Must-see highlights of Uzbekistan

Must-see highlights of Uzbekistan

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Discovering all the highlights of a trip to Uzbekistan means stepping into a crossroads of ancient history, fascinating cultures and landscapes that take your breath away. Here's our pick of the sites and experiences we recommend, drawn from twenty years spent exploring Central Asia.

Samarkand

Certainly the most famous and legendary of Uzbekistan's cities, its name conjures up tales from the East, and its buildings tell the story of its rich history as a key stop on the Silk Road and capital of the empire built by the ruthless Tamerlane. Samarkand the Great may well be the most beautiful city in Central Asia, and one of the finest in the world, instantly recognisable by its countless blue domes, so typical of Uzbek and Islamic architecture.

Don't miss:

• The grandeur of Registan Square, three madrasas covered in mosaics, the beating heart of the city.
• The Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, Tamerlane's final resting place and a masterpiece of Timurid art.
• The Ulugh Beg Observatory, a testament to the region's scientific achievements.
• A walk early in the morning or at sunset, when the light brings out the colours of the domes and brickwork.

The Chimgan Mountains

Among the things to do in Uzbekistan, beyond visiting its extraordinary cities, there's the chance to explore some remarkable nature. Notably in the Chimgan Mountains, part of the westernmost reaches of the Tian Shan: the celestial mountains, stretching all the way to China. It's an ideal spot for long walks with outstanding views, a real draw for fans of the outdoors, wide open spaces and hiking. In winter, a ski resort welcomes snow sports enthusiasts to a stunning setting.

Not to be missed:

• Hiking the steep trails to discover a surprising alpine flora.
• Taking in the striking contrast between green peaks and dry valleys.
• Trying local specialities in the small villages along the way.

Khiva

An oasis in the desert, that's what Khiva used to be, once a stopover for caravans on the Silk Road. Today its old town, Itchan Kala, still shines behind its fortress walls. Wandering its narrow lanes, you'll come across remarkable sites such as the Djuma Mosque with its 218 carved wooden columns, the truncated Kalta Minor minaret, the Tash Khauli palace and harem, the mausoleum of Pakhlavan Mahmoud, the Islam Khodja madrasa and its bazaar. Every corner of the city is worth seeing.

Shanti expert tip:

• Climb the Islam Khodja minaret for an incredible view over the turquoise rooftops at sunrise.
• Wander through the golden evening light once the crowds have left the old town.

The Kyzylkum Desert

Looking for somewhere to really get away from it all in Uzbekistan? Head to one of the world's largest deserts, covered in red sand dunes. Silence rules in Kyzylkum, even though a few communities have settled there. You can even sleep in a yurt camp deep in the desert, taking in the vastness of the landscape and a spectacular sunset in shades of orange. The next morning, you might spot monitor lizards, wolves or jackals hiding among the thorny bushes.

Special experiences:

• A camel or 4x4 safari through the desert's otherworldly landscapes.
• Evenings around the fire with local musicians for a memorable cultural experience.

The Fergana Valley

The Fergana Valley is Uzbekistan's most populated region and the beating heart of Central Asia. It's also a cradle of Uzbek arts and crafts. Meet skilled artisans, for example at the silk workshops of Marghilan or the pottery workshops of Rishtan. Rishtan ceramics are among the most recognised in Asia, a craft passed down through generations. In the valley, the towns of Kokand, with its Djuma Mosque, and Fergana, with its Al Ferghani park, are also well worth a visit.

What the valley offers that nowhere else does:

• Wandering through traditional markets full of spices, fabrics and fruit.
• Sampling Uzbek specialities with a family of artisans.
• Taking part in silk-making or pottery, a rare chance to see traditional skills passed on.

Tashkent

The Uzbek capital isn't always top of travellers' lists, yet it's one of the essential stops when arriving in or leaving Uzbekistan. This Central Asian crossroads has plenty to offer, from its architecture, including the Khazrat Imam religious complex, the Djuma Mosque, the Kukeldash madrasa and Independence Square, to its cultural life, with museums such as the excellent Museum of Applied Arts. Visiting Tashkent means discovering a lively, genuine side of Uzbekistan.

Shanti tips:

• Explore the Chorsu Bazaar for a real taste of everyday Uzbek life, found nowhere else.
• Take Tashkent's metro, spectacularly decorated, to get around the city like a local.

Lake Aydarkul

Lake Aydarkul is a great spot for watching the many migratory birds that stop here to feed. Walk along the shore and swim in this vast stretch of water in the middle of the desert. Nearby, a yurt camp offers a memorable night's stay in a striking natural setting. With no town or village along its shores, the lake is all about untouched nature, calm and quiet on its soft sandy banks, an experience that delights everyone who visits.

Special moments:

• Watching the colours shift on the water at dawn, a truly timeless experience.
• Having a picnic by the lake and enjoying the desert silence, rare anywhere else in Uzbekistan.

Shakhrisabz

Shakhrisabz is linked to the famous Tamerlane, born in a nearby village and later made governor of the city 25 years on. While he made Samarkand his imperial capital, he didn't forget Shakhrisabz, building grand monuments that still bring the city fame today. Its architectural beauty and rich history make it one of Uzbekistan's must-see cities, from the imposing ruins of the Ak-Saray Palace, known as the "White Palace", to the stunning Kok-Gumbaz Mosque. Follow in Tamerlane's footsteps here.

Not to miss:

• Exploring the remains of Ak-Saray Palace, a symbol of Timurid power.
• Wandering the old town to soak up the atmosphere of Central Asia's historic cities.

Bukhara

Looking for a feast for the eyes in Uzbekistan? Bukhara is one of the first answers that comes to mind. The Ark citadel is one of Uzbekistan's essential sights, as is the old town with its maze of streets and lively traders. The whole city, once known as the Mecca of Central Asia, is worth exploring, with the Kalyan Mosque and its towering 47-metre minaret at its heart.

Specific highlights:

• Strolling around the Lyabi-Hauz pools in the evening as the city comes alive.
• Visiting the Nadir Divan-Beghi madrasa, with its unique decoration reflecting Persian art.
• Dining under centuries-old mulberry trees to soak up the gentle Uzbek evenings.

Each of these sites tells a chapter of Uzbekistan's history and reflects the diversity of its landscapes and traditions. At Shanti Travel, our experience lets us guide you to these essential places with tailor-made itineraries and rare encounters, for an unforgettable and authentic trip to Uzbekistan.