2024 Bukhara Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

7 days itinerary in Uzbekistan

#myitinerary I recently went in Uzbekistan with my boyfriend and stayed 8 days. Here following the results of many months of researches, I hope it can be helpful: Day 1 - 2 Samarkand - Amir timur mausoleum - Registan square with its 3 madrasah, i suggest you to visit it after 5-6 PM for the sunset - Bibi khanym mosque - Syoob bazar - Hazrat mosque - Shah-I-zinda mausoleum In my opinion, the most beautiful one it is Shah-I-zinda mausoleum and the Registan is just breathtaking. *The names of the attractions could be a bit different due to differences of translation from the Cyrillic to Roman letters. If you have time you could visit also: - Tomb of Daniel - Ulubek observatory - Paper making factory - Pottery factory Day 3 Tashkent - Subway stations, they were mostly built during the Soviet time and you can feel it. All stops are decorated differently, the oldest ones and the most beautiful ones are on the red and blue lines. My favorite subway stations were: alisher navoi and kosmonatvlar - Eat Plov at Besh Qozon under the Tashkent Television Tower, you won’t regret it! - Chorsu bazar 🚂 🌜night train from Tashkent to Khiva - around 16-17 hours Day 4 Khiva The old city of Khiva is called Ichan Kala and is quite small and walkable. I suggest you to book your stay inside the city or just out of city walls. - Khuna ark - City wall - Tash kauli palace - Pahlavan Mahmoud mausoleum - Islam khodja minaret - Juma mosque FYI there’s one cumulative ticket for almost all museums and palaces/mosques in Ichan Kala. The price is 200k som. We had dinner at Old Terrassa, the food was amazing and the view very good. From the restaurant Terrassa, which is probably 100 meters more central than old Terrassa the view is very great! I recommend to book in advance the table outside. Day 5 - 6 Bukhara - Kalon minaret by night - Chor minor - Ulugh beh & abdulaziz khan madrassa - Ark of Bukhara - Bolo- Hausa mosque I recommend to eat in Old Bukhara restaurant, good food and environment. Day 7 Nurata - desert - swim in the Aydarl lake - stay in a local yurt or guesthouse The last day of activities we decided to go to Nurota and have a tour in desert and see the Ayrdal Lake, because in the whole trip it missed a bit of nature for us. We organized the whole trip with a tour guide, that came to Bukhara to pick us up and drove us in the desert and to lake. The lake is immense and clean. We arrived there in the north part in the afternoon, we swam one hour and head back to Samarkand for our next day flight. #mytravelhacks #localguides #historicallandmarks #trip #uzbekistan #mosquemarvels #samarkand #Tashkent #bukhara #khiva

Ark of Bukhara

Visiting the Ark of Bukhara was an incredible historical experience 🏰. This ancient fortress reflects the grandeur of medieval architecture. I wandered through the historic buildings and arcades, exploring museums that tell the stories of empires past 🏛️. From the top of the fortress walls, the panoramic view of the ancient city of Bukhara was captivating, giving a sense of stepping back in time 📸. The serene and history-rich atmosphere made the visit very special. The Ark of Bukhara is a place worth visiting for anyone interested in ancient history and culture.

The madrasah built by the last direct descendant of Genghis Khan

You can come across many enchanting buildings in Uzbekistan and one of them is Emir-Alim-Khan Madrasah. Emir Seyyid Mir Mohammed Alim Khan was the last emir of the Emirate of Bukhara. He was also the last direct descendant of Genghis Khan to serve as a national ruler. He was overthrown in 1920 by the Red Army under the command of Bolshevik general Mikhail Frunze. The Emir Alim Khan Madrasah, now used as a children's library, was built under his reign right behind the Kalon Minaret. Despite being built in the 20th century, the madrasah style was constructed in 18th century style to match the nearby buildings, including the Mir-i-Arab madrassah and the Kalan mosque. #uzbekistan #bukhara

Bukhara 2-day route planning guide, a Silk Road gem more worth visiting than Samarkand

Going to Uzbekistan, you can't miss these three World Heritage ancient cities - Samarkand, Khiva, and Bukhara. If Samarkand symbolizes the peak of Central Asian ancient architecture, and Khiva is the real version of One Thousand and One Nights, then Bukhara, with a history of 2,500 years, is much more low-key, still retaining the life of thousands of years. · Many people will say that the restored Samarkand is the Disneyland of Central Asia. Although it is extremely exquisite, the matching historical atmosphere is far away. Bukhara, also a gem of the Silk Road, is very restrained in restoration, without large-scale reconstruction, and the decoration of the building has not been repainted, only some preserved historical buildings have been converted into restaurants, hotels, still maintaining the state of the old city. · Although Bukhara has 140 historical buildings, the area for tourists to explore is not large, almost all concentrated in the old city area, if you add the Emir's Summer Palace in the suburbs, the arrangement of 2 days and 1 night is very suitable, below is my itinerary in Bukhara, you can refer to. · 🚸About the itinerary DAY1: Samarkand-Bukhara (Kalon Mosque→Ulugbek Medressa→Abdulaziz Khan Medressa→Divab-Beghi→Chor Minor Medressa→Nadir Divan-BegiMedressa) DAY2: Bukhara (Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace→Ark of Bukhara→Bolo KhauzMosque)-Tashkent · 🚗About transportation The best way to visit Bukhara is Citywalk, most of the attractions are next to each other, the walking time is no more than 5 minutes, only Chor Minor Medressa is a bit far, but it's only 20 minutes to walk. Only the Emir's Summer Palace needs a taxi, but it's only a few kilometers, it's very convenient. For large transportation, Samarkand and Tashkent both have high-speed trains to Bukhara, but there are not many trains, so you need to buy tickets in advance during the peak season. There are also buses between cities, but it takes a long time, suitable for friends with plenty of time. · 🕌About attractions ✅Kalon Mosque: The landmark of Bukhara, especially the Kalon Minaret, is one of the few buildings in Uzbekistan before the Mongol period. But the mosque itself is not worth seeing, not worth buying a ticket to go in. ✅Ulugbek Medressa and Abdulaziz Khan Medressa: Two facing medressas, the former was built earlier, decorated simply, the latter's highlight is the colorful honeycomb-shaped arch on the door, representing the ancient architecture of Bukhara, there is a room in the medressa that requires a separate ticket, worth a visit, where you can see the complex original decoration and the mysterious figure under the decoration. ✅Chor Minor Medressa: The internet celebrity of Bukhara, the cover of the Central Asia edition of 'Lonely Planet', a medressa that doesn't look like a medressa. ✅Nadir Divan-BegiMedressa: Now a restaurant, the biggest highlight is the 'heretical' peacock, lamb and sun pattern on the front door. The statue of Afanti in front of the medressa is also the most checked-in place for Chinese people in Bukhara. ✅Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace: The residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, and the only surviving palace of the Bukhara rule, a good medicine for treating aesthetic fatigue. ✅Ark of Bukhara: The west gate and attached castle of the Bukhara Khanate period, now transformed into a museum, although it looks big, there are not many places to visit. ✅Bolo KhauzMosque: The mosque is not big, but it has the highest carved wooden column in Uzbekistan and a super exquisite caisson.

Palov was not available to the general population until the 1930s, the Soviet era. Traditionally only men cooked the dish, but when the Soviets took over control of the country, they liberated women, who were then also allowed to prepare it. Since then, however, according to food scholar Nancy Rosenberger (writing in 2012), "the pendulum was swinging back, if it had ever swung very far". The basis is meat, usually mutton, with vegetables (carrots and onions), fried in qurdiuq (fat from the sheep's tail end). The mixture of onion and thinly cut carrot is called zirvak, and it is compared to European soffrito. Often garbanzos and raisins are added, and instead of mutton all kinds of other basic ingredients can be used, including stuffed grape leaves or poultry. The meat is either boiled or fried with the zirvak. The rice is cooked by being soaked and then placed on top of the other ingredients, so it steams--in contrast to other popular ways of making pilaf, where rice is fried, and the other ingredients added, and then the entire dish being cooked in water.#gooutside #summervacation

Bukhara ancient city

Getting There - many train n buses from Tashkent Attractions - ancient city, all city is an attraction Hotels - many hotels available Food & Restaurants - many cheap and delicious restaurants Shopping - many street vendor to buy gifts #bukhara #ancientcity #ancient #uzbekistan #travelinspiration #adventure

I had a comfortable and unexpectedly great trip because of my travel buddies from Spain and Slovenia. We have roamed around the main Uzbekistan cities such as Tashkent, Samarkand, Bhukara. Still unbelievable that I got to meet such beautiful persons on my solo trip, Met them in a train journey from Tashkent to Samarkand in Uzbekistan Railways. Travel is to meet some unexpected good people around the world. of course the world so small to miss the people ♥️ Keep traveling, the world has many things to show you!!

[Bukhara] My favorite madrasah [Uzbekistan]

There are many beautiful Islamic buildings in Uzbekistan, but I would like to introduce my favorite madrasah 😸 Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah The mosaics here are so cute that anything you do will look great! (I think) lol Islam is against idolatry, so it is rare to see animals depicted, but this is a very rare madrasah (theological school) that goes against the teachings of Islam, with two phoenixes, a deer, and a human face depicted 🤓✏️ Unfortunately, I couldn't go inside, probably because I went on a Friday 🥲 *In Islam, Friday is considered the day of collective prayer, so it is often a day off in Islamic countries. Lyabi Khause Square, the pond in the center of the old town, just opposite the madrasah, is also lovely😍 There are terraces of restaurants around, so it looks like a great place to relax☺️ Bukhara/Uzbekistan #overseastraveldiary #Uzbekistan #Bukhara #bukhara

Four ancient cities in Uzbekistan.

If I had to choose the one that best represents the ancient Silk Road, it would be Bukhara. ⭐It doesn't have the grandeur and sophistication of Samarkand, and most of the buildings have not been restored and remain in their original state. 🔥It doesn't have the deliberate commercialism of Khiva, and the entire ancient city is still full of life. ✨Every three steps is a view, every five steps is a culture. This is a true portrayal of the small ancient city of Bukhara. 😲As a former religious and cultural center of Central Asia, the density of monuments in Bukhara will amaze you, with 140+ protected buildings scattered throughout the ancient city.

Bukhara: The Jewel of Uzbekistan's Silk Road

Bukhara, a historic city in Uzbekistan, is a captivating destination that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Silk Road. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant bazaars, Bukhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past. Getting There: Bukhara is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Khiva. The train ride from Tashkent takes approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on the service. 📍Address: Bukhara, Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 💰Average Price per Person: Traveling in Bukhara is budget-friendly. Accommodation ranges from affordable guesthouses starting at around $20 per night to mid-range hotels costing between $40 and $70. Meals at local restaurants typically cost between $5 and $15. Entry fees for major attractions are generally low, with many sites charging around $2 to $5. 💞Reasons to Recommend: 1. Ark Fortress: This ancient citadel has stood since the 5th century and houses several museums that showcase Bukhara’s history. 2. Po-i-Kalyan Ensemble: A stunning complex featuring the Kalyan Minaret and Mosque, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful courtyard. 3. Lyabi-Hauz: A lively square with a pond surrounded by cafes and restaurants, perfect for relaxation and people-watching. 4. Chor Minor: A unique monument with four distinctive towers, offering a picturesque view and a glimpse into Bukhara's architectural diversity. 😏 Curiosities: - Bukhara has over 150 historical monuments, making it one of the most complete examples of medieval cities in Central Asia. - The city was an important center for Islamic scholarship and culture during the Middle Ages. - Local bazaars are vibrant hubs where you can find traditional crafts, textiles, and delicious street food. 💡 Tips or Advices: - Spend at least two days exploring Bukhara to fully appreciate its historical sites and local culture. - Consider hiring a local guide for an enriching experience that provides deeper insights into the city’s history. - Visit attractions early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. 😅 Finally: Bukhara is a mesmerizing destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture. With its affordable travel options and captivating sights, it is an essential stop on any journey through Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 #internationaltravel #uzbekistan #bukhara #100waysoftravel #travel #culture #trip

8-Day Uzbekistan Tour: A Must-Visit in Fall!

Hey, travel lovers! Want to explore the mysterious Uzbekistan? Here's a super practical 8-day travel guide for you. Save it now! -------- 🛣️Route Suggestions: DAY 1: Independence Square -> Amir Temur Square Start your first day at Independence Square to experience the rich history of Uzbekistan, then head to Amir Temur Square to admire the unique architecture. DAY 2: Kalta Minor Minaret On the second day, visit Kalta Minor Minaret to appreciate the fusion of ancient religious culture and architectural art. DAY 3: Khiva🚌Bukhara Take a 7-hour drive covering 395 km from Khiva to Bukhara, enjoying the magnificent scenery of Uzbekistan along the way. DAY 4: Ark Fortress On the fourth day, arrive at Ark Fortress to explore the mystery and legend of this ancient fortress. DAY 5: Bukhara Exploration Tour - High-Speed Train or Car - Samarkand After an in-depth tour of Bukhara, take a high-speed train or car to Samarkand for the next exciting journey. DAY 6: Ulugh Beg Observatory On the sixth day, visit Ulugh Beg Observatory to experience the charm and wisdom of ancient astronomy. DAY 7: Samarkand🚌Tashkent Depart from Samarkand and take a bus to Tashkent to experience the different urban styles. DAY 8: Tashkent✈️Chengdu On the last day, end your pleasant journey in Tashkent and fly back to Chengdu with lots of memories and gains. -------- Some Tips: 🌟 2-hour time difference with China, adjust easily for a fun trip! 🛍️ Affordable local specialties, get a bag of goodies for around 2,000 som! 💵 1 som is about 0.0006 RMB, great exchange rate! 💡 Be polite and friendly, locals are hospitable, immerse yourself in the local culture! 🚖 Taxis are super cheap, explore the city effortlessly! 🕌 When visiting temples, women should prepare a headscarf! 🌞 Winter sun is strong, sunglasses are a must! 🌡️ Big temperature difference between day and night, remember to bring a thick coat to keep warm! -------- That's it for the Uzbekistan tour! Don't forget to follow me for more exciting journeys to discover🌍✨

Bukhara Traditional Market Tour: Experience Local Life

Bukhara's Central Market (Kolkhoznyy Rynok) is located in the heart of the city and continues the tradition of Bukhara as an old commercial crossroads. Formed during the Soviet era, this market is bustling with dozens of shops selling a variety of local produce, groceries, and traditional clothing and souvenirs. It is conveniently located near Bukhara's ancient architecture, making it a lively spot frequented by both locals and tourists. Exploring Uzbekistan's traditional markets, you can see a variety of goods gathered in one place. The fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as the spices sold in the market, were particularly impressive with their aroma and color. Walking through the market, you can see vendors kindly introducing their products, making it easy for travelers to enjoy interactions here. This place is more than just a commercial space; for locals, it is a part of their daily life and an important meeting place. From early in the morning, people gather to buy fresh ingredients and communicate inside and outside the market, sharing their daily lives. The market is not only essential for city residents but also a place where their community spirit thrives.

Uzbekistan | One of the best-preserved cities on the Silk Road.

❤Why we love it: Bukhara is home to thousands of years of historical architecture. In the 9th and 10th centuries, Bukhara was the capital of the Samanid Empire, a pillar of Islam, and the religious and cultural center of Central Asia. 🌟Highlights: The historic center of Bukhara is an architectural conservation area, filled with theological schools and minarets. 👍Top tip: Bukhara is one of the best-preserved cities on the Silk Road, with 10th-century Muslim architecture and a large number of 17th-century theological schools. It is one of Uzbekistan's World Heritage Sites and the best place in Central Asia to get a glimpse of Turkistan.

Central Asia 5 Countries - Bukhara, Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan 👉Bukhara: Bukhara was once one of the important towns on the ancient Silk Road, playing an important role in trade and cultural exchanges between the East and the West, and many market trade sites from that time have been preserved. In the 7th century, with the spread and prevalence of Islam in Bukhara, thousands of mosques, seminaries, and other places of worship were built in Bukhara, making it a famous Islamic academic town at that time. Bukhara has preserved many excellent buildings from the Middle Ages and is also a World Cultural Heritage site. 👉Theological Seminary: With more than 100 rooms, the first floor is the classroom and the second floor is the student's room. It is one of the largest theological seminaries in Uzbekistan. In addition to religious studies, the theological seminary offers different subjects, such as military, natural sciences, etc. 👉Carpet Museum (formerly a mosque): The oldest mosque, built in the 12th century, was originally a temple. It was not until the 12th century that Islamic culture was introduced, so Islamic culture was injected, and the door is decorated with Islamic-style blue tiles. 👉Minaret: Built in the 12th century, it is a landmark building in Bukhara and served as a guide in the dark during the ancient Silk Road period.

How to spend 2 days in Bukhara

Bukhara is a place I’ll never forget. 🧡 I spent two days here, and it felt like stepping into a living museum. The city is brimming with history, stunning architecture, and a timeless atmosphere. Though it can seem overwhelming with so much to see, Bukhara’s charm lies in its well-preserved beauty and cultural depth. If you're visiting for the first time, here's what you absolutely shouldn’t miss: - The Ark of Bukhara A fortress filled with fascinating history, once home to Bukhara’s rulers. - Kalyan Minaret and Mosque The heart of the city, with incredible tile work and a peaceful vibe. The Minaret by night is stunning 🤩 - Lyabi Hauz A charming spot in front of the Mosque to relax by the water, surrounded by history. - Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa (Summer Palace) The luxurious palace of the last emirs, a glimpse into royal life with serene gardens. This site is out of the old city, just 15 minutes taxi drive. For a taste of traditional Uzbek food, Old Bukhara Restaurant was out to-go restaurant. The setting feels authentic, and the dishes are a perfect introduction to the rich flavors of the region. We stayed in the Minzifa Inn, very close to the city center (3 minutes walk). I recommend it. #historicallandmarks #localguides #特色住宿

Who knows, you might experience a real-life version of Arabian Nights in Central Asia.

Good news❗️ Xiaoye has brought you an amazing overseas travel route. You can set off with just a passport. The travel cost is very low, but the experience is not bad at all! That is the 8-day and 7-night in-depth tour of Uzbekistan + Kazakhstan! Uzbekistan: a key town on the Silk Road, the origin of the fairy tale of Arabian Nights, there are exquisite and gorgeous ancient sites everywhere, as if you have traveled back to the Middle Ages thousands of years ago Kazakhstan: the apple city under the snow mountain, another "Xinjiang" behind the Tianshan Mountains, the natural scenery is not inferior to Xinjiang, but there are fewer people, beautiful scenery, low prices, and you can also experience exotic customs In short, it is cost-effective. Take advantage of the fact that there are not many people going, hurry up and pack your bags and set off~ 【Central Asia 8-day 7-night private group) √Private small group, 2 people can book, refuse to fight√Customized teacher 1V1 custom route, no regrets on the journey√Chinese driver and guide butler-style companion, help with various tasks√Travel by business car throughout the journey, stop and go, flexible travel√Luxury hotel accommodation throughout the journey, comfortable viewing, feel exotic customs√Local cultural private experience, selected gameplay to grasp the most authentic folk customs√Uzbekistan 3 ancient cities in-depth tour, return to the Middle Ages Almaty natural exploration, Kaindi Lake + Charen Canyon roaming High-end hotels arranged along the way Samarkand's well-known top luxury hotel, with a gym, private soup hot springs, etc., the holiday experience is full of Buhara Old City Meiju Hotel: The appearance is a luxurious palace with exotic style, the location is particularly good, and it is very close to various attractions Lake View Hotel Kolsay Nomads: Located on the hillside next to Kolsay Lake, the small wooden house has a super good view of Almaty Hilton Yilin: Luxury five-star hotel, the exterior design is very futuristic, located in the city center, very convenient for travel Tashkent Hilton Hotel: Luxury five-star hotel, the hotel facilities are complete, the service is super good, and the location is also excellent 【Itinerary must go to 1 Samarkand: Gur Amir Mausoleum-Registan Square-Bibi Khanum Mosque-Shah Zinda Mausoleum-Afrosiab Museum Bukhara: Kalon Minaret-Miri Arab Madrasah-Avanti Square-Yak Castle Tashkent: Hazrat Imam Mosque-Dome Bazaar Almaty: Ascension Cathedral-Green Bazaar-Musical Instrument Museum-Warrior Park 【Customized teacher's on-site experience private gameplay]★Charen Grand Canyon Hiking★Kaindi Lake Cruise★Experience Central Asian Pilaf Center KOKTOBE Mountain Top Sunset 【8-day 7-night super trip (can be customized according to needs) D1: Almaty pick-up D2: Charen Grand Canyon-Kaindi Lake-SATY Town-Canyon Hiking + Horse Riding D3: Ascension Cathedral-Green Bazaar-KOKTOBE Mountain Top Sunset D4: Almaty flies to Tashkent-Tashkent D5: Bukhara One Day In-depth Tour D6: Bukhara Yak Castle-Samarkand Half Day D7: Samarkand One Day In-depth Tour D8: Send the plane back to China

Bukhara

Visiting Bukhara was a journey filled with cultural and historical discoveries. 🕌✨ The old city, with its beautiful palaces and bustling markets, reflects the spirit of the region's rich history. 🌟📜 We enjoyed wandering around monuments like the ancient medina and traditional bazaars. 🏛️🛍️ The atmosphere there was warm and welcoming, making every moment special. 🌟🍃 Every corner of Bukhara tells a story and showcases the beauty of its ancient past. It's a wonderful place worth visiting or recommending for a trip to this beautiful country.

Visiting the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa

Visiting the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa in Bukhara was a rich cultural experience. I enjoyed the beauty of traditional Islamic architecture at this magnificent historical landmark, adorned with beautiful decorations and colorful tiles 🎨. The building stands out with its spacious areas and serene courtyards, reflecting the grandeur of Islamic architecture 🏛️. Walking around the school revealed intricate details of design and art, adding historical depth to the experience 🌟. The atmosphere of the Mir-i-Arab School is filled with spirituality and history, providing a great opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of the area.

Ark Fortress Buxoro Arki

Ark Fortress Buxoro Arki The fortress is said to be 2,500 years old (the existing walls have of course been restored several times). It was the residence and office of the Bukhara khans and nobles, including the coronation of new khans. The last Emir Muhammad Alim (reigned from 1911 to 1920) From the highest point of the fortress, one can overlook the ancient city of Bukhara.

Check-in at the Four Minarets Mosque in Uzbekistan.

The Four Minarets Mosque, located in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, is a historic royal mosque. The mosque's facade is supported by 20 wooden columns, and its interior boasts numerous exquisite murals, making it a paradise for history enthusiasts. The name 'Four Minarets Mosque' in Uzbek means 'Four Minarets,' aptly describing the architectural style of the building. The domes of the four towers are uniquely Tiffany blue. Each of the four towers features different decorative patterns, which are said to reflect the four religions familiar to Central Asians. The unique Four Minarets Mosque is a favorite spot for tourists to visit and take photos. It's definitely worth a visit. Opening Hours: Open year-round from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Magoki Attori Mosque in Bukhara

UNESCO World Heritage Site Bukhara With a history of over 2,500 years, Bukhara is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Bukhara was once a major hub on the ancient Silk Road. It was referred to as Bukhara in ancient Chinese texts, as Wudi in the New Tang Book, and as the state of Bi and An in the Tang Dynasty's Nine Surnames of Zhaowu. It served as the capital of the Samanid Dynasty during the 9th and 10th centuries. In 1220, Genghis Khan personally led a campaign and achieved a great victory in the Battle of Bukhara. The Mongol army of Genghis Khan became renowned throughout Central Asia, advancing over the Afghan mountains to the river regions of northwestern India. Another detachment bypassed the Caspian Sea, crossed the Caucasus Mountains, and entered the Russian plains.

Kalon Tower

The Kalon Minaret, also known as the Kalyan Minaret, is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Standing as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the past, it draws numerous visitors each year. Here are the key attractions and features of the Kalon Minaret: Panoramic Views • Observation Point: Climbing the internal staircase to the top of the minaret offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bukhara’s old city, with its labyrinthine streets, domes, and other historic buildings. • Photography: The vantage point from the top is perfect for photography, capturing the essence of Bukhara’s architectural heritage. Cultural and Spiritual Significance • Adjacent Religious Sites: The Kalon Minaret is part of the Po-i-Kalyan complex, which includes the Kalon Mosque and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. This complex remains a vibrant center of Islamic learning and worship. • Symbol of Bukhara: The minaret is a symbol of Bukhara’s rich cultural and religious history, representing the city’s role as a major center of Islamic scholarship and architecture. Visitor Experience • Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides can provide in-depth insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Kalon Minaret and the surrounding complex. • Cultural Performances: Occasionally, cultural events and performances are held in the vicinity, offering a glimpse into the local traditions and arts.

My Visit to the Kalan Mosque

My visit to the Kalan Mosque was an excellent and unique experience. The Kalan Mosque is one of the most famous cultural and religious landmarks in Bukhara. I marveled at the mosque's grand architecture and its astonishing details. Upon entering the mosque, I felt a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. I witnessed a congregational prayer and felt a spiritual connection with the worshippers. Through the information provided at the mosque, I learned about Islamic history and culture. I spent time exploring the place and taking souvenir photos. My visit to the Kalan Mosque was a special and inspiring experience in the world of art and religion.

Bukhara's old town is more walkable than Samarkand, with travel time in early June this year

The old town of Bukhara, which is also the scenic area, is much smaller than Samarkand. I was accompanied by a lady from Bangkok, of course, I was leading her, and she also benefited from my presence (free admission). Having company meant that I took more photos, including the cover of a Lonely Planet guidebook, as well as local landmarks, and the great minaret with a connection to Genghis Khan! The weather was very hot and sunny, but fortunately, it was a dry heat with some wind, not like being in a sauna.

Promise me, when you go to Bukhara, you must set aside 2h for this stunning summer palace

The Emir's Summer Palace is the only attraction in Bukhara that requires a taxi ride, but it's not far, just over 10 minutes by car. After getting tired of the monotonous style of Uzbekistan's mosques, coming here will feel like a breath of fresh air. However, at first glance, the courtyard of the summer palace still looks somewhat dilapidated, probably due to the lack of management funds, but this last Emir's summer palace still has a gorgeous exterior. It is said that before building the palace, the Emir of Bukhara racked his brains over the choice of location. Following the advice of an elder, the Emir ordered the killing of four sheep and hung the meat in four different directions of the city. After a while, the meat in the other directions had rotted, but the meat hung in the north of the city remained fresh. The Emir believed that the air was fresher there, and thus chose the north of the city as the site for the palace. The Emir's Summer Palace is divided into two parts, the old palace is called the Abdulla Khan Palace, built in 1892 in the traditional Bukhara architectural style. The new palace is called the Said Alim Khan Palace, which combines European and Central Asian styles, built in 1917, including some lavishly decorated living rooms and halls, built by the best craftsmen of Bukhara. Overall, after visiting the Emir's Summer Palace, I still feel that both the old and new palaces are relatively small in scale, and not at all comparable to the Summer Palace in Saint Petersburg. The interior decoration blends traditional YSL religious patterns with European court decoration styles, with a lot of colorful glass decorations on the ceilings and walls, but it looks rather vulgar and is far from the splendor of Russia. Apart from the palace building itself, the summer palace also includes a large garden with fountains and ponds, which I think is the best spot for taking photos at the Emir's Summer Palace. Lastly, some details: inside the summer palace, I also found some 19th-century porcelain from China and Japan, along with peacocks strolling around the garden, which is quite a mix. But it also highlights Bukhara's once important position on the Silk Road, a shining pearl on the trade route that connected Eastern and Western civilizations. 🏞️Name | Emir's Summer Palace Sitorai Mahi Khosa 🎫Ticket | 40000 Sum ⛳Address | Buxoro shahri, Moxi Xosa daxasi, shifokorlar ko’chasi 1-uy, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Bukhara Solo Female Travel Online Car Hire for Off-the-Beaten-Path Tours

After lounging in the old town of Bukhara for a few days, I decided to visit the surrounding attractions. There are quite a few sights outside of Bukhara city, and after screening, I found these to be the most quintessential and worthwhile. 👉 Although there are minibuses to each attraction, they are not in the same direction, so hiring an online car is the most convenient. 🏞Route: Chor Minor Medressa~Amir's summer palace~Nakshbandi Bukhari Mausoleum 1⃣Chor Minor Medressa This madrasah, which graced the cover of 'Lonely Planet', has now been turned into shops, but its unique architectural facade still attracts many tourists. The highlights are the four small towers and bird nests on top of the madrasah. 🚖About two kilometers outside the old town, it is walkable or you can hire an online car. 2⃣Amir's summer palace This was the summer palace of the last Emir, Alim Khan, and has now been turned into a museum. The palace displays royal furnishings and Alim Khan's personal belongings. The highlight is the star and moon garden outside the palace, which is particularly beautiful, and they even have peacocks. The ticket price is 40,000 som, and I can confirm that it's possible to bargain. 🚖It's over 10 kilometers from the old town, and the online car fare is less than 10 RMB. 3⃣Nakshbandi Bukhari Mausoleum It is said that the Sufi saint Baha-ud-Din Naqshbandi and the Bukhara khans and nobles are buried here. In the hearts of the locals, this place is second only to Mecca. The star and moon corridor and the Khoz pool inside the mausoleum are very beautiful, and next to the mosque, there is a place to receive holy water. The ticket price is 10,000 som, about 6 RMB. 🚖It's over 20 kilometers from the old town, and the online car fare is 25,000 som, about 15 RMB.

Uzbekistan Bukhara solo female travel City walk landmark route

Bukhara is my favorite millennium-old city in Central Asia, and the one I explored the most in-depth, because I loved it so much that I visited twice, wandering around for half a month. 👉But if you only have one day, even if you're a special forces soldier, I still recommend checking out these essential landmark spots first, all within walking distance. 🏞Bolo Klaus Mosque～Ark Fortress～Kalin Mosque～Maghori Attari Mosque～Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah 1⃣Bolo Klaus Mosque This royal temple's most eye-catching features are the wooden columned porch at the entrance and the pool in front, along with the exquisite frescoes. It's also very pleasant to sit outside the door and listen to the chanting. 🚖It's right next to the old town, a 10-minute walk from the center of the old town 2⃣Ark Fortress The most magnificent fortress in Bukhara, where you can overlook the entire city from the castle tower. Inside the fortress, there's a mosque and a museum. The ticket is a bit pricey, but it's still worth it. 🚖Just walk across the road from Bolo Klaus Mosque to get there 3⃣Kalin Mosque The 47-meter-high minaret outside the Kalin Mosque is a true symbol of the city. I recommend coming in the evening when the night view is even more beautiful. 🚖After coming out of the Ark Fortress, just cross the road to get there 4⃣Maghori Attari Mosque The oldest mosque in the whole city, located in the center of the old city of Bukhara, under a large area of ruins. The carvings on the entire building are exquisitely intricate, breathtaking. 🚖From Kalin Mosque, just walk through the commercial street to get there 5⃣Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah This madrasah has now become a craft shop, but the statue of Nasreddin Hodja outside the madrasah is a must-photograph landmark, and there's almost always a queue. 🚖Turn left from the mosque ruins and walk to the end, it's on the left

To Bukhara, this is the vast universe

If you want to talk about the most special mosque in Bukhara, it must be the Bolo-Khauz Mosque. Although the Islamic ancient buildings in Uzbekistan are very beautiful, after a few days of continuous viewing, it is actually easy to get aesthetic fatigue. · When I came out of the Yak Castle, I was attracted by the Bolo-Khauz Mosque at first sight. Although it is not as huge as the Kalon Mosque, the exquisite details and different colors are indeed different from the other mosques I have seen before. · Bolo Hauz originally means above the cistern, so Bolo Hauz Mosque is the mosque above the pond. In front of this mosque built in 1718, there is indeed a reservoir now, but the water quality is a bit worrying, reflecting the green tone, but it still reflects the reflection of the temple, which is a rare sight in Central Asia. · The real special feature is the 20 huge wooden carved pillars at the entrance archway. You know, in Uzbekistan and even in Central Asia, wood is much more valuable than stone and bricks, let alone 20 such tall wooden pillars, which is as rare as the status of Phoebe in our country. · If you look closely at these wooden pillars, although they have been eroded by hundreds of years, the exquisite carvings are still shocking, especially the stalactite-shaped arches, which are carved in colors other than traditional blue, which is very pleasing to the eye. · What makes it impossible to move is the caisson, unlike the application of dragons in Chinese ancient buildings, the caisson in Uzbekistan is like the universe, looking up, it is star-like brilliance, rippling in the vastness. · 🏞️Name | Bolo-Khauz Mosque 🎫Ticket | Free ⛳Address | Bolo-Khauz Mosque, Bukhara, Bukhara Region, Uzbekistan

Beauty of Bukhara

#bukhara #oldcity #uzbekistan #beautiful #aesthetic

A Fortress of Tranquility

#2024wish Nestled in the heart of Uzbekistan, the Ark in Bukhara emerged as a hidden gem during my travels. This majestic fortress, enveloped by a colossal undulating wall, stood as a testament to the strategic brilliance of its architects – a refuge designed to withstand the onslaught of enemy armies. The simplicity of the design, reminiscent of the gentle curves of desert sand dunes, added a dreamlike quality to the Ark. The palace within the protective embrace of the walls exuded an air of tranquility, creating a stark yet enchanting contrast to the historical purpose of the fortress. As I explored the Ark, its unassuming charm and historical significance unfolded like pages from a fairy tale. The well-preserved architecture and the immersive atmosphere transported me to the magical world of Arabian Nights, where tales of sultans and palaces echoed in the wind. A particularly underestimated aspect of the Ark was its status as a photo hotspot. The interplay of light and shadow on the fortress walls, coupled with the unique design, made for captivating images. It was an unexpected highlight, urging fellow travelers to capture the essence of this overlooked gem. In 2024, my heart yearns for a new wish – a journey to the tropical paradise of Phuket. #2024wish