Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Islamic 7 Saints of Bukhara

Bukhara, the ancient city in Uzbekistan, has long been revered for its profound Sufi legacy. On this full-day private guided tour, visitors can enjoy the spiritual heritage of the Islamic Seven Saints. From the birthplace of the revered Sufi master Abdalhalika Gijduvani to the tomb of Khoja Arif Rivgariya, this comprehensive itinerary promises to enlighten and captivate. With comfortable private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, guests can explore these significant sites, gaining a deeper understanding of Bukhara‘s enduring Sufi traditions. Whether seeking spiritual enrichment or historical insights, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the heart of Uzbekistan’s cultural tapestry.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Tours In Bukhara.

Key Points

• This full-day private tour explores the significant Sufi heritage of Bukhara, including the birthplaces and shrines of the revered Seven Saints.
• Highlights of the tour include the birthplace of Abdalhalika Gijduvani, the founder of an independent school of Sufism, and the tomb of Khoja Arif Rivgariya.
• The tour provides an immersive experience into Bukhara’s spiritual legacy, showcasing the sites associated with the Seven Saints who shaped the city’s Islamic and cultural landscape.
• The tour includes private transportation, a licensed guide, and entrance tickets, with an optional local lunch available for an additional fee.
• The tour is rated 4.5 stars from 3 reviews, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and comprehensive itinerary covering the key Sufi sites in Bukhara.

Overview of Ancient Bukhara

Bukhara, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, boasts a rich history dating back over 2,500 years.

Renowned as the "Star of the Islamic World" and the "Holy City of Central Asia", Bukhara was once home to an astounding 360 mosques and 80 madrassas during the Middle Ages.

Legend even states that all Muslim cities descend from a light of grace that rises over Bukhara.

The city’s significant Sufi heritage, embodied by the influential Naqshbandi brotherhood, has contributed greatly to its revered status as a sacred place in Islam.

Bukhara’s centuries-old legacy continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

The Revered Sufi Brotherhood

Ingrained deep within Bukhara’s rich history is the revered Sufi brotherhood known as the Naqshbandis. This influential order played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s spiritual and cultural landscape for centuries.

The Naqshbandis were renowned for their:

• Emphasis on inner contemplation and mystical connection with the divine
• Teachings that blended Islamic theology with local Central Asian traditions
• Leadership by the Seven Saints, each revered for their wisdom and piety

The Naqshbandi brotherhood’s lasting impact is evidenced by the numerous shrines, mosques, and madrassas that dot Bukhara’s historic cityscape, serving as enduring testaments to the city’s deep Sufi heritage.

Abdalhalika Gijduvani’s Legacy

Revered as the founder of an independent school of Sufism, Abdalhalika Gijduvani‘s legacy continues to resonate within Bukhara’s rich religious tapestry.

Born in 1103 AD, Gijduvani established the Hadzhagan order, which emphasized spiritual purification and connection with the divine. His teachings and influence spread throughout Central Asia, establishing Bukhara as a prominent center of Sufi learning.

Visitors to Gijduvani’s birthplace in Gijduvan can feel the reverence for this illustrious figure, whose devotion and mystical insights shaped the spiritual landscape of Bukhara for centuries.

Gijduvani’s spiritual lineage, known as the Naqshbandi brotherhood, remains a cornerstone of Bukhara’s enduring reputation as the "Star of the Islamic World."

Khoja Arif Rivgariya’s Importance

Equally integral to Bukhara’s Sufi legacy is the revered figure of Khoja Arif Rivgariya.

As the successor to Abdalhalika Gijduvani, Rivgariya assumed leadership of the influential Naqshbandi Sufi brotherhood. Under his guidance, the order’s teachings and practices flourished, cementing Bukhara’s reputation as a center of Islamic mysticism.

Rivgariya’s burial site in Safirkon is a place of pilgrimage, where devotees seek blessings and spiritual enlightenment. His significance is underscored by:

• His role in propagating the Naqshbandi order
• The enduring veneration of his tomb as a sacred site
• His contribution to Bukhara’s status as a holy city in Central Asia

Sights of the Seven Saints

Within the historic city of Bukhara, the sites associated with the Seven Saints provide a captivating glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted Sufi heritage.

The tour takes visitors to Gijduvon, the birthplace of Abdalhalika Gijduvani, the first saint. Another prominent stop is Safirkon, where the tomb of Khoja Arif Rivgariya, a revered Sufi leader, is located.

Plus, the tour showcases other significant sites connected to the Seven Saints, offering an immersive experience into Bukhara’s rich spiritual legacy.

Exploring these hallowed grounds allows travelers to understand the profound influence of Sufism on the city’s history and its enduring importance in Central Asian Islamic culture.

Itinerary and Tour Inclusions

The private guided tour to the Islamic Seven Saints of Bukhara includes a comprehensive itinerary that enables visitors to enjoy the city’s rich Sufi heritage.

The tour features several key highlights, including visits to the birthplace of Abdalhalika Gijduvani, the founder of an independent school of mysticism, and the burial site of Khoja Arif Rivgariya, a prominent Sufi leader.

Additional stops along the way showcase other significant sites related to the Seven Saints.

The tour package includes:

• Private licensed guide and transportation
• Entrance tickets to all monuments
• Optional lunch for an additional fee
• Directly paid tips and photo/video fees at each site

Pricing and Booking Details

The private guided tour to the Islamic Seven Saints of Bukhara starts at $160.00, with the price varying based on the group size.

This full-day excursion includes a licensed guide, private transportation, and entrance tickets to all the monuments on the itinerary. Guests have the option to add a local lunch for an extra $10 per person.

While tips and photo/video fees aren’t included, visitors can easily pay $1-$2 per site directly at the museum entrances.

The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 3 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers.

Guest Reviews and Ratings

Guests have praised this private guided tour to the Islamic Seven Saints of Bukhara, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 3 reviews.

Reviewers highlighted the tour’s strengths, including:

• A knowledgeable and friendly guide who provided valuable insights into the Sufi heritage and significance of the sites.
• Efficient and comfortable private transportation that allowed for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
• The comprehensive nature of the itinerary, which covered the key sites related to the Seven Saints without feeling rushed.

With a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the rich Islamic history and spirituality of Bukhara.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Rules Regarding Photography and Videography on the Tour?

Photography and videography fees are paid directly at each museum entrance, typically $1-$2 per site. Visitors are advised to follow any specific rules or restrictions regarding photography and filming during the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Saints or Sites?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific saints or sites upon request. The itinerary can be adjusted to suit the interests of the traveler, providing a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Recommended Souvenirs or Local Crafts to Purchase in Bukhara?

Bukhara is renowned for its traditional artisanal crafts. Visitors can find exquisite handmade textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and jewelry. Popular souvenirs include silk ikat fabrics, intricate suzani embroideries, and delicate miniature paintings showcasing the city’s cultural heritage.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended or additional activities added. Guests can request longer durations or customized itineraries that incorporate more Bukharan sites and cultural experiences. The tour provider is flexible in tailoring the tour to meet individual needs.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Accessibility Considerations for This Tour?

The tour does not have significant physical requirements, but visitors should be able to walk moderate distances on uneven terrain. Accessible options are available, and the staff can accommodate most needs with advance notice.

Recap

Bukhara’s Islamic Seven Saints tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s profound Sufi heritage. Visitors can discover the birthplace of Abdalhalika Gijduvani, the revered tomb of Khoja Arif Rivgariya, and other significant sites. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the option for local cuisine, this comprehensive itinerary provides an enriching experience for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Bukhara’s spiritual legacy.