Monthly Archives: February 2011

Day 10: Windchilled in Bukhara!

Hoja Nasruddin's Statue at Lyabi Hauz

We woke up to a cold, frosty morning in Bukhara. There were several versions of what the days weather would be. Predictions ranged from a “mild” minus two to a “cold” minus eight!

All bundled up, we set off to explore the old town. Bukhara was gearing up for a round of Samarkand style reconstruction with working crews on overdrive all over the old town. This was disappointing for Nisha who had memories of the way the old town was before – unspoilt with its own old character and few signs of all this unnecessary polishing.

We started at Lyab-i Hauz: a tranquil old pool that defines the heart of the old town. In summer the old mulberry trees are in full bloom and provide shade to residents and tourists alike. The pool sat there uncomplaining in the midst of the reconstruction activity. It was peaceful and stoic,

Posted in Uzbekistan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Responses

Day 9: Three Show Stoppers, ‘I am a Disco Dancer’ in Shakhrisabz, Rip-off in Bukhara

Lakai panel (red) - Nisha's favourite

The best thing about travel is that, every once in a while, you stumble upon a gem that was nowhere in your to-do list (in Nisha’s case, her to-buy list). We had a really good break when we literally bumped into a display of captivating ceremonial hangings from the Lakai tribe. As we looked at them we were quiet for a while (a rare feat for the both of us); they were so beautiful. The Lakai tribe has played a historic role as horsemen, fighters and brigands in Inner Asia for centuries. Women of the Uzebk Lakai tribes embroider hangings that are exceptional, bold and extremely hard to get. The Arastan collection now has three of these prized pieces (though Nisha says she is not parting with the red one).

Giddy after the day’s find, we decided to cancel our train tickets to Bukhara and take the road instead. We

Posted in Uzbekistan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Day 8: Ulugbek’s Observatory, Registan and a Search Mission for Calligraphy

Calligraphy from the artist Nisha hunted down!

There are such names in the world, which unwillingly lead people to the world of dreams. The magic and fame of these words immediately impact your mind when you hear or read about them. There is such a name among them that attracts our imagination to itself, it is SAMARKAND. It seems that this name emerged from the whirlpool of clear and diverse colours, the scent of perfume, fabulous palaces, bells of caravans, pure melodies and yet misunderstood feelings.

Federico Mayor (Director General of UNESCO 1987-99)

It was our last day in Samarkand. And we couldn’t agree more with the sentiment above. Samarkand (despite the overzealous restoration) had captivated us and one visit was just not enough to soak in its history, its towering monuments and the stories of warriors, kings and artists who defined this city.

We started the day with

Posted in Uzbekistan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment
  • Welcome to Arastan

    An online store that curates rare and handpicked treasures from exotic bazaars along the ancient silk route.

    From gorgeous handmade carpets to striking objets d'art and fascinating tribal jewellery, each piece is a collectible with a story.

    So, come share in our journey and, perhaps, begin one of your own with Arastan…

  • To hear more about Arastan, our events and our products, please share your email address with us:
    Please enter your email address
    The Arastan Journey

  • Browse all our articles

  • Browse our archives

  • Visit Us

    As well as our online store we have more products on show at the new Arastan Studio in Bangalore. Opening hours and location details.