Top 10 things to do in Uzbekistan

One of the less popular destinations among travelers, Uzbekistan is a gem of Central Asia. This country is a perfect mixture of history, culture, and natural sightseeing and there are many interesting things to do in Uzbekistan. With Samarkand and Bukhara as the old cities of the Silk Road, desert views, and bazaars, there is something for everyone. This is particularly so because the country’s rich cultural heritage is well preserved and documented, hence, anyone interested in history, adventure, or culture will find a lot to do in Uzbekistan.

If you are interested in what can be interesting to do in Uzbekistan, be prepared for a great time! Uzbekistan has many fascinating historical sites, mouth-watering food, and beautiful landscapes which make it an ideal place for an unconventional vacation. Whether you are considering a cultural city tour or seeking adventurous activities, this friendly guide will provide you with a list of the 10 must-see attractions in Uzbekistan. Ready to explore? Great, let’s go on the adventure.

Here are the Top 10 things to do in Uzbekistan

1. Explore the Timeless Silk Road Cities

The cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are the most famous and give a sense of the country’s history as a stop on the Silk Road. These historic cities are characterized by great Islamic architecture and are hosts to amazing architectural wonders. The breath-taking Registan Square with its luxurious madrasahs, and the Ark Fortress in Bukhara, a former palace, now a museum are two of them. Walking through the paved streets of these historic centers you will be able to recall the fact that they were once the major trading centers between the East and the West. Traveling to these cities is like taking a historical tour.

2. Marvel at the Shah-i-Zinda Complex in Samarkand

Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand is an incredible place, a cemetery of mausoleums that are decorated with tiles and blue ceramics. The complex is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and is a bright representative of Islamic architecture. Strolling through its tight and winding streets and gazing at the bright-colored tiles, one would think he is in the Middle Ages. The architectural significance of the site is complemented by historical value – according to local legends, Kusam ibn Abbas, the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, is buried on the site. It is a quiet and sacred place.

3. Stroll through the Historic Bukhara

Bukhara is a city that is listed as a World Heritage and is a museum in the open air. Its old town is rather picturesque and contains marvelous mosques, madrasahs, and craft markets. Among the attractions, one should mention the Bukhara Fortress or the Ark, which has been existing for centuries and symbolizes the importance of the city. When you are walking in the maze-like alleys, you can see the old caravanserais and beautiful minarets. The markets are an opportunity to buy souvenirs and spices of local production, which will give an idea of the city’s atmosphere. Bukhara’s timeless beauty is one of the many things that will make you remember your trip.

4. Experience the Local Markets in Tashkent

Tashkent the capital of Uzbekistan has a vibrant fusion of both the ancient and the modern. Although there are new-style shopping complexes in Tashkent, the real life and soul of the city is in the local bazaar, especially the Chorsu Bazaar. Here one can buy everything, from meat and vegetables to handmade souvenirs. The smell of spices, dried fruits and fresh bread is in the air, and sellers shout aloud their offers. It is a perfect spot to have a conversation with the people and to get a feel of the Uzbek culture. It is also the right place to buy such local crafts as woven carpets, pottery, and colorful scarves for souvenirs.

5. Relax by the Aral Sea

The Aral Sea which used to be the fourth-largest lake in the world has become an indicator of environmental transformation. While it is now significantly less active than it once was, the area is still very moving. Tourists can walk through the territory and find out about the current environmental problems in Uzbekistan. The Aral Sea Memorial also exists near to it and it shows the effect of the diminishing sea. However, there is still a certain kind of beauty in the region’s environmental problems: it remains stunningly calm and desolate. It’s a place where one can think about how delicate nature is, and how much should be done to preserve it.

6. Take a Camel Ride in the Kyzylkum Desert

Camel riding in the Kyzylkum Desert is exciting and unforgettable. Huge sand hills are extending to the horizon and the best way to explore the area is to ride a camel. The sky offers a great view during the sunset, and the sand turns into a pool of different colors of the rainbow. You will also enjoy the serenity of the desert, and the only thing you hear is the sound of camel footsteps. If you are an adventurous person, or just love nature, the Kyzylkum Desert will be an excellent place to visit.

7. Visit the Juma Mosque in Khiva

The Juma Mosque in Khiva is a great example of the architectural opportunities of Uzbekistan. Constructed in the 10th century, this temple is famous for its wooden pillars, which are elaborated and, to the greatest extent, restored. The mosque is situated in the area of the old city which is Khiva, characterized as a living museum with its buildings preserved in medieval architecture. On the inside, the atmosphere of the mosque is serene from the noises of the outside world, making it a quiet place. The city itself is a network of narrow streets, where tourists can see some of the most stunning architectural monuments of Uzbekistan and get acquainted with the ancient world.

8. Take a Dip in the Chimgan Mountains

Chimgan Mountains are located near Tashkent and it is good for those people who like active rest in nature and sports. They afford chances in hiking and mountain biking in the summertime and skiing in the winter season. The views on top are breath-taking, one can see how big the place is below. In summer, it is cool and green, and thus the best chance to avoid the hot summer sun of the city. Chimgan Mountains are perfect for those people who want to have a thrilling holiday and do not lose the opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous views of Uzbekistan.

9. Discover the History at the Ulugh Beg Observatory

The Ulugh Beg Observatory is a place that should be of interest to lovers of history and history lovers in general and astronomy in particular. This observatory is of the fifteenth century and is located in Samarkand, it was founded by Ulugh Beg who was also an astronomer and was the grandson of Timur. It gives an insight into the advanced level of knowledge of astronomy of the given period by conserving its tools and other artifacts. Today Ulugh Beg is remembered for his scientific accomplishments and his work. Visiting this wonderful place opens the opportunity to observe the growth of science in the Middle Ages and to learn more about the history of the intellectuals of Uzbekistan.

10. Explore the Ancient City of Shakhrisabz

Shakhrisabz is an old city of considerable historical significance for the country as it was the birthplace of the great leader Timur. This town is also blessed with so many beautiful places, the Ak-Saray Palace and the Dorut Tilavat Complex among them. They are the architectural works that reflect the potentate of the Timurid Empire. Tourists will be able to find out more about one of the most powerful empires of Central Asia if they pay a visit to Shakhrisabz. It is a very calm city and all the buildings are very ancient and marvelous, it is a good place to have a look at the tradition and heritage given by Timur and his descendants that’s why it is good to visit it during the travel in Uzbekistan.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Uzbekistan is a country that will provide a great number of unique and exciting experiences starting from the legendary cities of Samarkand and Bukhara and ending with the calm and silent Kyzylkum desert and the Aral Sea. As it has been evidenced above, there are so many wonderful things to do in Uzbekistan and this means that every traveler is likely to be fascinated by something. Shah-i-Zinda is a historical site that is very famous in Uzbekistan while Tashkent’s bazaars are a shoppers’ paradise, Uzbekistan’s natural resources are also incredible.

Therefore, if someone wants to have a good time in Uzbekistan, this country will be ready to amaze you at every corner. When planning your travel be sure to factor in its historic cities, beautiful landscapes, and warm residents. Independently of the fact whether you are going to use our services and visit Uzbekistan with a comprehensive Uzbekistan tour package or it is going to be a short vacation, there are always some unforgettable moments awaiting you. Please look up the requirements of an Uzbekistan visa before you travel and be prepared to be enchanted by one of the most enchanting countries in Central Asia.

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