Khiva

Similar to the now popular Uzbek tourist hot-spots of Samarkand and Bukhara, Khiva was once an important trade hub, situated along the ancient Great Silk Road that used to stretch from Asia to Europe.

Nowadays, the 2,500-year-old settlement is a sleepy little tourist town, yet it does boast its fair share of interesting attractions and sites - all providing reference to its long and fascinating history. Like many other ancient settlements in Central Asia, the 1.8-mile area of Khiva is split into two different parts; an old town, which features a host of original Islamic buildings, mosques, and narrows streets; and a new town, where the majority of the town's 40,000 people live.

The travel routes in and out of Khiva are good, catering for the recent influx of tourists. Many get in on private buses, with the more adventurous rolling in by train. The town is located on a central eastern border, just a short drive from Turkmenistan and 22 miles to Urgench, the regional capital.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Friday Mosque

This architectural masterpiece is centrally located and one of the must-see attractions for those visiting Khiva. The design incorporates hundreds of different columns around the perimeter of a main central building, with the oldest of these columns dating back as far as the 11th century. Inside you’ll find a tranquil, spiritual space designated for those who come to worship, rest or just admire the surroundings.

Kalta Minor

This stunning monument, probably the first thing you’ll see when approaching Khiva, is instantly recognizable by is jade green color and modest height of 85 feet. When it was first commissioned for construction in 1852, it was decided the structure would reach a height of 230 feet, although this plan was soon abandoned. It’s still an impressive site that draws thousands of visitors every year.

Khiva Silk Carpet Workshop

Whilst browsing through one of Uzbekistan’s many bazaars, you’ll probably spot one of the many silk carpets for sale. For those who wonder exactly how they’re made, this silk carpet workshop is the perfect place to visit. From 9am to 6pm, you’ll be able to catch the ancient production processes in action, and have the chance to grab yourself a sample of their handiwork for a reasonable price.

Kutli Murad Inak Medressa

This 300-year-old old medressa (Islamic school) was once one of the wealthiest schools in the region, and its incredible tiled design and intricately-decorated appearance is an obvious testimony to that fact. Located in the old town of Khiva, this is definitely worth seeing, both inside and out.

Stone Palace (Tash Khauli)

Although not as old as other historic sites in Khiva, the 19th century Stone Palace, or Tash Khauli, is one of the area’s most widely adored attractions. Once home to the former leader of Khiva, Allah Kuli Khan, the winding mazes, tranquil open courtyards and pretty jade tiles make this well worth a few hours of your time.

Uzbekistan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Khiva Itineraries

Classic Uzbekistan

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,000
See Itinerary

A Culinary Journey Across Uzbekistan

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,200
See Itinerary

Ancient Wonders of Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,100
See Itinerary

Ancient Wonders of Uzbekistan by Train

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $5,400
See Itinerary

Blast Off in Central Asia: 14 Days in Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,600
See Itinerary

Following Uzbekistan's Ancient Silk Road

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,600
See Itinerary

Landscapes and Cityscapes of Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,600
See Itinerary

Natural & Manmade Wonders of Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,300
See Itinerary

Pan-Stans: Country Collecting in Central Asia

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,600
See Itinerary

Tashkent to Samarkand via Fergana Valley: Mountains & Historic Cities of Uzbekistan

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,100
See Itinerary
Asia Khiva

Asia Khiva

Khiva, Uzbekistan

This comfortable is perfectly situated in the city center, next to the southern entrance to Itchan Kala - the old town. Within walking distance are some of ancient Khiva’s  most famous sites, including the Stone Palace, Citadel Kunya-Ark and the Djuma mosque with its carved wooden columns. The hotel has 132 rooms, all of which feature air conditioning, refrigerators, wireless internet and satellite television as standard and though not necessarily modern and luxurious, the authentic charm of the decor is in keeping with the city surroundings. The hotel restaurant serves international cuisine and guests can dine inside or out on the terrace. After a hot and tiring day discovering Khiva’s historic sites, unwind by the outdoor pool or take advantage of the sauna facilities. 

Zarafshon Boutique Hotel

Zarafshon Boutique Hotel

Khiva, Uzbekistan

Amongst the most modern properties in Khiva and a top pick, the Zarafshon Boutique Hotel is well-located ancient inner city of Itchan-Kala and provides clean and comfortable accommodation to visitors, if not with a bit of extra opulence. Bright rooms offer twin or king beds and feature modern comforts and amenities include air-conditioning, hot water kettle, flat-screen TV, and private en-suite bathroom with toiletries. Each room has a private balcony for guests to enjoy views of the inner city. Other facilities and services include 24-hour front desk service, garden and inner courtyard, room service, complimentary WiFi, restaurant and bar. The Zarafshon Boutique Hotel is a 45-60 minute drive from Urgench International Airport.
Hotel Orient Star

Hotel Orient Star

Khiva, Uzbekistan


This beautiful hotel located right in the heart of the architectural-urban museum reserve of Khiva’s old town, Itchan Kala, offers a unique accommodation experience. The Muhammad Amin Khan madrasah, built in 1855, was originally, like all Uzbek madrasahs, a school for students of Islam. Today these students’ cells have been renovated into beautiful hotel rooms which, although small, retain the charm and intricate detail of their previous purpose and feature all the mod-cons including mini bar, telephone and en-suite bathroom. Thanks to its unique and original architecture,  the hotel remains pleasantly cool with no need of air conditioning, and guests will be delighted by the beauty of the highly decorative arches and carved wooden doors throughout the reception and in the spacious restaurant. The hotel also features a souvenir shop, an outdoor cafe and a lounge bar and with its ideal location,  the wonders of ancient Khiva, including the towering Kuk Minor minaret, lie right on its doorstep.                                          


Malika Kheyvak Hotel

Malika Kheyvak Hotel

Khiva, Uzbekistan


This comfortable hotel, although relatively modern, is built and decorated tastefully in the authentic Uzbek style so that guests enjoy all the conveniences in an environment of intricate wood carvings, elaborate Khiva carpets and traditional design. Located within the crenellated walls of the Itchan Kala fortress, it sports stunning views of the skyscraping Islam Khoja Minaret and is a short walk from the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud. The hotel restaurant serves delicious Uzbek cuisine and there are acclaimed local wine varieties, as well as international brands of spirits, available at the hotel bar, while the summer terrace offers wonderful views of the old city so that guests can relax and unwind, fully immersed in the marvellous culture of the city. All single and double rooms have en-suite bathrooms, satellite television and a mini bar. 


Malika Khiva Hotel

Malika Khiva Hotel

Khiva, Uzbekistan


Since 2004, the Malika Khiva hotel has been charming and enchanting its guests with its blend of old world authenticity, modern convenience and colorful, quirky decor. Situated at the very entrance of Itchan Kala at Ata Darvaza and built to look like a madrasah, it serves as a perfect doorway into the old town of ancient Khiva and boasts the very best views in the city. The gorgeous main hall and reception area is decked out with colorful hanging Uzbek carpets, traditionally dressed dolls and even features a giant novelty chess set and classic Silk Road bullock cart for guests to enjoy upon check-in. The bright and cozy single and double rooms each have their own en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and satellite television; the hotel restaurant serves up tasty Uzbek dishes and room service is available 24 hours a day.


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