- Khiva, one of the most noteworthy of the cities and towns of Central Asia, is situated on the left bank of the Amu Darya in the southern part of the modern region of Khorezm in Uzbekistan. It is a unique monument town, completely preserved in the cultural style of the region. In 1967 it was proclaimed a town-reserve and since 1990 one part of Khiva — the Itchan-Kala — was recognized by UNESCO as an historical monument of world significance. More on Khiva history >>
- Khiva Links
- Khiva - Review and reserve hotels in Khiva Malika Khiva - Hotel of Malika Hotels Group
- When discussing our plans for Uzbekistan with other travellers in Central Asia, Khiva was almost always the name that spilled from their lips in a whisper, like a secret confessed too soon.
- It’s far they said, but it’s so worth the effort to get there.
- And they couldn’t have been more right.
- While it was Samarkand and Bukhara we had high hopes for on Uzbekistan’s Silk Road, it was lovely little Khiva that stole our hearts.
- Once synonymous with slave trade and barbarism, Khiva, now akin to a living museum, is a delightful labyrinth of narrow mud-walled alleyways and spectacular blue mosaics that will sweep you back in time.
- Though the tiny walled city in Uzbekistan’s west doesn’t feel quite as touristified as Bukhara and Samarkand, it’s certainly no stranger to foreign tourists. Set out to explore at peak times and you’ll inevitably find yourself among a sea of selfie sticks and package tour groups, but wander just a little way off the main thoroughfares and you’ll quickly see that away from the crowds, the city is still bursting with life.
- Away from the sometimes chaotic old-town streets, it’s the old men in traditional hats gabbing in the sunshine, the brightly dressed women sweeping the everpresent dust from their doorsteps, and the kittens and cows parading through their domains that represent the true nature of this charming ancient city.
- But that’s not to imply there’s nothing to enjoy in the more popular parts of town.
- Peak through any unassuming door along the main arteries of the city and be transported back centuries through the immaculate tilework and ornate craftsmanship that adorn every surface. From below, admire the elegantly tapered minarets wrapped in vibrant bands of turquoise and emerald, or climb the claustrophobic stairwells and be charmed by the city from above.
- And when your feet grow weary, find a perch atop the Ark and wait as the streets fall silent, the monochrome walls flush orange and the final rays of light melt away.
- Khiva’s somewhat inconvenient location means many skip it altogether, but we’d consider it an essential part of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road story wrapped up in an enchanting, pocket-sized city. If you’re pushed for time, the most impressive sights can be ticked off in a day but, as always, we’d recommend giving yourself a little more time to enjoy Khiva’s beauty at a slower pace.
- These were our favourite things to do in Khiva, what we think you should see, do and eat.
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