Exploring Uzbekistan, Central Asia's Best-kept Secret!

The medieval paradise of Uzbekistan lies tucked between its fellow former Soviet republics in Central Asia. A solo traveller’s delight, this country holds a vast potential for exploration, owing to its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Having been nestled at the heart of the Silk Road in ancient times, Uzbekistan has witnessed the amalgamation of art, culture, and ideas for many centuries. Today this beautiful country stands with its doors open for explorers to discover its intricate secrets. Let’s have a look at some of the top places to visit in Uzbekistan, and embark on a journey of medieval rediscovery!

Samarkand

Samarkand, the largest of all the cities in Uzbekistan, is keenly evocative of the Silk Route. Lying in the valley of the Zarafshan River, this ancient city is as old as Rome or Babylon. Samarkand has been celebrated through history for its magnificent monuments and mystical grandeur. Explore the city’s graceful domes, mosaic-decorated mosques and lively markets. 

A remarkable remnant from the ancient Timurid Empire, the Rēgistan Square stands today as an elegant symbol of heritage and should be high on your list of places to visit in Uzbekistan. The Shah-i-Zinda, a palatial 15th century necropolis, is one of the most beloved Uzbekistan destinations. This exquisite mausoleum contains some of the most intricate majolica tilework from the Timurid era along with colourful tombs and ornamental carvings.  

There are no doubts that the experience of any place is incomplete without indulging in its local delicacies and drinks. With bars like Bochka for fresh-brewed beer and Hovrenko for wine-tasting, Samarkand is the perfect place to experience traveller’s bliss. In Gagarin Street you will find Karimbek, a vegan-friendly Uzbek-themed restaurant with an assortment of dishes to satisfy the flavors your taste buds might be craving.

Read More: Uzbekistan: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Tashkent

As the capital city, Tashkent is one of the most popular Uzbekistan destinations. Unique in its harmonized display of medieval and modern architecture, Tashkent is dotted with traditional bazaars, tastefully curated museums and cosmopolitan institutions. From strolling in the greenery around Independence Square, to getting charmed by the unique artwork at Broadway Street, and capturing panoramic views of the city’s skyline from atop the Tashkent Tower, there is a lot to do in Tashkent.

Add an element of nature to your Uzbekistan trip by visiting the Ugam-Chatkal National Park, where stand the mighty Chimgan Mountains, popularly known as the ‘Uzbek Switzerland’. Capture lyrical landscapes as you make your way through villages settled at an altitude of 1,720 m and get acquainted with the country heart of this former Soviet nation.

Bukhara

Go back in time as you explore Bukhara, one of the oldest destinations in Uzbekistan. Catch a glimpse of the city’s ancient architectural wonders – the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Kalon Minaret, and Char Minar. Bukhara’s oldest structure, the Ark of Bukhara stands tall as a gateway to the town’s legendary history and houses several museums in its now ruined royal quarters.

Notable as one of the oldest surviving structures in Central Asia, the Magok-i-Attari Mosque is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan. An epitome of architectural wealth, this sacred structure is ornamented with floral-carved terracotta tiles, latticed arch windows and octagonal domes, and has now been converted into a carpet museum.

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Khiva

Sandwiched between the vast Kyzylkum and Karakum deserts, the historic city of Khiva is a spectacular sight. A walk through the twisted, mud-walled alleys of Ichon-Qala will transport you to a fable-like setting, sprinkling a dash of fantasy into your Uzbekistan trip.

Famous for its long history as a trading post on the Silk Route, Khiva is today one of the most charming places to visit in Uzbekistan.  Explore the city’s ancient palaces, mosaic-adorned minarets and revered mausoleums like the Pahlavon Mahmud and the Kalta Minor.

Tick these historic cities off your travel checklist with an escape into the magical realm of Uzbekistan!

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