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The Republic of Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia. Formerly part of the Soviet Union, it shares borders with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan. This Central Asian nation, with its rich cultural and historical heritage spanning thousands of years, boasts many fascinating landmarks, which we will explore below.
1. Bukhara
Originally the capital of Uzbekistan, Bukhara, with its history spanning over 2,000 years, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a once bustling trading hub on the Silk Road. These factors make Bukhara truly special. Despite enduring wars waged by Genghis Khan in the 13th century and the Soviet Union in the 20th century, many impressive structures remain intact. Notable attractions include the 5th-century Ark Fortress, the Ulugbek Madrasha Academy (named after the renowned ruler and astronomer), the oldest academy in Central Asia, the Kalon Minaret, and the Lyabi-Hauz Square with its picturesque 400-year-old lake.
2. Kyzylkum Desert
A trip to the Kyzyklum Desert and an overnight stay in a tent is a truly worthwhile experience. For those who spend most of their time in bustling cities, sitting atop a sand dune and watching the sunset in silence is simply amazing. No phones, no Wi-Fi, just relax and admire the breathtaking scenery while enjoying a meal with traditional music. Once dark, you might even see the brilliant Milky Way, as there is no light pollution here. Those who have experienced this moment feel completely immersed.
3. Nuratau Mountains
Visitors can explore a small village in the Nuratau Mountains called Hayat and stay in a local's home. Here, you can learn how to make bread using a traditional recipe and bake it in traditional Tandir ovens. Afterwards, guided by a tour guide, you'll trek through the majestic Nuratau mountain biosphere. In the afternoon, stroll around the village to meet the locals and learn more about their culture.
As night fell, we returned to the warm dining room to enjoy a local dish called...Mosh Kichiri, considered asrisottoThe Uzbek version is made from rice, beans, vegetables, and beef, and is served with tandir bread, salad, and of course, the local vodka.
4. Samarkand
Samarkand is a city that will surprise you with the sheer number of tourists who flock here. Registan Square, Gur-e-Amir, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and Sha-i-Zinda are just some of the many impressive sights this place has to offer.
Registan Square is perhaps the most iconic landmark in all of Uzbekistan. It is a legacy of the Timur dynasty, the famous king who transformed Samarkand into a bustling capital during his reign. To the west of this vast square stands an impressive domed building called the Ulugbek Madrasah (named after a renowned theologian), completed in 1420. It is considered the first and oldest school in Uzbekistan, primarily teaching Islamic subjects.
5. Tashkent Metro Station
As the capital of Uzbekistan since 1930, Tashkent is likely to surprise visitors with many things. Contrary to initial expectations of a gloomy city, Tashkent is actually incredibly vibrant. It boasts many impressive architectural structures, meticulously maintained parks, modern restaurants, bustling markets, and, most importantly, incredibly friendly people. You can explore Chorsu Market, sample local candies and nuts, admire the colorful vegetables, and watch bakers pull fresh loaves of bread from their tandir ovens. Here, you can have lunch right in the market's food court, where you'll find many delicious local dishes such as kebabs, soups, and pilaf – a rice dish made by cooking rice with meat broth.
Another highlight of this trip was wandering around the subway stations and stopping at Kukeldash Madrasa, a stunning building that houses some of the oldest copies of the Quran in the world.
