Best Places To Visit In Khiva | Uzbekistan

The complex features stunning architecture, intricate tilework, and a rich history. Visitors can explore the throne room, harem chambers, stables, and watchtower.

Location: The Kuhna Ark is located in the center of Khiva’s old town, just inside the western gate of the Ichan-Kala city walls. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the main square.

How to Get There: Khiva is accessible by car, bus, or train from major cities in Uzbekistan. Once in Khiva, the Kuhna Ark is easily reached on foot from anywhere in the old town. Taxis can also drop you off at the entrance.

What Can See: Highlights include the throne room with its decorated mihrab and former throne of the Khans, the harem chambers with their ornate tilework, the watchtower offering panoramic views of the city, and the Zindan prison with its grim displays of torture devices.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the maze of corridors and rooms, climb the watchtower for city views, and learn about Khiva’s history as the capital of the Khanate. Audio guides and guided tours are available.

Conclusion: The Kuhna Ark is a must-see for any visitor to Khiva, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lavish lives of the Khiva Khans and the tumultuous history of the region. Its stunning architecture and rich decorative elements make it one of the highlights of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities.

who wanted to build a minaret so tall he could see Bukhara. The minaret features a distinctive turquoise-blue tiled exterior and stands 29 meters tall. It was abandoned after the Khan’s death in 1855.

Location: The Kalta Minor Minaret is located just south of the Kuhna Ark, in the heart of Khiva’s old town. It’s easily spotted from many vantage points around the city.

How to Get There: The minaret is within the Ichan-Kala city walls, so it’s a short walk from anywhere in the old town. Taxis can drop you off nearby if needed.

What Can See: Visitors can admire the minaret’s beautiful tilework up close and imagine what it would have looked like completed. The base features intricate geometric patterns while the upper levels have floral designs.

What Can Do: While you can’t climb the minaret, it makes for great photos from the outside. The surrounding area has a few shops and restaurants to explore.

Conclusion: The Kalta Minor is one of Khiva’s most recognizable landmarks. Its unfinished state adds to its mystique and makes it a unique example of Central Asian Islamic architecture. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Khiva.

The current structure dates back to the 10th century, though it has been renovated and expanded over the centuries. The mosque features a large hypostyle hall supported by 213 wooden columns, each carved with unique patterns.

Location: The Juma Mosque is located in the center of Khiva’s old town, just a short walk from the Kuhna Ark and Kalta Minor Minaret.

How to Get There: The mosque is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the Ichan-Kala. Taxis can drop you off nearby if needed.

What Can See: Highlights include the intricately carved wooden columns, the mihrab indicating the direction of Mecca, and the mosque’s beautiful courtyard. Visitors can also admire the exterior’s glazed blue tiles.

What Can Do: Non-Muslims can visit the mosque when it’s not in use for prayers. Audio guides provide information about the mosque’s history and architecture. Photography is allowed.

Conclusion: The Juma Mosque is a stunning example of Central Asian Islamic architecture and a testament to Khiva’s rich history. Its unique wooden columns and beautiful courtyard make it a must-see for any visitor to the city.

Pahlavan Mahmud was a 14th-century poet, philosopher, and wrestler who became a national hero. The mausoleum features a striking green-tiled dome and intricate tilework in the courtyard and interior.

Location: The mausoleum is located in the southeast corner of Khiva’s old town, just a short walk from the Kuhna Ark and other major sights.

How to Get There: The mausoleum is easily reached on foot from anywhere in the Ichan-Kala. Taxis can drop you off nearby if needed.

What Can See: Visitors can admire the mausoleum’s beautiful green-tiled dome, which is visible from many points around Khiva. The courtyard features stunning tilework, and the interior contains Pahlavan Mahmud’s tomb and more decorative elements.

What Can Do: Non-Muslims can visit the mausoleum to learn about Khiva’s history and culture. Audio guides provide information about Pahlavan Mahmud and the site’s significance. Photography is allowed.

Conclusion: The Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum is a serene and beautiful spot in the heart of Khiva. Its striking green dome and intricate tilework make it a visually stunning destination, while its history and cultural significance add depth to any visit to the city.