Essential Information
Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a perfectly preserved medieval city that takes visitors back in time to the days of the Silk Road. With its majestic mud-brick walls, stunning turquoise domes, and intricate Islamic architecture, Khiva offers a truly immersive historical experience. The walled inner city, Itchan Kala, is like an open-air museum, filled with madrasahs, minarets, and palaces.
- Location: Western Uzbekistan, near the Karakum Desert
- Language: Uzbek (official), Russian widely spoken, basic English in tourist areas
- Currency: Uzbekistani Som (UZS) – Cash is preferred, though some hotels accept credit cards
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather
- Visa Requirements: Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry or an e-visa
Interesting Facts About Khiva
- A Living Museum – Khiva’s Itchan Kala is Central Asia’s first UNESCO-listed city, resembling a real-life medieval town.
- The Last Stop on the Silk Road – Khiva was a major trade center and a resting place for merchants traveling between China and Persia.
- Legends of the City’s Origin – Local myths claim Khiva was founded by Shem, the son of Noah, who discovered a well of sweet water here.
- One of the Best-Preserved Walled Cities in the World – The thick mud-brick walls surrounding Itchan Kala date back to the 10th century.
- Kalta Minor Minaret Was Never Finished – It was meant to be the tallest minaret in the Islamic world, but construction stopped when the ruler died.
How to Get There
By Air
- The nearest airport is Urgench International Airport (UGC), 35 km from Khiva.
- Domestic flights from Tashkent to Urgench take about 1.5 hours.
- Taxis from Urgench Airport to Khiva take 40 minutes.
With Train
- Tashkent to Khiva: The Afrosiyob high-speed train connects Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
- The journey takes around 13 hours, with night train options available.
By Road
- Shared taxis and buses operate from Urgench to Khiva.
- A drive from Bukhara takes about 6 hours, while Tashkent to Khiva takes around 14 hours.
Best Things to Do in Khiva
1. Explore Itchan Kala – The Walled Old City
- Wander through Khiva’s pedestrian-only ancient town, featuring mosques, madrasahs, and palaces.
- The sand-colored walls and intricate tilework create a surreal medieval atmosphere.
2. Climb the Islam Khoja Minaret
- At 56 meters high, it’s the tallest structure in Khiva, offering stunning panoramic views.
- The spiral staircase is steep, but the rewarding view is worth it.
3. Marvel at the Kalta Minor Minaret
- A beautiful but unfinished minaret covered in turquoise and blue tiles.
- It was supposed to be the tallest in the Islamic world, but the khan died before its completion.
4. Visit the Kunya-Ark Fortress
- The former residence of Khiva’s khans, featuring a harem, mosque, and throne room.
- Offers great views from its watchtower.
5. Discover the Tash Khauli Palace
- A 19th-century royal palace with stunning mosaics and beautifully carved wooden doors.
- The palace once housed the harem of the Khivan ruler.
6. Walk Along the City Walls at Sunset
- The best time to experience the golden glow of Khiva’s mud-brick architecture.
- Perfect for photographers and history lovers.
Best Accommodation in Khiva
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Orient Star Khiva – Located inside a historic madrasah, offering a unique and luxurious stay.
- Farovon Khiva Hotel – A modern hotel with traditional Uzbek decor.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Meros Boutique Hotel – A charming hotel inside the old city walls, offering great rooftop views.
- Shaherezada Boutique Hotel – Known for its traditional-style rooms and warm hospitality.
Budget Accommodation
- Khiva Ibrohim Guesthouse – Offers affordable yet cozy rooms.
- Qosha Darvoza Hostel – Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
Cultural and Modern Attractions
1. Khiva Silk Workshops
- Learn about traditional silk production and buy handwoven Uzbek fabrics.
2. The Museum of Khorezm History
- Showcases artifacts, manuscripts, and archaeological findings from the Khorezm civilization.
3. Traditional Wood Carving Workshops
- Watch skilled artisans create beautifully carved doors, panels, and furniture.
Dining and Nightlife in Khiva
Best Restaurants
- Terrassa Café – Offers great Uzbek dishes with panoramic views of the old city.
- Yasavul Boshi Restaurant – Serves traditional Khivan cuisine, including shivit oshi (green noodles).
- Khorezm Art Café – A mix of local and international cuisine with a cultural ambiance.
Nightlife
- Nightlife is minimal, but some tea houses and rooftop cafes stay open late for relaxing evenings under the stars.
Day Trips from Khiva
1. Ayaz-Kala and Toprak-Kala (100 km)
- Explore ancient desert fortresses from the Kushan Empire (1st century AD).
2. Nukus and the Savitsky Museum (150 km)
- A fascinating museum showcasing forbidden Soviet avant-garde art.
Getting Around Khiva
- Walking – The old town is compact, and all attractions are within walking distance.
- Taxis – Best for getting to Urgench or nearby sites.
- Bicycles – Some hotels offer bike rentals for exploring the outskirts.
Practical Tips for Visiting Khiva
- Cash is King – Bring plenty of Uzbek som, as ATMs are limited.
- Book Accommodation Early – Hotels in the old town fill up quickly.
- Respect Local Customs – Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and madrasahs.
- Beware of Extreme Temperatures – Summers are very hot, while winters can be chilly.
- Try Local Specialties – Don’t miss shivit oshi (green noodles with yogurt sauce).
Conclusion
Khiva is a remarkably well-preserved Silk Road city, offering an immersive historical experience unlike any other. With its ancient fortresses, ornate madrasahs, and vibrant bazaars, Khiva is a dream destination for history lovers, photographers, and culture seekers. Whether you’re climbing minarets, shopping for Uzbek handicrafts, or savoring traditional cuisine, Khiva promises an unforgettable journey through time.
