10 Things to Do in Samarkand Uzbekistan

Samarkand, an Uzbekistan city that is best known, is a place where history and culture meet in a spectacular way. As one of the oldest Silk Road stops, this city has a rare mix of Islamic architecture, historical monuments and active local life. Whether you are an architecture fan or history buff, Samarkand will present you with an incredible trip through the ages. Before you go to this incredible destination do not forget to apply for your Uzbekistan Visa to make your travel plans smooth.

Some of the world’s most amazing structures and cultural experiences can be found in the city. Samarkand has a little bit of everything from the great Registan Square to the mystical Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. If you’re ready to discover the beauties of Samarkand, here is the list of the top 10 things you must do to have an unforgettable trip.

Here are the 10 Things to Do in Samarkand Uzbekistan

1. Admire the Majestic Registan Square

Registan Square is undoubtedly the heart of Samarkand – a huge public square surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs (Islamic schools). It is a place where visitors can really enjoy the architectural glory of the city. The buildings are a testimony to the artistry and craftsmanship of the time, their intricate tile work and magnificent domes. When you visit take time to walk around to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of this historical site.

2. Visit the Shah-i-Zinda Complex

Shah-i-Zinda is one of the most peaceful and impressive complex in Samarkand. The necropolis is made up of a series of mausoleums and mosques all quite beautifully decorated with beautiful blue tiles and the intricate carvings. This holy place is the tomb of Qusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad. It’s a great place to think and be immersed in the rich history of the region.

3. Explore the Bibi-Khanym Mosque

The grandeur of the architectural wonder of the former largest mosque in the Islamic world is the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Though the mosque has fallen into disrepair in some areas, the beautiful entrance arch, and enormous dome stand as testimony to the historical importance of the city. The mosque was constructed by the Emperor Timur in memory of his wife and is now a beautiful tribute to the glory of the past of Samarkand.

4. Wander through the Ulugh Beg Observatory

For those who are interested in astronomy, the Ulugh Beg Observatory has to be visited. The observatory built by the Timurid ruler and astronomer Ulugh Beg in the 15th century made Samarkand a hub of scientific development. There are remains of the observatory, such as a huge sextant for measuring celestial bodies. It’s a place where history and science meet in an inspirational manner.

5. Discover the Samarkand Carpet Workshop

A trip to a traditional Samarkand carpet workshop is a small window to the region’s rich artisanal past. These workshops create wonderful handwoven carpets famous for their highly detailed and colorful patterns. Visitors can see the whole process, as they watch the masters of their craft create these masterpieces. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy an unusual piece to remember your trip by.

6. Visit the Afrasiab Museum

Afrasiab Museum presents the ancient history of Samarkand in a stunning collection of artifacts. The museum is situated near the ruins of the ancient city of Afrasiab and has superb exhibitions of murals, pottery and sculptures of the 7th – 9th centuries. It provides a wonderful insight into the daily life of the people who once lived there, as well as Samarkand’s part in the Silk Road.

7. Relax at the Siab Bazaar

Siab Bazaar is one of the oldest and the liveliest markets in Samarkand. It’s an ideal place to enjoy the everyday life of locals, try fresh produce and buy handmade goods. The market is an active hub of activity where vendors sell everything from dried fruits, spices, textiles, and pottery. It’s a wonderful place to learn your bargaining skills and get to know the local culture.

8. Take a Stroll along the Tillya Kori Madrasah

The Tillya Kori Madrasah is a beautiful monument near Registan Square. What makes this madrasah special is its fabulous interior, which is decorated with a lot of fine gold leaf and it is called “Tillya Kori” which means “coated in gold”. The madrasah is a school and a mosque and therefore a unique example of Islamic architecture. It’s the perfect place to admire the artistry, and contemplate the cultural importance of the area.

9. Explore the Guri Amir Mausoleum

The Guri Amir Mausoleum is the last resting place of the great conqueror Timur (Tamerlane). Its architecture is a combination of Timurid and Islamic architecture, a brilliant blue dome and intricate tile work. The mausoleum is among the most significant landmarks in Samarkand attracting tourists who are interested in Timur’s legacy and his role in making the city great.

10. Marvel at the Khast Imam Complex

The Khast Imam Complex is a quiet and historically busy place where one can find several of the important monuments. The standout is the Hazrat Khizr Mosque dedicated to the patron saint of Samarkand. The complex is also comprised of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Khast Imam Madrasa. It is a very nice place to learn about the region’s religious history and relax in the surroundings.

Conclusion

A visit to Samarkand is a plunge into a massive cultural and historical tapestry that covers centuries. The city is full of some of the most amazing works of architecture in the world and every corner there tells a tale of Samarkand’s glory days along the Silk Road. In order to live this magical city, you should have necessary Uzbekistan Visa from India to make your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Whether you are exploring the elaborate work of Registan Square or discovering the secrets of astronomy at the Ulugh Beg Observatory, Samarkand is a place where you will be overwhelmed with impressions and will never forget it. So, fill your bags and head out on an expedition to visit one of the most ancient cities of Central Asia.