Uzbekistan Tour Packages

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly, safe yet fun tourist destination in Central Asia, Uzbekistan tops the list! It is commonly known for its stunning mosques, madrassas and mausoleums. But Uzbekistan has so much more to see! The iconic Aral sea, Karakalpakstan fortress, Nuratau mountains, Silk road cities and the world-famous Chorsu bazaar draw tourists from all parts of the world. Uzbekistan offers you the best of cultural attractions, adventure and ecotourism. Come, let’s get to know more about Uzbekistan

Know Your Uzbekistan

Time: GMT +5

Telephone Code: +998

Languages: Uzbek

Currency: Uzbekistani soum

Visa: Subject to nationality

Weather: Average high temperature 27 degrees Celsius; average low temperature -3 degrees Celsius

Best time to visit: April, May, September and (early) November

Clothing & Personal Care: Cotton and linen are recommended during Summer. Warm waterproof jackets during Winter.

Places to Visit in Uzbekistan

Tashkent

The capital city of Uzbekistan is home to many soviet style buildings. The surroundings near Amir Timur Square and Navoi Theatre are a must-visit! Few monuments like the 15th Century Sheikhantaur Ensemble, Yunus-Khan Mausoleum, Khazrati-Imam Complex and the 16th century have survived natural calamities and wars. Visit the old Tashkent near the Kolkuz Canal, go for a stroll in the bustling Chorsu market or go back in time by visiting one of the museums or Islamic architecture. The city attracts thousands of tourists every day across the globe.

Khiva

Out of the three ancient cities - Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara, Khiva is one of the smallest. It was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1990. One of the main attractions of Khiva is the magnificent Ichan-Kala. You can buy a two-day ticket that gives you access to numerous attractions within the old town walls. Another major attraction is the Kalta Minor Minaret. While the rest of the minarets are tall, the Kalta Minor is short and when it’s lit up in the night, it looks stunning! Visit the Islam-Khoja Minaret for some amazing views of the city.

Bukhara 

The oldest city in Uzbekistan. It dates back to 2500 years. Known for its trade, religion and culture you will feel you are in a different world altogether. It is home to more than 140 monuments that include the famous Poi-Kalan ensemble, Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasahs and the mausoleum of Ismail Samoni. It is worth spending at least 2-3 days in Bukhara to admire the arches and cupolas that will make you time travel back to the BC period. You can also indulge in some shopping and take home some souvenirs for long-lasting memories.

Samarkand

Samarkand is known for its breathtaking architecture. The popular landmark is Registan which consists of three madrasas and a public square. It is considered the hub of the Timurid Renaissance known for its cultural, architectural and scientific discoveries within the Timur empire between the 14th and 16th centuries.  Although you can see a little bit of modernity, Gur-e-Amir and Shah-i-Zinda remind you of the history of the city. It was one of the major trading centers as it sits between the crossroads to the east and west. Even in this day and age, silk weaving and textiles are one of the city’s major industries.

Shahrisabz

It is one of the most picturesque cities in Uzbekistan. It is also a part of the UNESCO world heritage site. The popular commander Amir Temur founder of the Timurid dynasty, was born in this city. When you visit Tashkent and Samarkand you will be finding his statues everywhere. Shahrisabz is also fondly referred to as the “Green City” as the city is well-covered with green trees and flowers. Your Shahrisabz trip is incomplete without visiting the remains of Ak-Saray palace, Kok-Gumbaz Mosque and Khazrati-Imam Complex. You can easily cover the entire city within two hours.

Must-Do Things in Uzbekistan

Eat Plov 

Uzbek cuisine is one of the most underrated cuisines. The dishes are just mouth-watering! You cannot leave Uzbekistan without tasting their national dish - Plov! Plov to Uzbeks is like Roti to Indians! It is made of rice, vegetables and meat (either mutton, beef or lamb). The entire dish is made in just one pot. Each province has its own taste and style. Plov is usually served in a large bowl where a group of people (foodies) can eat. The thought behind Plov is to bring the whole community together and bond over food.

Connect With Nature at Nuratau Mountains

Many tourists think Uzbekistan has only mosques, madrassas and mausoleums. What if we say it has deserts, snow-capped mountains, forests, rivers and lakes? One of the highlights is the Nuratau mountains. Researchers say that there is a presence of unique chemical elements, composite landscapes and unusual weather. The mountain range begins from the picturesque gorge by the Sangzar river and is flanked by the rocky pillars of Tamerlane’s Gates. The mountains are also home to some rare flora & fauna and species like Severtsov’s argali, bearded vulture, black vulture and golden eagle.

Camp at the Aral Sea

Will you believe it if we say there was the fourth largest sea in Uzbekistan which has now become a hot and arid desert? There were fishing boats, waves crashing on the rocks and hundreds of people swimming and sunbathing. The sea began to dry in the 1970s and by 2014, only 10% of the sea remained. The reasons for drying are still not known. Aral sea is now one of the cleanest and the most transparent in the world. Tourists can camp here to get a taste of Karakalpak culture and also there is an island of rebirth in the Muynak district which is considered a mysterious place in the Aral sea.

Go For a Stroll at Chorsu Bazaar 

When you are done visiting all the major attractions, your next-to-visit place should be the Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent. This is a traditional bazaar located in the old town of Tashkent which is more than a hundred years old. In short, this is the biggest and oldest bazaar in Uzbekistan. You get welcomed by the aroma of rich spices then you move to daily staples along with pistachios, almonds, apricots, etc. Fruits and veggies are available in large numbers. On the other side, you can also buy Jewelry, handicrafts,  gold embroidery, musical instruments, quilted men’s and women’s caftans, designer carpets, etc. You would need a good amount of time to cover the entire market.

In a nutshell, Uzbekistan is not only a beautiful destination but also offers everything under one roof for a perfect vacation. Make your dream destination a reality! You are just a tap away. See you in Uzbekistan soon! Happy Holidays!!