Assalam o alaikum
I am travelling to Uzbekistan with family in December.
Flight is from Dubai to Tashkent and
Returning from Samarkand to Dubai.
My questions
1.How much prior the booking required for the fast train from Tashkent to Samarkand
2.I will be carrying a standard size travelling suitcase.
Is there room for this size in the Bullet train?
Book well in advance at least 3-4 weeks to be on safe side. We missed it and then had to take 6 hours train.
How was the weather in December? Was it reasonable?
We did the Tashkent and Samarkand trip. We had tour guide in Tashkent through our booking which was helpful. In Samarkand when we got down the train there were a lot of guides outside who were trying to sell their services. We chose a guy who charged us $45. He took us in his car and showed us all the places in Samarkand. Started at 09:30 and he dropped us back at train station at 17:00. He wasn't actual tour guide as he did not come inside the historic places.
Early June in Uzbekistan can get quite hot, especially in Bukhara since it is more exposed and less shaded. The heat can make exploring a bit tougher, but the cities still have so much history and beauty to offer.
In December generally can be chilly weather with occasional frost and sometimes light snow, though heavy snowfall is rare. I recommend to dress warmly with layers, especially if you plan to be outside exploring as it can get colder, especially at night and in the desert or mountainous areas.
Walikhum Salaam
- How much prior the booking required for the fast train from Tashkent to Samarkand?
Tickets for the fast train from Tashkent to Samarkand are generally available for booking 30 to 60 days in advance. I recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks prior to your travel date, especially during peak seasons or holidays to reserve a seat.
Economy class tickets cost around UZS 270,000 Uzbekistani Som (approximately £20 GBP) one way per person. Business class tickets are priced higher, at UZS 396,000 Uzbekistani Som (approximately £30 GBP) one way per person.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Uzbekistan Railways website or directly at train stations.
- I will be carrying a standard size travelling suitcase. Is there room for this size in the Bullet train?
Yes, you can bring a standard size suitcase on the bullet train from Tashkent to Samarkand.
There is ample space with overhead racks and dedicated luggage areas at the ends of each carriage. From my experience, I have seen people bring 2 large suitcases without any issues, and the staff are very helpful with placing them.
But keep in mind:
Luggage allowance - Allowed to carry up to 36 kg per person for free.
Excess baggage - Anything between 37 kg and 50 kg may incur a small fee per kilogram.
Strongly Restricted - Luggage over 50 kg is generally not permitted.
