A Journey Through Samarkand – The Timeless Silk Road

I visited Samarkand during my Uzbekistan trip, and it truly felt like stepping into a living history book. One of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia, Samarkand is packed with stunning Islamic architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and deep Silk Road legacy. If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, Samarkand is an absolute must-visit—and in this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your time there.

Where is Samarkand?

Located in southeastern Uzbekistan, Samarkand lies at the heart of the ancient Silk Road. It’s about 300 km from Tashkent and easily accessible by high-speed train.

How to Reach Samarkand

By Train: The Afrosiyob high-speed train from Tashkent takes just over 2 hours. It’s fast, clean, and comfortable—definitely the best way to travel.

You can book Afrosiyob High Speed train from Here

By Road: You can also travel by taxi or shared car, but it takes longer than the train.
By Air: Samarkand has a small international airport with limited flights.

Where to Stay in Samarkand

Most hotels are concentrated near the historical center. Some good options:

Luxury: DiliMah Premium Luxury Hotel, Hotel Grand Samarkand Superior
Mid-range: L’Argamak, Bibikhanum Hotel
Budget: Jahongir B&B, Timur The Great Guesthouse

Try to stay near Registan Square or the Old City for easy access to top sights.

Top Things to Do in Samarkand

1. Registan Square

The heart of Samarkand and one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Central Asia. This trio of madrasas (Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori) showcases stunning Islamic architecture with intricate mosaics and turquoise domes. Go in the early morning or evening for the best photos—and don’t miss the night-time light show.

2. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

The tomb of the great conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane), with a dazzling blue dome and golden interior. This site inspired the architecture of the Taj Mahal in India.

3. Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Often called the “Street of Mausoleums,” this complex is home to beautifully decorated tombs of royals, scholars, and relatives of Timur. The tile work here is mind-blowing—definitely one of my favorite places in the city.

4. Bibi-Khanym Mosque

Once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, this grand structure was built by Timur in honor of his wife. Though partially ruined, it still dominates the skyline and offers a glimpse into Samarkand’s former glory.

5. Siab Bazaar

Located next to Bibi-Khanym, this local market is a great place to experience daily life in Samarkand and taste fresh fruits, Uzbek bread (non), nuts, and sweets.

6. Ulugh Beg Observatory

Built in the 15th century by Timur’s grandson Ulugh Beg, a great astronomer. The observatory once housed one of the world’s most advanced sextants and helped measure the length of the year with stunning accuracy.

7. Afrosiab Museum & Ancient Ruins

Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Afrosiab, the original settlement before Islamic Samarkand. The museum has murals and artifacts from pre-Islamic times.

What to Eat in Samarkand

Uzbek cuisine shines here, with a few unique local touches:

Samarkand Plov: Slightly different from Tashkent’s version—served in layers and cooked slower.
Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat or pumpkin.
Shashlik: Grilled meat skewers, often served with fresh salad and bread.
Lagman: Noodles with meat and vegetables in a rich broth.
Chuchvara: Mini dumplings served in a savory soup.
Green Tea: Served before and after meals as a sign of hospitality.

There are also great traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) where you can relax and enjoy local meals in a serene setting.

Best Time to Visit Samarkand

Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are the best seasons—mild weather and clear skies.
Summer can be extremely hot, especially in July and August.
Winter is off-season but quiet, and you can enjoy the historical sites without crowds. I went in winter—it was peaceful and atmospheric.

Getting Around

Walking: The main attractions are fairly close to each other, especially in the Old Town.
Taxis: Affordable and easy to find. You can use Yandex Go or flag them down on the street (bargaining is common).
Local Buses: Available but not always tourist-friendly due to language barriers.

Travel Tips

Always carry local currency (UZS) in cash for bazaars and smaller restaurants.
Many sites have entrance fees; keep some change handy.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Try to learn a few Uzbek or Russian phrases—it goes a long way.
Photography is allowed almost everywhere, but some mosques and mausoleums may ask for an extra fee for taking pictures.

Samarkand is not just a city—it’s a living legend. With its majestic architecture, ancient history, and warm hospitality, it leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. If you’re visiting Uzbekistan, this city should be at the very top of your list.

Whether you’re into history, culture, or photography, Samarkand offers something special for everyone. And if you need any help planning your trip, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to share tips based on my own journey.