Jewels of the Silk Road & Tajikistan – LUXURY RAIL
Jewels of the Silk Road & Tajikistan – LUXURY RAIL
13 Days Starting in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan and ending in Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Visiting: Ashgabat, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent, Almaty, Dushanbe, Iskandarkul, Penjikent, Fann Mountains
Tour operator:
Tour code:
18522
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
- Evening drinks reception on the beautifully lit Registan Square, Samarkand
- Explore the historic, UNESCO honoured, cities of Khiva, Merv, Bukhara and Samarkand
- Absorb Tajikistan’s stunning alpine lakes in the Fann Mountains
- Experience the surreal sight of the Darvaza gas crater light up the night sky in the Kara Kum desert
- Wander through Khiva’s mosques, minarets, and vibrant bazaars
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Central Asia aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle train, following the ancient Silk Road through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan before disembarking and extending overland into the dramatic beauty of Tajikistan. Offering a dazzling exploration of the lands where civilisation began and where some of the world's great religious and political ideologies were born.
Traverse the magnificent 'Stans', a patchwork of countries that share a history of Soviet influence but fiercely maintain their unique identities. From the awe-inspiring mosques and vibrant bazaars of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to the serene, expansive landscapes of Kazakhstan, this luxury rail adventure is your gateway to one of the world’s most remarkable journeys.
Explore the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, where the striking architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara will captivate you, as well as venturing into the vast desert and bustling markets of Turkmenistan. The journey culminates in Tajikistan where you leave the train behind and cross into a remote and rugged land where stone villages dot the dramatic mountain landscape. Though travelling here may be challenging due to its rough roads and limited amenities, however, the stunning, untouched beauty of this hidden gem is unmatched. Tajikistan offers an authentic glimpse into a way of life rarely seen by travellers, making this the perfect extension to your luxury rail journey.
Travel through these extraordinary destinations in unparalleled comfort and style, while immersing yourself in the rich history, landscapes, and cultures of the Silk Road on this incredible luxury rail adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 – Ashgabat Arrival - Turkmenistan
Location: Ashgabat
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Welcome to Turkmenistan! Often referred to as the lovechild of Las Vegas and North Korea, this quirky nation will have you captivated from the moment you land in its fascinating capital.
Situated between the Kara Kum desert and the Kopet Dag mountain range, Ashgabat is a relatively modern city built upon the ruins of the Silk Road city of Konjikala and the Soviet city built after the devastating earthquake of 1948.
The city’s extravagant fountains, golden domes and towering modern buildings appear strangely incongruous in this desert setting.
Upon arrival you will board the . Once settled into your cabins, lunch will be served in the Restaurant Cars. This afternoon you have the opportunity to explore Ashgabat and highlights on your panoramic city tour includes visits to the National Museum and Wedding Palace.
National Museum of History and Ethnography of Turkmenistan
Visit the National Museum of History & Ethnography. The museum has a rich collection of ancient artefacts from Turkmenistan. More than 500,000 exhibits are displayed here. It has 9 halls, each dedicated to a certain period or theme. The museum reveals the variety of Turkmenistan’s landscape its flora and fauna, fossils and rare geological finds. The Hall of Independence illustrates the modern development of the country. The Hall of Ancient History presents a collection of flint tools from the Mesolithic era (50,000 years B.C.), used by primitive people in Western Turkmenistan, along with Neolithic ceramics and ornaments from the first human settlements along the northern slopes of Kopet-Dag
Kipchak Mosque
The Kipchak Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia which stands as a symbol of national pride, with its gleaming white marble facade, adorned with golden domes and towering minarets that dominate the desert skyline. It serves as a tribute to the nation’s late president and is surrounded by an impressive courtyard and the final resting place of the first president of Turkmenistan.
Wedding Palace
The Wedding Palace contrasts with its modernist, futuristic design. Resembling a gigantic, intricate star, this iconic structure represents a blend of contemporary style and national symbolism, and it stands as a vibrant hub for Turkmen celebrations.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 2 - Ashgabat & Darvaza
Location: Ashgabat
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A further morning of touring in Turkmenistan features a visit to nearby Nisa.
Old Nisa
This morning, you will explore the archaeological site of Old Nissa (a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site) Nisa is described as one of the first capitals of the Parthians. It was founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211BC), and is reputedly the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, although it has neither been established that the fortress at Nissa was a royal residence nor a mausoleum.
The  departs Ashgabat at lunch and makes a scheduled stop tonight at Ichoguz. You leave the train and make a short journey to Darvaza gas crater located in the middle of the Karakum desert. Known as the ‘Door to Hell’. The Darvaza area is rich in natural gas. While drilling in 1971, Soviet geologists tapped into a cavern filled with natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, leaving a large hole with a diameter of 70 metres. To avoid poisonous gas discharge, it was decided the best solution was to burn it off. Geologists had hoped the fire would use all the fuel in a matter of days, but the gas is still burning today. In the evening, watch the spectacular and fascinating view of the gas crater flame away into the remoteness of the Karakum desert.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 3 – Khiva, Uzbekistan
Location: Khiva
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your train travels towards Urgench, from where you will transfer to the ancient city of Khiva via rail.
Khiva
Khiva is a city of approximately 50,000 people located in the Xorazm Region of Uzbekistan. According to archaeological data, the city was established at the beginning of the Christian era. It is the former capital of Khwarezmia and the Khanate of Khiva. As one of the Silk Road’s most important trading posts and now a World Heritage Site, it lies at the crossroads of the routes between Mongolia, Russia, China and Persia. A truly magnificent sight to behold, it rises out of the desert to reveal a wealth of impressive architecture. Stepping back in time, discover its impressive mosques, bazaars and minarets within Khiva’s ancient walls.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 4 - Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bukhara is quite simply outstanding. Like Khiva, UNESCO sponsored the renovation of much of the city for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999.
The Ark
The highlight of this wonderful tour is a visit to The Ark, a fortified residence of the Emirs of Bukhara – the despotic and ruthless leaders who ruled until Soviet times. Your touring program will also transport you to the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, home to the iconic Kalyan Mosque, a living relic of traditional Islamic design. Stroll through the mosque’s large maksura rooms, pillar-domed galleries, and deeply recessed niches, and you will be transported to a bygone era.
Immerse yourself in the lively pulse of the city as we explore the bustling Trading Domes of Bukhara and gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a vibrant social hub cocooned by a pool and embraced by the soothing shade of mulberry trees and local tea rooms.
This evening, weather permitting, we will enjoy a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs – a unique farewell to an incredible city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 5 - Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
More so than any other town, just the mention of Samarkand instantly conjures up evocative images of the Silk Road. Founded in the 6th century BC, Samarkand’s stunning architecture hints at its former status as one of the most important cities in Asia and is particularly noted for its architectural remains from the 14th to the 17th century, when it flourished as the fabled capital of the Mongol empire of Timur and his successors.
Samarkand City Tour
Today you will visit some of its most significant sites including Registan Square, the refined elegance of the beautifully proportioned Bibi Khanum Mosque and the Ulag Beg observatory, one of the earliest Islamic astronomical observatories built in 1428.
Prepare for an unforgettable evening in Samarkand that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. As the sun sets and night descends upon this ancient city, you will be whisked away to the illuminated Registan Square, where an extraordinary spectacle unfolds. From your prime front-row seats, you’ll be treated to a dazzling light show that weaves the rich tapestry of Samarkand’s history and significance.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 6 - Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Accommodation Name: Golden Eagle Train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan and you will spend time touring this modern Soviet-style city which was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1966. Your tour of the city includes the Old Town, where traditional homes and religious buildings line the narrow streets and here in a small library you’ll be privileged to see one of Islam’s most sacred relics – the world’s oldest Koran. This is followed by a visit to the Railway Museum and the Museum of Applied Arts.
This evening, enjoy your dinner onboard the as your travel overnight to your next destination of Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 7 – Almaty, Kazakhstan
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Ritz Carlton Almaty or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, arrive into Almaty, Kazakhstan our final destination onboard the . Bid farewell to the Today you will take a tour of Almaty including a visit to Panfilov Park, located in the heart of the city, and home to the Zenkov Cathedral, a 19th century Russian Orthodox Church made entirely of wood.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Ritz Carlton Almaty or similar
Day 8 - Almaty To Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Location: Dushanbe
Accommodation Name: Serena Dushanbe or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Following breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Dushanbe, on the Varzob River, is the capital of Tajikistan.
Upon arrival, meet with your guide and driver before setting off on a city tour.
Dushanbe City Tour
Ismail Samani monument
Visit the Ismail Samani monument, honouring the first king of Tajiks and the founder of the Samanid State, whose influence extended across Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran during the 9th and 10th centuries.
State Flag Square
Located in the centre of the city, to the left of the Nation Palace, this flagpole entered the Guiness Book of Records as the tallest flagpole In the world. Standing at 165, with an area of 1800sqm, the width is 30m by 60m.
Botanical Gardens
Visit the Botanical garden with its many old trees – a favourite place for the Tajiks. Later, you will visit the local bazaar – Mehrgon, where you will feel the real spirit of Tajikistan and see the oriental art of trading.
Enjoy dinner this evening in a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Serena Dushanbe or similar
Day 9 – Dushanbe – Iskandarkul
Location: Iskandarkul
Accommodation Name: Local guesthouse or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will travel to Iskandarkul Lake. Iskanderkul is a mountain lake of glacial origin in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,195 metres on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the Fann Mountains. The area of the lake is 30000 ha. Today you will also see Niagara Fanns – a waterfall from which water falls from 35m.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Local guesthouse or similar
Distance & Duration: 130km, 2-3hr of driving
Day 10 – Iskandarkul To Penjikent
Location: Penjikent
Accommodation Name: Local guesthouse or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue your journey this morning to Penjikent.
Orientation tour
Visit the Museum of Rudaki. Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu-Abdallah Rudaki, who is considered by many to be the father of Persian Poetry. You will also visit the local bazaar and mosque.
Following lunch in a local restaurant, this afternoon explore ancient Penjikent – the ruins of the old Sogdian town founded in the 5th century and abandoned in the 8th century by Arabs. Foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples and city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. Sarazm ruins – one of the ancient settlements in Central Asia with a 5500 – year civilisation. In 2010, Sarazm was added to the list of Human Heritage by UNESCO.
Dinner this evening is in a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Local guesthouse or similar
Distance & Duration: 160km, 3-4hr of driving
Day 11 - Penjikent – Marguzor – Penjikent
Location: Fann Mountains
Accommodation Name: Rudaki guesthouse or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Haf Kul-seven lakes
Drive to Seven Lakes. Explore Haf Kul-seven lakes of different colours in the Fann mountains of Tajikistan. You will visit the following lakes: Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor, Nophin lakes (2139m), Khurdak, Marguzor, and Khazorchashma (2400m). Lake Khazorchashma in Marguzor valley is the most beautiful and clean lake in this valley.
Enjoy a walking tour between 6 lakes – Marguzor to Khazorchashma lakes, located at altitudes from 2000 to 2400 m. Hiking time is 2-3 hrs.
Enjoy lunch at a local house during your hiking adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rudaki guesthouse or similar
Distance & Duration: 80km each way
Day 12 – Penjikent - Dushanbe
Location: Dushanbe
Accommodation Name: Serena Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast drive back to Dushanbe. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before setting off to explore the National Museum.
Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities
Start your guided city tour with a visit to the Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities which exhibits primarily from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations: the Greek, Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Zoroastrian periods. The most notable piece in the museum is the largest, fifteen-hundred-year-old reclining Buddha statue.
Hissar Fortress
Lastly, you will visit Hissar Fortress, a historic site dating back to the 18th century and occupied until 1924. Nearby, you’ll discover two plain Madrassahs—one from the 18th century and the other from the 19th century. Further, a 16th-century mausoleum graces the landscape. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant, complete with an engaging show program to cap off your day of exploration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Serena Hotel or similar
Distance & Duration: 230km, 4-5hr of driving
Day 13 – Departure From Dushanbe
Location: Dushanbe
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today following breakfast, the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast
What's Included
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Five-star hotel accommodation in Almaty
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Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle train Service
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24-hour cabin attendant service
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Experienced Tour Management team
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Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
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Arrival transfer
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All gratuities – on and off the train
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Luggage porterage throughout the journey Dining
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Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
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Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Visas
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Items of a personal nature
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Travel insurance
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Meals and beverages not specified above
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard the Golden Eagle luxury train, with private en-suite cabins and 24-hour cabin attendant service, complemented by private transportation and a business class flight from Almaty to Dushanbe.
Accommodation
Experience luxury with five-star hotel stays in Almaty and Dushanbe, private en-suite cabins on the Golden Eagle train, and local guesthouses in Tajikistan, ensuring comfort and elegance throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided on the Golden Eagle train?
The Golden Eagle train provides private en-suite accommodation with 24-hour cabin attendant service.
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Are there any medical facilities available during the tour?
Yes, there are services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities available on board the Golden Eagle train.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You can expect freshly prepared meals on board using the finest local ingredients, authentic dining experiences in local restaurants, and a generous drinks allowance including international wines with lunch and dinner. There is also a special Golden Eagle Gala Caviar dinner.
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What is included in the Tajikistan extension of the tour?
The Tajikistan extension includes five-star hotel accommodation in Dushanbe, local guesthouses, a fully escorted English-speaking local guide, private transportation, and a business class flight ticket from Almaty to Dushanbe. It also includes 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, with a generous drinks allowance in restaurants.
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What are some of the key sites visited in Turkmenistan during the tour?
In Turkmenistan, the tour visits Ashgabat, including the National Museum of History and Ethnography, Kipchak Mosque, and the Wedding Palace. It also includes a visit to the Darvaza gas crater, known as the 'Door to Hell'.
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What historical sites are explored in Uzbekistan on this tour?
In Uzbekistan, the tour explores the ancient city of Khiva, the Ark in Bukhara, and significant sites in Samarkand such as Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Ulag Beg observatory.
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What unique experience is offered in Samarkand during the tour?
In Samarkand, the tour offers a unique experience of a dazzling light show at Registan Square, which narrates the rich history and significance of the city.
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What natural attractions are included in the Tajikistan part of the tour?
In Tajikistan, the tour includes visits to Iskandarkul Lake, a mountain lake of glacial origin, and the Haf Kul-seven lakes in the Fann mountains, known for their different colors.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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