Welcome to Uzbekistan, a land of mesmerizing Silk Road cities, grand architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Uzbekistan is a dream destination for history lovers and adventure seekers alike. From the dazzling blue domes of Samarkand to the bustling markets of Tashkent, every corner of this country tells a story of its fascinating past and vibrant present. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, indulging in local delicacies, or experiencing the warmth of Uzbek hospitality, this Central Asian gem is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Geography & Landscape
Uzbekistan, one of what are called ‘Stan countries’, is a doubly landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan. The landscape varies from vast deserts, such as the Kyzylkum Desert, to fertile river valleys and mountain ranges in the east. The country’s major cities—Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva—are hubs of culture and history, each showcasing unique aspects of Uzbekistan’s past.

Historical Background
Uzbekistan’s early history dates back to ancient times, when it was part of the Persian Empire and later, the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, influenced by Alexander the Great’s conquests in the 4th century BCE. The Arab conquerors arrived in the 7th century, which introduced Islam to the region. In the 13th century, the Mongols, under Genghis Khan, left a significant mark on the area. The region later rose to prominence under Timur (Tamerlane) in the 14th century, with Samarkand becoming a cultural and architectural marvel. Following Timur’s empire, the region was ruled by the Shaybanids, before becoming part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century. Uzbekistan gained independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The country is predominantly Muslim, with around 90% of the population identifying as Sunni Muslims, and a small minority practicing Shia Islam and other religions.

Practical Travel Information

• Currency: Uzbekistani Som (UZS). Both Euro and USD currencies are popular in Uzbekistan. You can exchange into a local Som in the exchange offices of big hotels and banks. Banks give a little bit higher rate than the hotels. It is good to carry local currency, not all shops accept credit cards.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: We visited the country in winter which was a unique experience. Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate. Summers on the other hand can be scorching. If you can, travel in Spring (April–June) or autumn (September–November).
• Visa Requirements: Indian passport holders can apply for e-visa here – https://e-visa.gov.uz/main. Application fee for a single-entry visa is $20, is valid for 30 days and is processed in 3-4 working days. Please follow the guidelines for uploading photograph and passport copies.
• Language: Uzbek is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken, especially in cities.
• Transportation: The country has an efficient high-speed train network (Afrosiyob) connecting major cities. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast or just looking for a fast and convenient option, the Afrosiyob trains are perfect for trips between Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. Sharq trains are also a great option especially for cities not served by Afrosiyob. Taxis are safe to use and cheap – use the Yandex app.
• SIM: SIM card is not expensive, so for the sake of convenience, we suggest buying a SIM card at the airport. Uztelecom is a good choice, in terms of the the signal strength and the speed of the internet. The SIM card costs approximately 15 USD for a package that includes 30 GB internet and 1000 local minutes.

Cuisine & Food Highlights
Uzbek cuisine is a flavourful blend of Central Asian, Persian, and Turkic influences. It is a meat-rich cuisine for we were not confident to try local vegetarian dishes. Some of the popular dishes include Plov (Pilaf), Shashlik, Samsa and lagman.

Top Attractions & Experiences

• Samarkand: Explore the breathtaking Registan Square, the ancient necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda, and the majestic Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
• Tashkent: Visit Chorsu Bazaar, explore the Soviet-era metro stations, and stroll through Amir Timur Square.
• Bukhara: Step back in time with a visit to the Ark Fortress, Po-i-Kalyan complex, and Lyabi Hauz.
• Khiva: Wander through the well-preserved Itchan Kala, a UNESCO-listed open-air museum.

Travel Tips & Recommendations

• Cash is King: Credit cards are not widely accepted, so carry enough Uzbekistani Som for daily expenses.
• Dress Modestly: While Uzbekistan is quite modern, modest attire is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Learn Basic Russian or Uzbek Phrases: English is hardly spoken so it helps with communication, especially in smaller towns. Download Google Translate offline language pack for both Russian and Uzbek.
• Bargain in Bazaars: Haggling is common in markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.

We booked our tour with Oasis International Travel, who tailored a custom private itinerary (Uzbekistan & Kazakhstan) that underwent several revisions to perfectly suit our preferences. Their team was prompt, professional, and offered excellent services throughout. As a thoughtful gesture, they provided a complimentary lunch on New Year’s Day. In Kazakhstan, our guide, Camiya, was exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful, offering deep insights into the country’s traditions, culture, and people. We definitely recommend them for your travel needs in the Central Asia region.