A Journey Through the Silk Road by Rail
The Silk Road has long been associated with distant lands, caravans of camels, and exotic spices and fabrics. Today, travelers can experience this legendary route in a modern way—by train. The Orient Silk Road Express is a chartered special train that follows the historic Silk Road routes, making stops across Central Asia. This journey takes passengers through Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan over the course of about 14 days.
Before the 81 passengers from 10 different countries board the train in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, they are treated to a glimpse of the country’s vibrant culture. A concert at the conservatory features Feruza Mamirjonova, a 22-year-old musician who plays the dutar, a traditional string instrument. She is Muslim but does not wear a veil, and her performance receives thunderous applause. “Uzbekistan is in every respect a country in development,” she says, reflecting on the nation's progress.
The adventure begins as the train departs Tashkent in the evening. While the city may not be particularly impressive, with its modern buildings, construction sites, and traffic jams, it serves as the starting point for the journey. Ali Burkhanov, one of the guides, clarifies that this is not a luxury train. Passengers in the more affordable categories share two toilets and one bathroom per carriage, and shower times are scheduled. Conductors clean and tidy up the carriages, ensuring that the train remains functional throughout the trip.
The compartments and corridors are decorated in a Central Asian style, with carpeted floors. The beds, which measure 184 centimeters long and 67 centimeters wide, offer a modest level of comfort. As the train rolls into the setting sun, the next stop is Khiva, a historic city enclosed by walls and often described as a “fairy tale from 1,001 Nights.” However, visitors must pay around $21 to explore the city’s monuments, including the Kunya Ark Palace, the harem house, and the Juma Mosque.
Swiss ceramicist Fränzi Iff, 46, finds inspiration in the intricate tilework and wooden doors of Khiva. However, she also notes the commercialization of the area, where tourists can enjoy tightrope walking shows, camel rides, and photo opportunities with fur hats and scimitars.
As the train continues its journey, it arrives in Bukhara, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, young craftsman Mahmud Mamurov, just 15 years old, demonstrates his skill by engraving patterns into a bronze bowl. He is part of a family tradition, and his work reflects the deep-rooted craftsmanship of the region.
Uzbekistan is known for its rich history of artistry, from embroidery to metalwork. The Silk Road was not only a trade route but also a cultural bridge. In Samarkand, the journey reaches its peak with the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum complex and Registan Square, where visitors are captivated by the blue and turquoise tilework and intricate designs.
Sarvinoz Hamroqulova, a weaver in a Samarkand workshop, spends seven months creating a silk carpet. Her dedication highlights the patience and love required for such work. Meanwhile, the train makes its way to Kyrgyzstan, where the landscape shifts from urban settings to vast mountains and meadows.
Lake Issyk-Kul, often referred to as the “pearl of Kyrgyzstan,” offers breathtaking views of towering peaks reflected in its dark blue waters. The journey continues to Kazakhstan, where the train ends its route in Almaty. There, travelers witness Soviet-era architecture and modern cafés, reminding them of the historical significance of the Silk Road.
This rail journey through Central Asia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, allowing passengers to experience the legacy of the Silk Road in a modern and immersive way.
