Understand

Khiva, a significant historical site on the Great Silk Road, is often overlooked by tourists. Once a brutal slave trading post, it is now a peaceful oasis. The historical areas have been restored to reflect its bustling past. With mosques, madrasahs, and minarets within a 3km area, you can get a sense of the crowded and vibrant town that once existed. Khiva is divided into two sections: Ichon-Qala (within the wall) and Dichon-Qala (outside the wall). Ichon-Qala showcases stunning Islamic architecture, built over 600 years, while Dichon-Qala is the modern area of the city. Khiva is just 35km from the regional capital of Urgench and 5km from the border of Turkmenistan.

Get in

Traveling to Khiva can be quite an adventure! Most people start their journey in the regional capital of Urgench, which can be reached by air, train, or taxi. While flying is the most convenient option, be aware that ticket agents at the train or bus stations might try to charge you more if they think you're a tourist. To avoid this, it's always a good idea to ask a local or a guide for accurate information. Luckily, Uzbeks are usually friendly and willing to help you get the right price. Just remember, when it comes to haggling for cab fares, it's the norm everywhere except for the taxi from the Urgench bazaar to Khiva (for more exciting experiences, see "by car").

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Plov (Osh), also known as Uzbek pilaf, is the national dish of Uzbekistan. It consists of savory rice cooked with meat, typically lamb or beef, and vegetables like carrots, onions, and garlic. The dish is seasoned with unique spices such as cumin, coriander, and saffron, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor.

Samsa is a popular Uzbekistani pastry filled with meat, typically lamb or beef, and onions. The dough is made from flour and water, then rolled out and wrapped around the filling, resembling a small, hand-held pie. Smsa can be found at local markets, cafes, and street vendors, often enjoyed as a quick snack or a meal on-the-go.

Kabob is a popular grilled meat dish in Uzbekistan, featuring skewered chunks of meat, such as lamb, beef, or chicken, marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices before being cooked over an open flame. Often served with a side of rice, vegetables, or bread, kabobs represent a staple in Uzbekistani barbecue culture.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing