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 on the right.
Multi-Country Specialists
Uzbekistan Goes Well With
Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Must-See Sites in Khiva, Uzbekistan’s Historic Heart
- Author
- Sara-Jane Armstrong
Uzbekistan is well off of most travelers’ radar, but Khiva is a very special destination, a fascinating hub of Central Asia history that is not to be missed.
7 Reasons to put Uzbekistan on your “Go Now” list
- Author
- Remote Lands
There has never been a better time to journey to the cultural centers and sweeping countrysides of Uzbekistan, and we have picked our top seven hotspots to visit before the rest of the world catches on.
Uzbekistan is Open: Travel the Silk Road with Remote Lands
- Author
- Travelogues
A Silk Road wonder, untouched natural beauty, and fascinating people — Uzbekistan is an underappreciated Central Asia treasure.
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
A Couple from California
Our guide in Uzbekistan seemed to know everyone wherever we went which made us feel like locals.
A couple from California
It was everything we expected and then some. Remote Lands was great and I would definitely use your agency again for another trip
A couple from Toronto
We wanted to visit hospitals, a nursing class, and a school classroom to interact with the local people, and Remote Lands was able to arrange all of this for us.
