Central Asia and Iran

Central Asia is a highly mountainous area where the great Asian cordillera is fused by the Pamir mountains, which is the second biggest mountain range in the world. Tectonic forces are still working there so the mountains grow about 6cm (2.25 inches) every year. Many of the glaciers are also on the move.
The region is an ethnic melting pot, with the basic stock flavored by centuries of Turkic-Mongol influence. The towns of Central Asia are as well a curious mix of the old - dazzling turquoise minarets with elegant Persian motifs side by side with Soviet architecture. In the old cities of Uzbekistan - the "Silk Road" cities - there are palaces and monuments which are preserved from the times of Timur and even earlier.


Uzbekistan and Aral Sea


Enlarge Uzbekistan map

If you are keen on ancient oriental history and culture, a visit to the ancient cities of Uzbekistan is a must. Most of these magnificent exotic sites are more than two millennia old, some like Samarkand are as old as Babylon and Rome. As a part of the famous Silk Road Uzbekistan has always been interesting for travellers. Getting there makes you feel like entering an ancient Islamic country where all traditions have been preserved since the very old times.
 


Fann Mountains


Enlarge Fann Mountains map

Narrow canyons with clear rushing rivers, high glaciated summits and clusters of lakes set amidst juniper forests makes this one of the most attractive mountain region in Central Asia.


Tien-Shan Mountains


Enlarge Tien-Shan Mountains map

Of all the mountains in Central Asia, the Tien-Shan (Celestial Mountains) are perhaps the most magnificent. Their upper reaches are forever swathed in snow and ice and lower down are well endowed with glaciers. Tien-Shan Mountains are considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Central Asia. The region is also rich in alpine lakes. The largest fresh water lake in Central Asia, Issyk-Kul Lake is the world's second highest lake.


All Central Asia

Central Asia is as geographically diverse as it is historically rich. It is a vast arena of desert, steppe and mountain ranges. For more than 2000 years Central Asia was involved in ancient east-west trade and a significant part of Silk


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Adventure, Outdoor, Culture Travel: Russia, Caucasus, Siberia, Central Asia