Sights

Explore Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, known for its rich history, ancient cities, and vibrant culture. As a key stop along the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan boasts stunning architectural landmarks such as the Registan Square in Samarkand, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and the Shah-i-Zinda complex. The country is renowned for its beautifully preserved historical sites, including the ancient city of Bukhara and Khiva, offering a glimpse into the country’s Islamic heritage and Central Asian culture. Uzbekistan is also famous for its bustling markets, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture lovers.

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Uzbekistan

5 Days 6 Nights
Uzbekistan: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva

Days Plan

  • Arrival: Arrive in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan.
  • Morning: Check into your hotel and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Begin exploring Tashkent, a blend of Soviet-era architecture and modern structures.
    • Visit Khast Imam Complex, home to the famous Uthman Quran, one of the oldest copies of the Quran.
    • Explore Independence Square and Amir Timur Square, both significant historical landmarks.
    • Visit Chorsu Bazaar, a bustling market where you can get a feel of the local culture and try traditional Uzbek food.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner at a local restaurant. Try plov, the national dish, or shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
  • Morning: After breakfast, take a train or drive to Samarkand (approximately 2.5–3 hours). Samarkand is a historic city that was once a key stop on the Silk Road.
  • Afternoon: Explore the majestic sites of Samarkand:
    • Visit the stunning Registan Square, a grand ensemble of madrassas with intricate architecture.
    • Explore Shah-i-Zinda, a series of beautifully decorated mausoleums.
    • Visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane.
  • Evening: Stroll through the vibrant Bibi-Khanym Market and enjoy some local snacks. Dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek cuisine.
  • Morning: Continue exploring Samarkand’s iconic landmarks:
    • Visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an ancient astronomical center built by the famous Timurid ruler and scientist.
    • Explore The Mosque of Bibi-Khanym, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Central Asia.
    • Visit the Tomb of Daniel, a legendary site associated with the biblical prophet Daniel.
  • Afternoon: Take a walk through Samarkand’s historical parks and streets, reflecting on the city’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and try Uzbek specialties like lagman (noodle soup) and manti (steamed dumplings).
  • Morning: After breakfast, travel by train or car to Bukhara (approximately 4–5 hours from Samarkand). Bukhara is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant markets.
  • Afternoon: Begin exploring Bukhara:
    • Visit the Ark Fortress, a massive fortress that once served as the residence of Bukhara’s emirs.
    • Explore the Bolo Haouz Mosque, known for its stunning wooden columns.
    • Walk through the Bukhara Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming narrow alleys, caravanserais, and bazaars.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner in a historic caravanserai, with options for trying Uzbek pilaf and shurpa (a hearty soup).
  • Morning: Continue discovering the beauty of Bukhara:
    • Visit The Poi Kalon Complex, including the Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrassa.
    • Explore the Samanid Mausoleum, an architectural marvel dating back to the 9th century.
    • Visit the Chor Minor, a unique four-towered structure.
  • Afternoon: Take a trip to the Bukhara Synagogue, the home of a small Jewish community that has lived in Bukhara for centuries.
    • Explore the Magok-i-Attari Mosque, one of the oldest in the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring local folk performances or in a traditional teahouse.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Uzbekistan

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

"My trip to Uzbekistan was truly memorable! From the stunning architecture of Samarkand's Registan Square to the historic beauty of Bukhara, I felt like I was walking through a living history book. The people are incredibly welcoming, and the food is fantastic—don’t miss out on the famous plov! The Afrosiyob train from Tashkent to Samarkand was smooth and fast, making travel within the country very comfortable. If you're looking for a mix of culture, history, and adventure, Uzbekistan is a must-visit!"

— Rajesh Kumar

"Uzbekistan is a hidden gem for Indian travelers. We spent six days exploring the magnificent cities along the Silk Road, and I was amazed by the Registan Square and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum in Samarkand. The architecture is unlike anything I've seen before! The locals were so friendly, and the food was just delightful—shashlik and samsa were my personal favorites. The country is safe, easy to navigate, and offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Definitely worth visiting!"

— Amit Sharma

"Visiting Uzbekistan was an unforgettable experience. The historical significance of Bukhara and Khiva was fascinating. Walking through the ancient streets of Itchan Kala felt like I was transported to another era. The food was delicious, especially the manti and plov. The people were incredibly friendly and eager to share their culture. I also felt that it was one of the safest countries I’ve visited. Uzbekistan is perfect for those looking for a unique cultural and historical experience."

— Priya Reddy

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. These seasons offer the most pleasant weather conditions for travel, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the country’s historical cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, and Khiva.

Why Spring (April to June)?

  • Weather: The weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), which is comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Scenic Beauty: Spring brings fresh greenery, blooming flowers, and a rejuvenated landscape, especially in the countryside.

Why Autumn (September to October)?

  • Weather: The temperatures are warm but not overly hot, making it perfect for exploring the cities and historical sites. The average temperature is around 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
  • Harvest Season: Autumn is the harvest season in Uzbekistan, and you can enjoy fresh fruits like grapes, melons, and pomegranates in local markets.

Visiting Uzbekistan is a relatively straightforward process for travelers, and here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

1. Passport and Visa Requirements

  • Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry date into Uzbekistan.
  • Visa:
    • For Indian Citizens: Indian passport holders require a tourist visa to visit Uzbekistan. You can obtain a visa through the Uzbekistan Embassy or Consulate in India, or you may apply online for an e-visa if eligible. The e-visa system is available for most nationalities, including Indian citizens.
      • Documents Required: For a standard tourist visa, you will need:
        • A valid passport
        • A completed visa application form
        • Passport-sized photographs
        • Travel itinerary (flight and hotel bookings)
        • Proof of sufficient funds for the trip
        • Visa fee payment
      • Processing Time: Visa processing can take anywhere from 5 to 7 business days. The e-visa typically takes 2-3 business days.
    • For Other Countries: Many countries, including citizens of the US, EU, and Canada, can apply for an e-visa or obtain a visa on arrival.

2. Flights to Uzbekistan

  • Major Airports: The main international airports in Uzbekistan are:
    • Tashkent International Airport (TAS): The primary gateway into the country.
    • Samarkand International Airport (SKD): Popular for travelers heading to the historical city of Samarkand.
    • Bukhara International Airport (BHK): A smaller airport for visitors heading to Bukhara.
    • Urgench International Airport (UGC): Serving the city of Khiva and nearby regions.
  • Flight Duration: A direct flight from India (e.g., Delhi or Mumbai) to Tashkent takes about 3 to 4 hours.
  • Airlines: Direct flights are available with airlines like Air India, Uzbekistan Airways, and Turkish Airlines (with a stopover in Istanbul).

3. Currency and Payment

  • Currency: The currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS).
  • ATMs: ATMs are widely available in cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, where you can withdraw local currency. Credit cards are also accepted in many urban areas.
  • Currency Exchange: You can exchange foreign currency at airports, banks, and authorized exchange offices in cities.
  • Cash: It’s advisable to carry some cash (Uzbek Som) for smaller purchases, especially when traveling to rural areas.

4. Getting Around Uzbekistan

  • Public Transportation:
    • Trains: Uzbekistan has a well-connected train system. The high-speed trains, such as the Afrosiyob, connect major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. It’s a convenient and fast way to travel between cities.
    • Buses: Buses are available for intercity travel but are less reliable than trains. They are more commonly used for shorter distances.
    • Taxis: Taxis are available in most cities. It’s advisable to agree on a price before getting in, as taxis in Uzbekistan often do not use meters. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go and Bolt operate in some cities.
    • Car Rentals: Renting a car is an option, but driving in Uzbekistan can be challenging due to local traffic conditions. Hiring a car with a driver is a more popular option for tourists.

5. Language

  • Official Language: The official language is Uzbek. However, Russian is widely spoken, especially in larger cities and among older generations.
  • English: English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so it’s helpful to know some basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian, or use a translation app. In hotels, major tourist sites, and restaurants, English is more commonly understood.

6. Health and Safety

  • Health Insurance: It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers health, medical emergencies, and accidents during your trip.
  • Vaccinations: There are no mandatory vaccinations for Uzbekistan, but it’s advisable to be up to date with routine vaccines such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
  • Water: Avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available, and it’s safer to consume it.
  • Safety: Uzbekistan is generally a safe country for travelers, with a low crime rate. As in any foreign destination, stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas or markets. Follow local customs and respect cultural practices.

7. Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Uzbekistan, with mild temperatures and pleasant weather. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in desert areas, while winters can be cold.

8. Top Tourist Attractions

  • Tashkent: The capital city, home to landmarks like Khast Imam Complex, Amir Timur Square, and Independence Square.
  • Samarkand: Known for its stunning architecture, including Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.
  • Bukhara: A UNESCO World Heritage city with medieval architecture, including the Ark Fortress, Kalon Minaret, and Samanid Mausoleum.
  • Khiva: A historical city with a well-preserved ancient inner city called Itchan Kala, featuring the Kalta Minor Minaret and Juma Mosque.

9. Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress Modestly: Uzbekistan is a conservative country, so it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Greetings: A handshake is common, especially between men. Women may prefer a nod or verbal greeting in more traditional settings.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is common to tip around 10% in restaurants.

10. Food and Drink

  • Plov: The national dish, a flavorful rice dish with meat, carrots, and spices.
  • Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, often served with flatbread and salad.
  • Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.
  • Samsa: Pastry filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Tea: Tea is a significant part of Uzbek culture, and it’s often served at meals and as a social activity.