Uzbekistan's Silk Road
Uzbekistan
The original Silk Road through Uzbekistan's four great cities, Tashkent, Samarkand's Registan, Tamerlane's birthplace at Shakhrisabz, Bukhara's medressehs, and Khiva's walled Itchan Kala. Three UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1,100 km through a landscape that has barely changed since the caravans came through.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Tashkent
Central Asia's largest city, with Soviet metro stations of extraordinary beauty, the vast Chorsu Bazaar, and the Hazrat Imam Islamic complex.
- Samarkand
The Registan's three blue-domed medressehs form the most magnificent ensemble of Islamic architecture on Earth. Tamerlane's Gur-e-Amir mausoleum lies nearby.
- Shakhrisabz
Tamerlane's birthplace and UNESCO site, 80 km south over the Takhtakaracha Pass. Two 38 m piers are all that remain of his palace, once the world's grandest.
- Bukhara
The most complete medieval city in Central Asia. The 1127 Kalon Minaret was so beautiful that Genghis Khan spared it while razing everything else around it.
- Khiva
The Itchan Kala's mud-brick walls enclose 50 historic monuments in a city inhabited for 2,500 years. The unfinished Kalta Minor minaret is its vivid emblem.
Where to Eat
- Plov CenterUzbek
Renowned for its authentic plov, this eatery offers a traditional Uzbek dining experience in a communal setting.
- Chorsu BazaarStreet Food
A vibrant market where you can savor a variety of local street foods amidst bustling stalls and vendors.
- Bibi-Khanym Tea HouseTea House
Located near the historic mosque, this tea house serves traditional teas and local snacks in a serene courtyard.
- Lyabi-Hauz RestaurantUzbek
Overlooking the historic Lyabi-Hauz pool, this restaurant offers classic Uzbek dishes in a picturesque setting.
- Terrassa CafeEuropean
A rooftop cafe in Khiva providing panoramic views of the old city alongside a menu of European and local dishes.
Things to Do
- State Museum of History of UzbekistanMuseum
Explore Uzbekistan's rich past through extensive exhibits from ancient artifacts to modern history.
- Registan SquareHistoric Site
A stunning ensemble of three madrasahs, this square is the heart of Samarkand's architectural heritage.
- Amir Timur MuseumMuseum
Dedicated to the famed conqueror, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits on Timur's legacy.
- Ark FortressHistoric Site
Bukhara's ancient citadel, offering insights into the city's history and panoramic views from its walls.
- Itchan KalaHistoric Site
The walled inner town of Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved historic architecture.