Once a land of nomads and tribal men, Uzbekistan was a bridge between Europe and Asia. It was a heart of the Ancient Silk Route. Uzbekistan Tourism is all about fascinating Silk Route Tales.
Uzbekistan remained a melting pot of culture for more than 2000 years. The silk route trade brought traders and their wares from Xian to Rome. Caravans carrying silk from China made thousands of mile journey through the desert to arrive in Samarkand. Along came the camels, slaves and skilled labor. In the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva and Fergana; the Chinese, Turkic, Indians and Persian traders exchanged silks with spices and carpets with porcelain. The caravanserai buzzed with stories and legends from far off lands. Traders, missionaries, pilgrims and armies marched through this exchange route leaving behind traces of their customs, religions and traditions. It is fascinating to stroll around the lanes of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva reliving the silk route stories!
Samarkand
Islamic Architecture of Samarkand
Post Mongolian invasion brought the rise of Timurid dynasty in 12th century. Temur Lane and his sons & great grand sons established Mughal empire all the way to India. Samarkand, the trade capital, prospered during Timurids ruling. Many of the finest monuments boasting Islamic Architecture were built between 13th to 17th centuries. Samarkand is the heart of Uzbekistan tourism. Mosques, madrasas and mausoleums adored with majolica and blue tiles lure travelers and explorers from different corners of the world. Read More about 50 Shades Of Blue In Samarkand!
Siyob Bazaar in Samarkand
Located adjacent to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Siyob Bazaar is the largest bazaar in Samarkand. In the medieval times, the area was a trading and crafts suburb of the city during 8th till 13th century. The merchants from China, India and Iran met here to buy and exchange goods in caravanserais located in the area. The spirit of ancient trading culture of the great city can still be felt at Siyob. The bazaar is filled with stalls selling dried fruits, nuts, traditional sweets, honey, dairy products, bread, fruits, vegetables and meats. Many tourists frequent Siyob Bazaar not just for shopping but also to experience the silk route vibes. Read more about Making a local connection Siyob Bazaar.
Khiva
The ancient fort of Itchan Kala was the histotic heart of Khiva. Dotted with mosques, medressas and mausoleums built during 11th to 17th centuries, pristine Itchan Kala seems to be straight out of Hollywood set! Uzbekistan tourism is not complete without visiting this ancient town in the desert.
Read more about Itchan Kala – Historic Heart of Khiva on Ancient Silk Route
Uzbekistan Tourism and its people
One more reason to visit Uzbekistan is for its people. Heart of these once a nomadic tribe is filled with warmth and love. Uzbekis are extremely friendly despite of the general lack of development and frustration at being intimidated by the state. The Indians are their favorite. Bollywood masala and Indian television stories are part of their daily life. ‘I am a disco dancer’ is on the lips of young to old, played regularly at dinner concerts. Indians get special welcome, being associated either with Shahrukh Khan and Preity Zinta. Read more about Why Every Indian Should Travel To Uzbekistan!
Bukhara
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