Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Everything You Should Know
Uzbekistan which is one of the seven independent Turkish states and located at the heart of the Silk Road, should be on every traveler’s bucket list due to its unique architecture, delicious food and friendly people. We have written everything you need to know before going to Uzbekistan in one article! Check out our muslim-friendly Uzbekistan tour prices!
Table of Contents
What Kind of Country is Uzbekistan?
First, let’s get to know Uzbekistan briefly: Uzbekistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia. It is covered with mountains, deserts and fertile valleys. It gained independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Today, it attracts attention with modernization efforts and economic development.
Why Go to Uzbekistan?
Cheapness of Expenses: Uzbekistan is a very economical travel destination compared to Western countries. You can meet your basic needs such as accommodation, food and beverage and transportation at very affordable prices.
Delicious Food: Uzbek cuisine is famous for delicious pilavs, meat dishes and fresh vegetables. You can consume meat at very affordable prices in Uzbekistan, as it has a culture that consumes a lot of meat.
Sincere People: Uzbek people are known for their hospitality and warm-heartedness.
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Where To Go in Uzbekistan?
Let’s take a look at the cities you should definitely add to your list when planning travel to Uzbekistan:
Tashkent
Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan and offers modern and historical texture together.
Important Tourist Attractions in Tashkent:
Independence Square (Mustaqillik Maydoni): It is the largest square in the country and one of the landmarks of Tashkent.
Amir Timur Museum: This museum is dedicated to Amir Timur and is an ideal place to explore the history of Uzbekistan. It is located in a beautiful park.
Tashkent Metro: It is world famous for its artistic design and plays an important role in urban transportation.
Samarkand
Samarkand is a historical city located on the Silk Road. It has entered the UNESCO World Heritage List thanks to its historical texture.
Important Tourist Attractions in Samarkand:
Registan Square: Located in the heart of Samarkand, it is a square surrounded by three madrasas with doors decorated with tiles.
Shah-i Zinda : It is a group of historical cemeteries and monumental buildings.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque: It is an impressive structure built by Timur.
Bukhara
Bukhara is one of the oldest and most important trade centers of Central Asia.
Important Tourist Attractions in Bukhara:
Kalyan Minaret: It is a building from the 12th century, which has become the most important symbol of the city.
Ark of Bukhara: It is the historical castle at Bukhara and contains museums.
Lyab-i Hauz: The historical pool and the structures around it form the center of Bukhara’s social life.
Khiva
Khiva is like an open-air museum with its historical texture intact.
Important Tourist Attractions in Khiva:
Itchan Kala: It is a historical area surrounded by walls within the city and hosts many important buildings.
Kalta Minor Minaret: It is famous for being left unfinished after it was built.
Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum: It is one of the important religious and historical structures of Khiva.
What to Do in Uzbekistan?
– Exploring Historical Buildings: You can discover beautiful buildings with their original architecture that reflects their history and culture.
– Shopping in Local Bazaars: You can visit the grand bazaars and local markets and buy things specific to Uzbekistan culture.
– Trying the Local Cuisine: You should not leave the country without trying various kinds of bread, unique Uzbek pilav and delicious meat dishes.
– Desert Travels: More than half of Uzbekistan’s territory is covered by dry lands and deserts. You can participate in safaris in the deserts and camp in tents that reflect the old Turkish culture.
What to Eat in Uzbekistan?
– Pilav (Palov): Uzbek pilav is a famous dish made with meat, vegetables and rice.
– Shashlik (Shashlik): Shish kebab.
– Ravioli: Pastry filled with meat or vegetables.
– Somsa: Pastry with minced meat or vegetables.
– Lagman: A type of noodle made with meat and vegetables.
What to Pay Attention to in Uzbekistan?
– ATM Shortage: It can be difficult to find a working ATM in Uzbekistan. You should keep a sufficient amount of cash with you considering this situation.
– Shared Taxi: Since taxis in Uzbekistan are shared, the taxi driver can take another passenger into the vehicle while you are in the taxi.
– Currency Exchange: You should only use official institutions to exchange currency. It is forbidden to exchange currency on the street or in unofficial offices.
– Tap Water: Tap water is not drinkable in Uzbekistan, so you should always have bottled water with you.
What is the Currency of Uzbekistan?
The currency of Uzbekistan is Uzbekistan Som (UZS). The value of Uzbekistan Som is lower than many currencies.
Is Uzbekistan Expensive?
No. Life in Uzbekistan is very budget-friendly compared to other countries. Especially market prices are cheap. For example;
– Museum Prices: Most museums have an entrance fee of approximately 10,000 – 30,000 Uzbek Som (1-3 USD).
– Water Price: A 1.5 liter water bottle costs approximately 2,000 – 4,000 Uzbek Som (0.2-0.4 USD).
– Meal Price: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately 50,000 – 100,000 Uzbek Som (5-10 USD).
– Train Ticket Price: Intercity train tickets (e.g. from Tashkent to Samarkand) are approximately 50,000 – 150,000 Uzbek Som (5-15 USD).
What is Uzbekistan Famous For?
Uzbekistan is famous for its rich cultural heritage and architecture due to its location on the Silk Road. In addition, the most commonly consumed dish in Uzbekistan is Uzbek pilav, called pilav (palov).
What to Bring from Uzbekistan?
– Carpets and Rugs: Hand-made carpets and rugs.
– Ceramics and Pottery: Ceramic products with colorful and detailed patterns.
– Silk Goods: Shawls and clothes made with Uzbek silk.
– Spices: Rich and varied spices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Is There Sharia Law in Uzbekistan?
No. Uzbekistan is a secular state and sharia law does not apply. Since it is a secular state, there are no restrictions on clothing.
In Which Month to Go to Uzbekistan?
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During this period, the weather is mild and suitable for sightseeing.
What Kind of Clothes Should be Preferred in Uzbekistan?
In Uzbekistan, summers are hot and dry; winters are harsh and cold. For this reason, light, breathable clothes, hats and glasses should be preferred in summer. In winter, warm clothes, a coat and boots should be worn.
How is Cuisine of Uzbekistan?
Uzbek cuisine is meat-based. In addition, dishes such as pilav, manti and kebab are common. Dishes are often flavored with rich spices. At the same time, various kinds of breads are available in bazaars and markets.
What Language is Spoken in Uzbekistan?
In Uzbekistan, people speak Uzbek and Russian in daily life even though the official language is Uzbek.
Where to Stay in Uzbekistan?
There are accommodation options for every budget in Uzbekistan. There is a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to boutique hotels and hostels. There are quality accommodation opportunities especially in Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent. Check out quality accommodation options on our Salambooking website!
How to Get to Uzbekistan?
There are direct flights from Turkey to Uzbekistan. There are flights from Istanbul to Tashkent and other major cities. Click to see flight ticket prices.