices, dried fruits, and freshly baked bread. I treated myself to a bowl of fresh cream with kishmish (raisins) — simple, sweet, and deeply authentic.
From there, I took a cab to Magic City, Tashkent’s modern entertainment and leisure district. The wide boulevards, lively cafés, and pastel-colored architecture felt like a cheerful contrast to the ancient Silk Road cities I’d explored earlier. I wandered along its promenades, watching families and children enjoying the bright autumn day.
As evening approached, I returned briefly to my hostel, packed the last of my souvenirs — fridge magnets, local crafts, and countless memories — and headed to the airport. At Yess! Coffee, I sipped on an iced cocoa, quietly replaying moments from the trip — turquoise lakes, canyon hikes, nomadic villages, ancient madrasas, and the warm smiles that had filled every day.
With my evening flight back to India, my Central Asian journey came full circle. What began as a solo adventure across unknown lands ended as a tapestry of unforgettable experiences — mountain air, desert sunsets, and the timeless charm of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Reflections and Final Thoughts
As my plane soared above the glowing lights of Tashkent, I looked down at the land that had quietly transformed me over the past days — a journey that began with curiosity and ended in deep connection.
From the snow-kissed peaks of Kazakhstan’s Almaty to the sunlit domes of Uzbekistan’s ancient cities, every day had unfolded like a new page in a story older than time. I walked through canyons carved by wind and centuries, hiked to turquoise lakes hidden in mountains, and wandered through bazaars where voices mingled in Kazakh, Uzbek, and Russian — all echoing the pulse of the Silk Road.
There were moments of quiet solitude — sipping tea beside Issyk Lake, standing under the stars at Charyn Canyon, and watching the golden reflection of Labi Hovuz ripple at dusk. And there were moments of laughter, connection, and kindness — from tour guides who shared local legends to café owners who poured tea with a smile.
Traveling solo here wasn’t about being alone — it was about discovering how vast and welcoming the world can be. The mountains taught patience, the deserts whispered history, and the people reminded me that warmth transcends every language.
As I return home, I carry with me more than souvenirs — I carry stillness, strength, and a deep gratitude for this land that once connected East and West, and now, quietly, connected me to myself.
