Great Central Asian Railway Journeys

Tashkent to Samarkand

Michael Portillo continues his railway tour on Tashkent’s suburban electric railway, and in Samarkand, witnesses the magnificent architecture of the Registan.

Samarkand

Michael Portillo’s railway adventure in Uzbekistan continues in Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia.

Samarkand to Bukhara

Michael uncovers the Central Asian origins of the apple in the lush oasis surrounding Samarkand, and stands in the shadow of the fortified Ark of Bukhara.

Bukhara to the Kyzylkum Desert

Michael Portillo’s railway adventure through Uzbekistan reaches its finale in the historic city of Bukhara. He visits a centuries-old Jewish community and experiences the life of nomadic tribes.