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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Delve deep into Uzbekistan's rich historical, religious and cultural tapestry in this unforgettable 10-day trip. After exploring the capital, Tashkent, it’s on to the beautifully blue-washed alleyways of Khiva. Meander around the holy city of Bukhara, before discovering the beloved and spiritual city of Samarkand.
This 11-day itinerary takes you on a whirlwind culinary journey across Uzbekistan from Tashkent and Khiva to Bukhara and Samarkand. Snack on spiced lamb samsa, taste some of the sweetest melons and fruits fresh at the market, sample regional specialties of green noodles and fried fish, break bread with your hands, and devour skewers of tender grilled meats. Besides tasting some of the country’s best dishes, you’ll also get hands-on and learn how to cook them as well. After this tour, you’ll likely share the country’s obsession with plov!
Turn back time on this two-week tour of two amazing countries. Explore historical wonders of Tashkent and Khiva and uncover the crumbling cities of Merv and Mary and the fortress of Nissa. Camp by burning gas craters, get up close to the famous Akhal Teke horses of Turkmenistan and discover the palaces and mausoleums of mighty Emirs.
This nine-day tour will whisk you through the wonders just waiting to be uncovered in Uzbekistan. Travel across this stunning country by train alighting to delight in the jaw-dropping architecture of the mosques and madrasahs of Tashkent, Bukhara and Khiva, the dramatic reds of the Kyzyl Kum desert and the beauty of the Amu Darya river.
Fourteen days, two countries, eight cities and one rocket launch: there are not many journeys that you’ll make quite like this one. Over the course of two weeks, you’ll be treated to all the important historic sites of Uzbekistan and its ancient Silk Road cities, as well as witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event – the “Soyuz” rocket being launched into space from the cosmodrome in Baikonur.
This 11-day journey follows the ancient Silk Road of Uzbekistan, encompassing the historic trade cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand. The beauty, as well as the sheer scale of construction is enough to captivate thousands pilgrims and tourists alike. You'll also have time for a camel ride and night under the stars in the Uzbek desert.
Discover the hidden treasures of two countries on this two-week tour. Marvel at the ancient architecture and explore the bustling bazaars of Uzbekistan’s big cities and plunge into the lakes, mountains and canyons of scenic Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll bathe in hot springs, picnic in meadows and even stay in a rustic local home.
There’s a world of culture, history and nature waiting to be uncovered by those daring enough to be different. This two-week itinerary through Uzbekistan and Tajikistan offers exactly that - something a little different. A truly memorable 14-day trip through this fascinating yet often overlooked part of the world.
This tour of the Silk Road “Stans” takes you through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan in just two short weeks. Designed specifically for those looking to dip toes into each destination rather than explore in depth, this itinerary ensures luxury and comfort in a part of the world that can be tricky to country-hop without expert guidance.
An 11-day trip that takes you across the evolving landscape of Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley, passing empty deserts, negotiating snow-topped mountains and exploring ancient trade cities. Witness luxurious, awe-inspiring palaces and mosques alongside modest mountain villages reflecting the untouched lifestyle of the famously friendly Uzbeks.
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.
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.
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.
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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