Three Tourist Train Routes to Connect Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Starting September 2025

Central Asia’s Silk Road charm is about to become even easier to explore. This fall, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will introduce three brand-new tourist train routes designed to connect their most iconic cities, making it a dream journey for history buffs, culture lovers, and Muslim travellers seeking a comfortable, stress-free holiday. Announced by Kazakh Tourism on 28 Aug, this initiative is part of a larger effort to promote cross-border exploration and strengthen cultural ties between the two nations.

Also read: Top Airbnbs in Almaty, Kazakhstan: Stylish Stays With Amazing Views

Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan scenic train travel: Comfort on the Silk Road

Travellers can now enjoy the romance of train travel without sacrificing comfort. These new routes are designed with a modern travel experience in mind, offering sleeping berths in contemporary coaches, partial meal plans featuring local flavours, and seamless transport services at each stop. Guided excursions are included as part of the package, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the history and culture of every city without worrying about logistics. With each journey lasting between five and seven days, these trains provide a slow-paced and scenic way to explore the Silk Road while letting the beauty of Central Asia unfold outside your window.

Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan tourist train routes: Three itineraries to book in 2025

The first route, organised by Khan-Turan Travel, will depart from Almaty on September 21 and journey through Turkistan, Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, with additional boarding and disembarking options in Taraz and Shymkent. This itinerary is perfect for travellers who want to explore southern Kazakhstan before heading into Uzbekistan’s historic cities.

The second option, offered by Turan Kazakhstan Travel, sets off on September 26 and takes travellers through Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, and Turkistan before returning to Almaty. This route offers a slightly different flow for those seeking more time in specific destinations.

The third and final itinerary, operated by Skyway, begins on September 30 and connects Almaty, Turkistan, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent, before looping back to Almaty. This route is ideal for travellers flying in and out of Kazakhstan’s largest city who prefer a seamless round-trip experience.

Muslim-friendly train travel in Central Asia

For Muslim travellers, this journey is more than just a sightseeing adventure—it’s an opportunity to explore two Muslim-majority nations where halal-friendly amenities are widely available. Both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are steeped in Islamic history, with sacred landmarks such as the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum in Turkistan and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand offering a spiritual connection to the region’s rich heritage. Halal meals are easy to find in most cities, and travellers will appreciate the availability of prayer spaces at many stations and attractions. For Muslim families, train travel also offers a safe, comfortable, and family-friendly alternative to multiple flights and hotel changes.

Why Central Asia’s train routes are a game-changer

This cross-border rail program marks a milestone for Central Asia’s tourism industry. For decades, this region has been a hidden gem for global travellers, and these train routes now make it easier than ever to explore two countries in a single itinerary. Imagine starting your morning with mountain views in Almaty and ending the day in Samarkand, gazing up at the blue-tiled wonders of Registan Square. Travelling by train also offers a more eco-friendly option than flying, perfect for travellers who want to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying the adventure of slow travel.

Travel tips for exploring Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan by train

Travellers eager to embark on these journeys should book early, as the packages include train tickets, hotel accommodations, guided excursions, and meals, making them highly convenient and in demand. Deciding which route to choose depends on the cities you’re most eager to explore, but all three itineraries promise an unforgettable adventure. Since autumn weather in Central Asia brings warm days and chilly nights, packing layers is essential. Muslim travellers may also find it handy to bring a small prayer mat and a compass app to make salah times even easier while on the go. For those looking to extend their trip, both Almaty and Tashkent offer vibrant food scenes, shopping streets, and modern amenities worth exploring.

Also read: 12 Breathtaking Destinations in Kazakhstan: A Muslim Traveller's List

Final thoughts: All aboard the Silk Road Express

With three new scenic train routes launching this fall, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are inviting travellers from around the world to experience the magic of the Silk Road in comfort and style. For Muslim travellers, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy halal-friendly meals, historic mosques, and cultural treasures while travelling aboard what feels like a moving hotel. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, fall 2025 is the perfect time to hop aboard and see Central Asia like never before.