A Week in Muscat, Wadi Beni Khalid, Bimna Sinkhole, Samarkand, Tashkent, Bukhara

Friday October 20: Muscat

Start your trip by exploring the capital city of Oman, Muscat. In the morning, visit the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, an architectural marvel. Afternoon can be spent at the Mutrah Souq, where you can shop for traditional Omani souvenirs. In the evening, head to the picturesque Mutrah Corniche to enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
  • Mutrah Souq: Cost: Varies, Time: 2 hours
  • Mutrah Corniche: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Saturday October 21: Wadi Beni Khalid

Embark on a scenic journey to Wadi Beni Khalid, a stunning desert oasis. In the morning, explore the wadi's crystal-clear pools and take a refreshing swim. Afternoon can be spent hiking through the surrounding canyons and admiring the natural beauty. In the evening, relax and enjoy a traditional Omani meal under the starry sky.

  • Wadi Beni Khalid: Cost: Free, Time: Full day
Sunday October 22: Bimna Sinkhole

Discover the hidden gem of Bimna Sinkhole. In the morning, take a dip in the turquoise waters of the sinkhole and unwind in its tranquil surroundings. Afternoon can be spent picnicking by the sinkhole and enjoying the scenic views. In the evening, visit the nearby Quriyat Fish Souq to experience the local seafood market.

  • Bimna Sinkhole: Cost: Free, Time: Half day
  • Quriyat Fish Souq: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Monday October 23: Samarkand

Travel to the ancient city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan. In the morning, visit the iconic Registan Square, adorned with stunning madrasahs. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Siyob Bazaar.

  • Registan Square: Cost: Free, Time: 2 hours
  • Bibi-Khanym Mosque: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Shah-i-Zinda: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Siyob Bazaar: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour
Tuesday October 24: Tashkent

Explore the capital city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent. In the morning, visit the impressive Kukeldash Madrasah and the nearby Chorsu Bazaar. Afternoon can be spent at the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, learning about the country's rich heritage. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Amir Temur Square.

  • Kukeldash Madrasah: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Chorsu Bazaar: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour
  • State Museum of History of Uzbekistan: Cost: Varies, Time: 2 hours
  • Amir Temur Square: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
Wednesday October 25: Bukhara

Travel to the historic city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. In the morning, visit the UNESCO-listed Bukhara Historic Centre and explore its remarkable architecture. Afternoon can be spent wandering through the bustling Lyab-i-Hauz complex. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Uzbek meal at one of the local restaurants.

  • Bukhara Historic Centre: Cost: Varies, Time: 2 hours
  • Lyab-i-Hauz: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
  • Local restaurant: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour
Thursday October 26: Samarkand

Return to Samarkand to further explore the city's cultural treasures. In the morning, visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, known for its astronomical innovations. Afternoon can be spent admiring the beauty of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum and the Afrasiyab Museum. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Uzbek dance performance.

  • Ulugh Beg Observatory: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour
  • Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour
  • Afrasiyab Museum: Cost: Varies, Time: 2 hours
  • Uzbek dance performance: Cost: Varies, Time: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Rustaq Castle in Muscat, a historic fortress with panoramic views. In Samarkand, don't miss the Shah-i-Zinda complex, a stunning collection of mausoleums. For a taste of local life, explore the narrow alleys of Bukhara's Jewish Quarter, filled with traditional houses and small shops. These hidden gems offer unique experiences without breaking the bank.

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