Uzbekistan has been the cradle of the culture of the entire region for more than two millennia. Here are collected architectural monuments and artifacts, each of which feels the amazing history of the country.
Recreation places in Uzbekistan
The most interesting and old cities of the country are Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva. These three cities will not disappoint you when you visit. Unfortunately, they sometimes overshadow other sights of the country - ancient fortresses in the desert, bazaars.
When you fly over Samarkand, your attention is captured by domes and minarets on the ground - grandiose monuments to the commander Tamerlane. Surrounding these islets of historic grandeur, the modern city diverges in all directions with lines of Soviet-era buildings, parks and wide avenues filled with taxis.
Uzbekistan has raised many tyrants over the years of history. The most famous among them was Tamerlane.
The best way to discover Uzbekistan is from Tashkent. Dedicate one day to the capital. Explore the numerous mosques, then head to Urgench for a short drive to ancient Khiva. The city walls and gates are worthy of your attention there. In Urgench, explore the forts in the area. The best way would be to take a taxi.
Keep your way to Bukhara. It is worth allocating about three days for sightseeing in this city. It will be interesting to see the Chor-Minor ensemble, the Ark fortress, the Talipach gate, as well as numerous minarets, mosques, and mausoleums.
In Samarkand, feel the grandeur of architectural monuments. The minimum compulsory program is an ensemble of Shakhi-Zinda mausoleums and an ensemble of three madrasahs on Registan Square. Also worth visiting is the birthplace of the famous Tamerlane - the city of Shakhrisabz, located nearby.
Background information about Uzbekistan
You can get to Tashkent by plane of Uzbekistan Airways and Aeroflot (a ticket costs about $ 500). There is also a rail link between Tashkent and some cities in Russia.
Uzbekistan is much warmer than Russia. It is comfortable to rest there in autumn or spring. You can stay in hotels in Tashkent for $ 15-30. In Samarkand, a room will cost $ 10-15, in Bukhara - $ 20-40. Expect to pay about $ 5 for lunch.
Uzbek pilaf is a delicious dish made from rice, pieces of meat and vegetables. Ground black pepper, saffron, and azhgon are used as spices. Each region of the country has its own recipe for making pilaf.
Inland transport is inexpensive and not very regular. You can get from Tashkent to Samarkand by train, bus or minibus for $ 5. A ticket for the Tashkent-Urgench plane costs $ 55-70.