When I visited Bukhara, I felt like I had traveled back in time. This city is one of the oldest on the Silk Road and has preserved its medieval charm like no other place in Central Asia. With over 2,000 years of history, Bukhara is packed with ancient madrasas, mosques, caravanserais, and bazaars that tell stories of traders, scholars, and empires. If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, Bukhara should definitely be part of your journey—and in this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make your visit unforgettable.
Where is Bukhara?
Bukhara is located in western Uzbekistan, around 600 km from Tashkent and 270 km from Samarkand. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage City and one of the most historically significant places along the ancient Silk Road.
How to Reach Bukhara
- By Train: From Tashkent or Samarkand, you can take the high-speed Afrosiyob or Sharq trains to Bukhara. The train station is located in Kagan, about 20 minutes from the city center.
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- By Air: Bukhara International Airport has domestic and limited international flights, including connections to Tashkent and Moscow.
- By Road: Shared taxis or buses are available, but trains are more convenient and comfortable.
Where to Stay in Bukhara
Most travelers prefer to stay in or around the Old City (Lyabi Hauz area), where many top attractions are within walking distance.
- Luxury: Komil Boutique Hotel, Minorai Kalon
- Mid-range: Sasha & Son Hotel, Hotel Malika Bukhara
- Budget: Rumi Hostel, Amulet Hotel
Staying in a restored madrasa or caravanserai-turned-hotel adds to the authentic Silk Road experience.
Top Things to Do in Bukhara
1. Po-i-Kalyan Complex
This iconic trio of religious buildings—Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasa—is the heart of Bukhara and its most photographed site. The 12th-century minaret, also known as the “Tower of Death,” stands at 47 meters and was once the tallest in Central Asia.
2. Lyabi Hauz Ensemble
A peaceful square centered around a pond, shaded by ancient mulberry trees. Surrounded by old madrasas and teahouses, it’s the perfect spot to relax and people-watch after a day of exploring.
3. Ark Fortress
This massive fortress was the residence of Bukhara’s emirs and the political center of the city for centuries. Inside, you’ll find museums and remnants of royal rooms. It also offers great views over the Old Town.
4. Bolo Haouz Mosque
Located right across from the Ark, this beautiful mosque is known for its wooden columns and peaceful courtyard. It’s still in use today and open to visitors.
5. Chor Minor
A quirky and unique structure with four minarets—each with a different design. Though smaller than most monuments in Bukhara, it’s incredibly photogenic and a favorite among travelers.
6. Trading Domes (Toki Sarrafon, Toki Zargaron, Toki Telpakfurushon)
These covered bazaars were once major trade centers along the Silk Road. Today, they still function as markets where you can find carpets, crafts, and souvenirs. Even if you’re not shopping, walking through them feels like stepping back in time.
7. Samanid Mausoleum
One of the oldest buildings in Central Asia (dating back to the 10th century), this mausoleum is built entirely from baked brick in intricate patterns. It’s a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture.
8. Magoki-Attori Mosque
An ancient mosque believed to be built over a Zoroastrian temple. It’s partly sunken below street level and offers a glimpse into Bukhara’s multi-religious history.
9. Ismail Samani Park
A green escape from the heat and crowds, this park is ideal for a quiet walk and is near the mausoleum and other historical sites.
What to Eat in Bukhara
The local cuisine in Bukhara is hearty, flavorful, and full of Silk Road influences.
- Bukhara Plov: Known for its rich flavor, often cooked with yellow carrots, chickpeas, and raisins.
- Shurpa: A light but flavorful meat and vegetable soup.
- Somsa: Triangular meat-filled pastries baked in clay ovens.
- Dimlama: A slow-cooked stew of meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Chak Chak: A sweet fried dough dessert coated with honey.
- Green and Black Tea: Served with every meal, often with sweets or nuts on the side.
Traditional chaikhanas (tea houses) are the best places to enjoy these dishes in a calm, authentic atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Bukhara
- Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal, with mild temperatures and blue skies.
- Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures crossing 40°C, especially in July and August.
- Winter is cold but quieter, and historical sites are free from crowds. It’s a peaceful time to explore the city.
Getting Around
- Walking: The Old City is compact and perfect for walking. Most historical sites are within a 10–15-minute radius.
- Taxis: Widely available and inexpensive. Use Yandex Go or ask your hotel to arrange a ride.
- Bicycles: Some hotels offer rentals for exploring the area.
Travel Tips
- Many museums and monuments close around 5–6 PM, so start your day early.
- Entrance tickets to attractions are affordable, usually around 10,000–30,000 UZS.
- Dress respectfully, especially at religious sites.
- Learn a few Uzbek or Russian words—it helps in local interactions.
- Most people in Bukhara are friendly and welcoming, and it’s safe for tourists, even at night.
Bukhara is a city that makes you pause. It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about soaking in centuries of history, sitting by ancient ponds, hearing the call to prayer echo through old alleyways, and sipping tea under the stars. For me, Bukhara felt deeply peaceful and alive with stories.
If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, don’t just pass through—stay a few days in Bukhara. It has a soul that you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left. And as always, if you have any questions or need help planning your itinerary, feel free to reach out—I’d be glad to help based on my own journey.
If you have any questions about my trip, don’t hesitate to ask them!
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