Penjikent Tours & Holidays
Penjikent Small Group Tours & Tailor-Made Holidays
Ancient Penjikent was a small but rich town of the Soghdians, an Iranian people who were among the most important peoples of pre-Islamic Central Asia. In their heartland, the Zarafshan Valley, they founded several city-states, as well as colonies along the ancient Silk Routes from Eastern Europe to the Chinese border and Mongolia. The town probably arose in the 5th century AD when its citizens were well established businessmen and landowners. In 722AD, Arabian forces besieged and took the town. ...
Ancient Penjikent was a small but rich town of the Soghdians, an Iranian people who were among the most important peoples of pre-Islamic Central Asia. In their heartland, the Zarafshan Valley, they founded several city-states, as well as colonies along the ancient Silk Routes from Eastern Europe to the Chinese border and Mongolia. The town probably arose in the 5th century AD when its citizens were well established businessmen and landowners. In 722AD, Arabian forces besieged and took the town. The last ruler, Devashtich, fled into the upper Zarafshan regions where he was captured and sentenced to death. For some 50 years, ancient Penjikent stayed a living place under the new rulership but towards the end of the 8th century, the place was given up and never resettled again.
Best experiences
Hike the Seven Margazor Lakes
Today head south to the beautiful Margazor Lakes, seven in total, with all a different hue of blue and green. The hiking paths take you around the lakes whilst climbing at altitude to 2,400m. Enjoy a picnic with stunning views during the excursion.
Wander the ruins of Penjikent
Once home to 20,000 people during the early days of the Silk Road, the 2,000-year-old ruins of Penjikent in the Zerafshan Valley is a local highlight. Wandering the ruined streets one can easily imagine the well-laden caravans that would have passed this way.OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY
