Travel
Station:
BBC iPlayer (GB)
Status:
To Be Determined
Start:
2026-05-11
Rating:
0/10 from 0 users
Michael travels through Uzbekistan in Great Central Asian Railway Journeys, tracing routes that echo the ancient Silk Road. This series sees Michael embarking on an epic railway exploration through the heart of Central Asia. Crossing desert landscapes and historic cities, he explores a region shaped by empire, trade and faith. Through encounters along the line, he examines how modern railways now link places that were once at the crossroads of the world.
There is no Next Episode of Great Central Asian Railway Journeys planned.
S1E1 - Tashkent
Michael Portillo embarks on a thrilling new railway adventure following the Silk Road through the most populous country of Central Asia, Uzbekistan.
Air Date: 11 May 2026 00:00 (CDT)
S1E2 - 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.
Air Date: 11 May 2026 00:00 (CDT)
S1E3 - Samarkand
Michael Portillo's railway adventure in Uzbekistan continues in Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia.
Air Date: 11 May 2026 00:00 (CDT)
S1E4 - 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.
Air Date: 11 May 2026 00:00 (CDT)
S1E5 - 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.
Air Date: 11 May 2026 00:00 (CDT)