TASHKENT

Modern Metropolis

Splendid Tashkent is the heart of Central Asia. Once you see this city and you will never forget it. Here, skyscrapers are adjacent to old houses, and wide highways border on noisy bazaars. Framed by a semicircle of Chatkal Mountains, Tashkent combines more than 200 archaeological sites and monu­ ments with modern architecture. The centre of Tashkent can be described in two words- grand and monumental. Such magnificent buildings as the Congress Hall, Alisher Navoiy National Library, the State Museum of the Temurids' History, the sports and enter­ tainment complex "Humo Arena", the Minor Mosque have become the best examples of the modern architecture. Grand buildings are adjoined by historical monuments. Among them, are the one of the oldest operating bazaars on the Great Silk Road, Chorsu Bazaar, Khoja Ahrar Vali Mosque, Sheikh Zainiddin Buva Mausoleum, Khazrati Imam Complex, Kukeldash Madrasah and many other unique monu­ments. The Soviet era have presented such beautiful buildings that have already become iconic, such as Alisher Navoi Grand Theatre, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan, the Palace of Peoples' Friendship, the Roma­nov Palace. Above all these miracles of architecture is the tallest and graceful Tashkent TV skyward tower. In addition, underground there is its own unique museum - Tashkent metro, where each station is like a unique piece of artwork. Of course, Tashkent has become not just a cultural, but also an economic and business centre. Tashkent City complex presents the modern business construction and shopping and entertainment centres, the largest branded hotels, including the Hilton Hotel and the Parklnn by Radisson Hotel under the construction. Numerous parks of culture and leisure give the city notes of cheer­ fuIness and carelessness. "Tashkentland", "Ankhor Loko­motiv" Park, Mirza Ulugbek Central Park, Seoul Park, Japanese Garden - this is not a whole list of "green corners" of Tashkent. A variety of restaurants with national and European cuisine will help to restore strength after the intense walks around the city. Tashkent pilaf has become the hallmark of Uzbek cuisine. You can taste Tashkent cold noodles- naryn- at catering points, and at the bazaar you can buy such a delicacy as Tashkent lochira tortilla. The lights of night Tashkent fascinate. Bright windows, avenues decorated with garlands, karaoke bars, nightclubs, pubs and entertainment venues will be definitely great addition and outlet at the end of your busy day.

TASHKENT REGION

An oasis in the foothills of the Tian Shan

The mountains of Uzbekistan is the great opportunity to escape from a noisy metropolis and enjoy outdoor leisure. A little more than an hour by car from Tashkent, and you find yourself in the fabulous spurs of the Western Tien Shan. Here, at the confluence of moun­tain rivers, the Charvak Dam was built, and an artificial reservoir appeared. On the territory of Charvak there are a large number of hotels, resorts and recreation areas. Here you can ride quad bikes and water rides, paragliding and hang gliders, enjoy unique bird's­ eye views. Having passed a little further, in the very depths of the mountains, you will explore the heart of ski tourism. Here, at a distance of 80 km. from the capital, resorts with cable cars, restaurants and hotels with direct access to the mountain slopes will be waiting for you. The snow in these places is soft and elastic, which allows you to enjoy skiing from November to April. Today, there are all-season resorts in the mountains, such as Chim­ gan, Beldersay and Amirsoy. Fans of camping and "wild" recreation will like the pride of all Uzbekistan - Ugam-Chatkal National Park. The beautiful landscape, diverse flora and fauna of the republic's largest park will leave a strong impression. Here you can find crystal clear springs merging into violent mountain streams. It's a great luck to discover and explore a flowing water stream - a mountain waterfall. There are a lot of such waterfalls. Their height reaches more than 30 meters. Among them is a waterfall on Badak Lake. Emerald­ colored lakes' water, the green covers of the mountains turn this place into a mountain pearl. In Chatkal Mountains, there is no time of year, when the surrounding beauty can attract more or less. The degree of winter landscapes gives way to a riot of spring colors, which smoothly shimmer into summer calm.

FERGANA VALLEY

Perl bulk of Uzbekistan

Amazing places of our country continue to fascinate. "Three whales" of the Ferghana Valley are three regions: Andijan, Namangan and Ferghana. The once con­ nected links of the miracle valley were the centres of a flourishing oasis, the concentration of ancient civilizations. A large number of the ancient and medieval monuments, as well as the Great Silk Road route through the Ferghana Valley, are the sign of a high culture in the development of the region.

Since the ancient time, the residents of the Ferghana Valley have used ancient methods in the manufacture of incredible beauty wall panels, home decoration, skullcaps, ceramics, and knives. The listed items have always been so skillfully crafted that the fame spread to so many countries and places. Merchants in the eastern bazaars literally hunted for Ferghana goods.

You can get from Tashkent to the cities of the Ferghana Valley by plane or by express train. You can also drive a car through the Kamchik Pass. The pass is famous for its indescribable beauty. The spectacle of the intermountain cavities and majestic cliffs is indescribable. Climbing a narrow serpentine road, in some areas you get above the clouds. And this is really a magnificent sight! 

FERGANA

The modern Fergana is the grownup industrial centre with the developed economy. Here, the traditions of applied art, poetry and education have been preserved. In the centre of Ferghana, in the Central Park, a monument to the outstanding Central Asian scientist Al­ Fa rgha ni is erected. Here you can visit the PuppetTheatre and the State Museum of History and Culture of the Ferghana Valley.

Walking around the city, you will meet restaurants with national cuisine on the way. Do not miss the opportunity to taste the Ferghana pilaf, which is famous for its flavour and slight pungency.

The city of Margilan, not the largest, but one of the oldest one, is located only 15 km, from Ferghana. The city is famous for its cultural objects and products. It produces natural silk fabrics, using the ikat technique. The most famous land­ mark of the city is the "Yodgorlik" factory, which produces the khan-atlas (fabric from 100% silk) and adras (semi-silk fabric). Also in Margilan, you can visit the Sayd Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah and the Pir Siddik complex, and relax walking in the Park of Creative People.

An hour's drive from Margilan there is the "Central Pottery Workshop of Central Asia" - the city of Rishtan. From the ancient times, the city is famous for its ceramic  products,  the  quality  and painting of which reach the heart. The most beautiful glazed ceramics has been considered as the highest standard of pottery art for more than a century.

And if you want to be among the many architectural monuments, then it's worth to spend less than an hour on the road from Rishtan to reach the ancient city of Kokand. Right in the centre of the city, there is the pride of the entire Ferghana Valley - the Palace of Khudoyar Khan. Also, be sure to look at the Jami Mosque, the Mausoleum of Madari Khan, the Norbut Biya Madrasah. In total, there are about 300 unique monu­ ments in Kokand. And this is not surprising, because once the city was the centre of the Kokand Khanate, and science and religious education developed here.

NAMANGAN

Continuing the exploration of the Ferghana Valley, visit the "Flower Land" in the Namangan region. On the way from Kokand to the city of Namangan, you can make a stop in Chust. Chust is an ancient city, which is more than 3,500 thousand years old. The quarter of the blacksmiths, where Pichak souvenir knives are made, has long been famous in the city. There are a lot of legends about their durability and beauty; they are highly appreciated by collectors and cooks not only in Uzbekistan, but all over the world. The branded Chust skullcaps, hats in an austere style, are made here. White and black combinations in the shape of peppers "kalampir" look good on a head­piece. It takes less than an hour from Chust to get to beautiful Namangan. From the ancient times, Namangan was con­ sidered the land of flowers. The city has not lost its originality while the recon­ struction and transformation in a modern way. For exploring the city, a bike ride is an ideal solution. Driving through the narrow streets, you can feel the unique Central Asian flavour.

In the central part of the city, there is Babur Amusement Park, and across the road from the park, there are Namangani Mausoleum, the National Library and the Museum of local Lore.

The ancient Mullah Kirghiz Madrasah with the extraordinary beauty, the Otavalikhon and Khuja Amin Cabri mosques convey the spirit of a well-preserved history. To taste the real, natural taste of ripe fruit, go to the local dekhkan bazaar. De­ pending on the season, be sure to buy delicious pea­ ches, juicy pomegranates, fragrant mulberries, dried apricots and much more. Finishing a bike ride, see the new "Afsona" Park. On its territory, there is a large light and musical fountain. 

ANDIJAN

In the farthest corner of the Republic, there is Andijan. Planning a route from Namangan to Andijan, do not forget to stay in one more picturesque town - Shakhrikhan. It, like Chust, is famous for its knives and daggers. For many centu­ries, families have been making Shakhrikhan knives, passing the skill from generation to generation. Choosing a "symbol of a real jigit", you can see the process of making such knives firsthand, and even order a personally named knife. Just an hour away, and you are already in the birthplace of the great Babur. Andijan is the city with the rich history; it has been attracting attention for 2500 years. Andijan is currently the centre of industry and engineering. The city has a car factory and many large industrial enterprises.

The most important attraction of Andijan is Zakhiriddin Mukhammad Babur Park, where the memorial com­plex in honor of this legendary person is installed. In the old part of the city, you can visit the grandiose complex "Jami", which includes madrassas, a minaret and a khankah.

Having left the city, it is recommended to visit the tomb of the Arab military commander, Kuteiba ibn Muslim. 38 km from Andijan, there is the ancient settlement of Mingtepa. Once there was the city of Ershi- the capital of Dayuan state. The city was known for its "heav­enly horses", which were exported to the Chinese emperor. Alexander the Great himself dreamed of this city, the commander longed to get such a horse. In addition to the ultimate immersion to the identity of Andijan region, you should visit the city of Khanabad, located in the eastern part of the region on the banks of the Karadarya River. There is a Khanabad sanatoriums located here. Here you can treat your health and relax for the benefit of the whole body

SYRDARYA

Agrotourism Region

As it's known, Uzbekistan is fed by the two largest rivers - the Syr Darya and Amu Darya. The Syr Darya River is considered one of the longest in all the Central Asia. The deep-water miracle of nature has long enriched the fields and settlements that arise along this river. Therefore, the Syrdarya region appeared with such cities as Gulistan, Shirin, Syrdarya and Yangiyor.

The best time to visit Syrdarya is the early autumn, when fruits and melons are ripening. Juicy melons of several varieties are especially appreciated. The abundance absorbs four botanical types of melons-the most selected and unique in taste. The sunny climate, fertile soil rich in trace elements are convenient for growing delicious gourds. It should be noted that national sweets are made from melon:jam and dried melon for the winter.

In Gulistan you can visit the main square, the city park, the local history museum and many city and roadside cafes that cook dishes of fresh river fish: mainly carp, pike perch, snake-head, silver carp, catfish, and pike. And this is not surprising, because the region has developed fisheries. People from all over the republic come here in search of sporting or amateur fishing, and only here gastronomy lovers can taste fish dishes.

Make a stop in Sardoba region near the Sardoba historical monument. Sardoba is a specialized facility for collecting water that was built from burnt bricks. In the ancient times, they served as stopping points for traders on caravan routes.

JIZZAKH

The land of healing nature

The Jizzakh oasis has a long history, and incredibly fresh and healing air, breathtaking mountain landscapes attract to itself. First, we will go to the administrative centre of Jizzakh region.

Jizzakh is a well-developed cultural and scientific-educational city. The first thing that rushes and surprises is the contrast on the central streets of the city: old buildings are adjacent to buildings in European motifs resembling colonial tropical countries, and multi-storey buildings border a one-story makhalla.

To enjoy the panoramic view of the city, climb Yetimtog Mount, which means Orphan Mount. The top of the mountain is decorated with a beer-mill, so this place is also popularly called the "Drunken Mountain". The mountain itself is isolated from the slopes of the Nurata ranges, which can be seen on the left side of the city.

Back to the centre of Jizzakh, take a look at the local architecture. Here you can see ancient churches, the Urda Ecological Park, Uzbekistan Grand Hotel, Jizzakh Museum of Local Lore, unusual houses, looking at which you are unaware of their age, Khamid Alimjan and Zulfiya Memorial Complex, Khoja Nureddin-Khoji Madrasah.

Moving south to the Jizzakh region and bridged 110 km, you will find yourself on the territory of the healing land, in the green heart of Uzbekistan - Zaamin. Conifer­ ous and spruce forests and more than 800 species of plants grow here in the northern part of the Turkestan ridge. The rich ecosys­tem of Zaamin Park is a contender for the place of conservation in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In the park, you can find archaeological sites of different eras. Gorges and mountain ranges are of great interest.

The highest part of the mountain range is Shau­ kartau Mount with a height of more than 4000 meters. Signi­ficant places include Boboyongok - an ancient hazel-tree, which, according to the rough estimates, is about 700 years old. Not far from the reserve, there is a Peshagor cave, where tools, household items and traces of soot were found. In the recre­ation area of the park, there are dozens of children's camps and rest houses, the famous Zaamin sanatorium and guesthouses. Having visited the Jizzakh region, enjoy the local gastro­nomic dishes: the delicious Jizzakh samsa, the famous Zaamin cake, meat dish "Jizz". In the village of Zaamin, visit "Marifatli" Mosque, Zaamin Ethnographic Museum, and the amusement park. Then a two­ hour road from the village to the dreamlike Samarkand will be waiting for you.

SAMARKAND

Crossroads of Cultures.

The eastern poets called this city the "Pearl of the East" and glorified its beauty and grandeur in their works. In Ancient Greece and Rome, the city was known by the name of Marakanda. This great city has seen a lot. Its walls were besieged by the troops of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Samarkand reached an unprecedented peak of develop­ment in the era of Temur's govern­ment, who strived to make his capital more beautiful than all the cities of the world. And he succeeded: the magnificent Samarkand still fasci­ nates with the blue domes of mag­ nificent buildings.

To see all the monuments, the best solution would be to hire a profes­ sional guide with a driver, because each monument has its own history and legend. Gur-Emir Mausoleum, crowned with a huge tiled dome, is alone enough. It is visible from all over the city. Poets and thinkers composed: "If the sky disappears, the dome of Gur-Emirwill replace it." In this mausoleum, under the jade tombstone, "Iron King" Tamerlan found his last refuge

The central square of Samarkand is Registan, decorated on three sides with monumental madrasah buil­ dings: Ulugbek, Tilla-Kari, Sher-Dor. Along the southern slope of the city stretches the corridor of the Shakhi Zinda Necropolis, consisting of 11 mausoleums. Here is the tomb of the revered St. Kusam ibn Abbas.

Koksaray Square, Bibi-Khanum Mausoleum,  the  Khazrat-Khizr memorial complex, Abu Mansur Maturidi mausoleum, the ancient settlement of Afrosiab, the ma­usoleum of the Prophet Daniel, the Mirzo-Ulugbek Observatory - are the great monuments of all Mawarannahr. They make one big composition with the modern Samarkand. It is impossible to notice the an­ cient symbol of this city, walking around Samarkand. It is depicted on Samarkand's emblem and on the facade of the Sherdor Mad­ rasah, and its spirit is present on every Samarkand streets. Every resident knows that the symbol of the city is ounce. According to the legend, when the first foundation of the city was laid, the ounce descended from the Zarafshan Mountains and blessed its con­struction. This proud cat passed its wisdom to all residents of Samarkand. Medieval Samarkand today does not cease to amaze. Its monuments also include the ancient Siab bazaar, where you can buy delicious Samarkand bread, "non", and Samarkand halva. Separately, it is worth mentioning the Samarkand pilaf, by the right considered as the top of Uzbek national cuisine. Despite its rich history, the city has not lost its originality and unique appearance. Each monu­ment deserves special attention. But, as Fred Barnard said: "One look is worth a thousand words".

KASHKADARYA

The Motherland of Amir Temur

There are places that managed to preserve not only their pristine nature, but also the traditional Central Asian villages. The Kash­kadarya region is considered envi­ronmentally friendly; most of the territory is a fertile steppe with rich deposits. It is located in the Kash­kadarya river basin, on the western slope of the Pamir-Alai Mountains.

Traveling from Samarkand to Shakhrisabz, the road passes throu­ gh one of the most beautiful places in the republic-through the Kitab pass. The pass is not indicated on the topographic maps, unlike the other nearbyTakhtakaracha pass. Here you can see the picturesque vaIleys of the Amankutan tract, and the mountain villages in the foothilI areas.

After passing the bridge wall, you will find yourself in one of the largest cities in Kashkadarya- Kitab. Not far from Kitab, there is the ancient Kesh­ the city of Shakhrisabz, where the Great Amir Temur was born. It was founded in the VIII century BC. This is an amazing place; each building is saturated with the unprecedented energy of the spirit of Tamerlane. The heart of the city is the large Ak­ Saray Park, a historical zone, where numerous ancient monuments are located.

Once upon a time, there was a magnificent "White" palace of Amir Temur. Today, in front of the pre­served ruins of the arch of the "Ak­ Saray'' Palace, Tamerlan himself stands majestically. Being in front of his monument, you can see the pylons of the former palace and Temur's wall, erecting which, he sought to turn his hometown into a protected fortified city. In the park, you can see other religious buildings: the Chubin madrasah (inside the madrasah there is the "Emir Temur Museum") Koba madrasah, located diagonally from the Chubin. After passing the fountain, you will see the Chorsu architectural and historical complex, opposite it, there is the Amphi­ theatre ater and the medieval bath. Walking further south of the park, you will meet Sardoba, then, on the one hand, the Dorus-Saodat complex and the crypt of Amir Temur, and on the other hand, Dorut-Tillyavat, the well and the Gumbazi-Seyidan mausoleum. Outside the park, there are several ancient complexes. We recommend you to stay in the centre of Shakhrisabz, where you can book a room in one of the many comfortable private semi-antique hotels. The agrotourism festival "Anor" is held annually in the agro-tourist village of Vargansa. In the village, there is a pomegranate valley; guests will enjoy delicious healthy fruits. Another ancient city is Karshi. The administrative centre of the region is famous for its rich history. Here you can visit several ancient monuments that successfully coexist with residential buildings and urban infrastructure. Among them are the Karshi Bridge, the madrasah and mosque of Odin, Sardoba, Karshi baths and much more. 

SURKHANDARYA

The Cradle of the Ancient Civilizations

The history of Surkhandarya is rooted deep in the past, literally to the beginning of the birth of great civilizations. Surkhandarya region is the most southern part of Uzbekistan, a mysterious and distinctive place. Heading to the oldest point of human habitation, to the mysterious Termez, already on the way there will be a variety of monuments from the distant past and amazingly beautiful natural landscapes. The road will be long, but believe me it is worth it!

Before we reach Termez, we will visit the Baysun district, which is famous for its bewitching places. Among them is the mountain village of Derbent with a very ancient history. To the west of Derbent, there is the famous mountain passage - "Iron Gate" of Sogdiana. This is a narrow gorge between two majestic cliffs. In the ancient times, this gorge con­ nected Samarkand with Bactria. Scientists also proved that there used to be a fortress with a defensive wall and, perhaps, on this place Alexander the Great got married to the Bactrian princess Roxanne. Not far from Der­ bent, there is a range of mountains­ Khoja Gur Gurota. This place is most attractive for fans of mountain clim­ bing.

Then we will stop in the city of Baysun. It is located on the side of the Baysun Mountains, in the spurs of the Gissar Range. Baysun is a different world, where houses are decorated with carpets and murals, handmade ceramics, and everything in the district is saturated with folk traditions and rituals. It seems that real heroes live here. Who knows, maybe the ancient Kurash struggle was born in these mountainous places, because the Surkhandarya region is called the birthplace of this martial art. Approaching Termez, on the way you will see such historical monu­ments as the ancient settlement Dalverzintepa, the Dzharkurgan minaret, "Sultan-Saadat" complex - the ensemble of mausoleums of the Termez Seids, the ancient monument of Kirk-kyz, and Kokildor Khankah. In the city you will see several more architectural structures: Termez Archaeological Museum, the beau­tiful Termez Mosque, Alexander Nevsky Church, Monument to the Grieving Mother in the Dostlik Park.

Outside the city, near the coast of the Amu Darya, there are several other main historical sights: the Buddhist stupa "Zurmala", the temple Buddhist complex of Fayaz­ tepa, Khakim at-Termezi mausoleum (the famous Islamic Sufi is buried here), the Buddhist monastery complex of Karatepa, the fortress of Kampyrtepa (the former residence of Alexander the Great).

We recommend you to stay in Termez longer and explore the modern part of the mysterious city. Be sure to taste the local culinary delights, for example, Tandoor gusht­ Surkhandarya meat, Chuponcha - shepherd meat, Surkhandarya shur­pa and much more.

NAVOI

Mirage in the middle of the desert

What surprises hides Uzbek land? On the banks of the Zaraf­shan River, the Navoi region is located, which was named after the poet and world-famous scien­tist Alisher Navoi. Despite the fact that the region was formed quite recently, the history of the area has many wonders and legends. Here you will meet the most ancient petroglyphs, the turquoise sea in the sand and architectural monu­ments.

There are several large cities in the region: Navoi, Zarafshan, Nurata, Uchkuduk. Each city is original and unique. Navoi is an administrative centre with a developed industry. The city is interesting for its sights, such as Alisher Navoi National Park, Peo­ ples' Friendship Avenue, Hazrat Alisher Navoi Mosque, St. Sergius of Radonezh Church. Not far from the city, there are the remains of the magnificent palace of the XI century - Rabati Malik caravan­serai, which means "the Royal fortress", as well as the Deggaron mosque, one of the earliest preserved Islamic constructions.

Only 45 km from Navoi, there is an amazing place called "Sarmy­ shsay". Sarmyshsay Valley is a green oasis in the middle of the Nurata Mountains. At this place, there are recreation areas and guesthouses, where you can relax in comfort, combining business with pleasure. From the useful things, there are clean mountain air, water from healing springs and from the pleasant things - beauti­ ful nature. Here you will get the opportunity to touch the original culture, ride camelsand horses.

In fact, Sarmyshsay is the place of legends. On its territory there are over 4000 petroglyphs, de­picted the ancient people and the scenes of hunting. Also, various anomalous phenomena occur in this gorge, which is why this area attracts ufologists.

40 km from the valley of Sarmy­ shsay, there is the ancient city of Nurata. According to the legend, at this place Alexander the Great laid the fortress of Nur, which means, "beam". It is also known that a meteorite fell on Nurata, and a healing spring scored in its place. Later, the Chashma complex was built here, including a mosque and a mausoleum of the prophet Nur­ Ota. The water in the source is recognized holy; its constant tem­perature is 19.5 degrees.In 50 km from Nurata, there is Aydarkul Lake, one of the most beautiful places in the region, a place of pristine beauty. Despite thefact that thedrainless Aydarkul Lake is located in the endless Kyzylkum desert,thebeautiful lake is often called the "Turquoise Sea inthe Sands" for its beautiful color of water and impressive size.

BUKHARA

The Center of Islamic Civilization

Once you have arrived in Bukhara, you will find yourself in a different world and on another planet. Bukhara embodied the centuries-old history of ancient traditions with Islam. At the end of the IX century, Bukhara be­came one of the most significant Islamic and cultural centres in Central Asia. Religious figures and progressive people of their time lived and studied here. Alisher Navoi, Abu Ali ibn Sina, Al-Bukhari, Bakhautdin Nakshbandi became the real property of our country. They were prominent adhe­rents of the spiritual and philosophi­cal teachings of Sufism. On this earth, the memory of them has been pre­served.

Approaching Bukhara, we advise you to see the city of Gijduvan. A city is known since the X century, and even at that time it was one of the shopping centres of the Samanids State. Sufi teacher Abdalkhalik al­ Gijduvani is buried in the city, and most pilgrims begin their journey with a blessed visit to his mausoleum. Ulugbek Madrasah is located next to the mausoleum; it was built with an internal mosque and khankah..

Gijduvan is also famous for its pottery workshops. Beautiful, distinc­tive ceramics stand out due to the use of geometric shapes and floral themes. The sixth generation of Nar­zumaevs family makes the most beautiful ceramics. In addition, incredibly tasty kebabs are made in Gijduvan, you can taste their incom­parable taste only here! 

When you are in the centre of Bukhara, you will feel yourself like a VIP, because you will be able to see the greatest buildings of the world heritage, erected both before the era of the Temurids dynasty and after. Among them are the Chashma-Ayub mazar, Ismail Samani mausoleum, Magoki-Attari and Namazgoh mosques, Ark fortress, Poi-Kalan complex, Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan Mad­ rasah, Lyabi-Khauz ensemble, Shopping domes, palaces in Si­torai-Mahi-Khas and many others.

Bukhara is a big city, be sure to visit museums and parks, cafes and restaurants with national cuisine. Taste the Bukhara pilaf "Osh-i­ Sophie, samsa. Walk along the ancient streets of Bukhara and go to the Central Market. At numer­ous souvenir shops and work­ shops, you can choose products and things embroidered in the Bukhara style, purchase the fa­mous Bukhara jewelry and car­pets.

All architectural monuments, tangible and intangible works of Bukhara art testify to the high originality and richness of the culture of Uzbek people. Bukhara is a city, where a rich past comes to life in the present tense.

KHOREZM

The land of thousand forthresses

What do you think, where are the most legends and traditions, and where are they stored? Khorezm region is shrouded in many legends. And they are stored in the heart of this region - in the city of Khiva.

If you travel by plane or train, you will first find yourself in the administrative centre of the Khorezm region, in the city of Urgench.

Urgench is a very convenient, small town. It surprises with its neatness, beautiful avenues and the pleasant embankment of the Shavat Canal, along which parks and monuments are concentrated. The canal embankment runs thro­ ugh the whole city right in the centre, so you can see all the main attractions of the city: Jalaleddin Manguberdy Park, the Avesta Museum and Park, the Catholic Temple, Al-Khwarizmi Culture and Leisure Park, Youth Lake and Uzbekistan Miniature Park, Amir Temur Park of Culture and Leisure, Central Bazaar and much more. In addition, the city has many hotels and restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional local food.

A special place is occupied by Khorezm cuisine, which can surprise you with the such dishes as Shivit Oshi - Khorezm spaghetti, Suzma pilaf - dietary pilaf in Khorezm style, Tukhum barak - a traditional Khorezm dish.

In less than an hour, you can get from Urgench to Khiva. One can talk endlessly about Khiva. It is unique and inspired. This is one of the few cities that managed to maintain its identity, as it was originally conceived by the architects. Khiva is a "living" monument, a city-museum under the open sky. According to one legend, the city was founded by the son of the biblical Noah, Sim. He began to dig a well in the middle of the desert. Caravans and merchants passed by, drunk amazingly tasty water and sentenced the "hayvak," that is, "how it is good." Thus, this incredible city appeared, and the Hayvak well can still be seen in a cozy courtyard right at the northwestern wall of lchan­ Kala.

Majestic buildings, carved doors and columns, the unthinkable beauty of the building- these are books with encrypted messages from the depths of centuries. The Juma Mosque, Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, Kalta Minor Minaret, Kunya Ark Citadel, Mukhammad Rakhim Khan Madrasah, Anush Khan Bathhouse, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, Khorezm State Puppet Theatre are the vivid examples of the history that came to life in the XXI century.

On the numerous streets of the ancient city, the souvenirs for every taste are being sold. Comfortable guesthouses and hotels are open right in the centre of Khiva. Just imagine what it would be like to wake up in the morning and find yourself in one of the oldest cities in the world!

KARAKALPAKSTAN

The world lost in the desert

The Republic of Karakalpakstan is another significant reason to visit Uzbekistan. In this ancient territory, with an interesting originality, exciting history and unique monuments, people began to live since ancient times.

The centre of the region is the city of Nukus - a real mirage in the middle of the desert. Nukus is a large, eco­nomic, scientific and cultural centre. Start exploring the city from the Central Square. On the right of the square, there is the main attraction of Nukus - the legendary Savitsky Museum, nicknamed abroad as "the Louvre in the desert". The museum has a huge collection of scenic works of avant-garde fine art. On the left, there is Berdakh Museum (Berdakh­ Karakalpak poet). Also being in the city, visit Amit Temur City Park, lstiklol Park, Puppet Theatre, the Imam Eshon Mukhammad Grand Mosque, local markets and restaurants with national Karakalpak cuisine. From Nukus, on the A-380 highway, you can get to Urgench, and along the way to see incredible places, among which are the historical monument of Chilpyk-kala, the fortresses of Kyzyl­ kala and Toprak-kala, the mausoleum of the Sultan of Uvais-bobo, the fortress of Ayaz-kala.

Another magical place that is worth tovisitis the Badai-Tugai Reserve.The reserve is located near the coast of the Amu Darya.There are dense tugai forests, Bukhara deer live, weeping willows and tall poplars grow. On the borderof thereserve the Dzhanpyk Kala fortress rises, that once was the most beautiful fortress of ancient Khorezm.

Leaving for the Aral Sea from Nukus, make a stop in Mizdakhkan. This is a huge complex covering an area of 200 hectares. There are numerous ancient buildings and cemeteries here: the mausoleums of Shamun-nabi, Mazlumkhan Sulu, Khalfa Yerezhep, the ancient settlement of Gyaur-kala. According to the local legends, the tomb of Adam is located on the territory of the Mizdakhkan necropolis, and a mausoleum called "World Clock" was erected above his grave.

The way to the Aral Sea will pass through the city of Muynak. Located on the southern shore of the Aral Sea, there was the largest port in Uzbekistan half a century ago, where fishing vessels approached. Over the past few decades, the sea has moved almost 200 km, leaving behind a lifeless desert. Dozens of ships moored here forever, turned this place into a graveyard of long­ boats that resembles a dystopian landscape. Ustyurt Plateau is another "lost world", an endless plain, sometimes flat, and sometimes crowned with powerful adyrs. An incredible sight, like the landscape of another planet, looking at which you do not know whether to admire or to be scared. After all, once there was a world ocean, and now there is only one lime left and no water. It is a sad sight.

In conclusion

The world we live in is vast, with every part of it possessing its own unique qualities and characteristics. When it comes to Uzbekistan, you will be captivated by its distinct customs, stunning architectural landmarks, delectable cuisine, and mesmerizing natural wonders. Every region within our country offers a remarkable blend of diverse landscapes, historical sites, and modern structures. We have provided you with at least 12 compelling reasons to visit Uzbekistan. Now is the perfect time for you to experience everything firsthand. Rest assured that embarking on such a journey will completely transform your perspective on the world around you. The opportunity to explore Uzbekistan is truly a priceless gift that can enrich your life in countless ways!