Khiva: Classic Full-Day Tour

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Khiva: Classic Full-Day Tour
Khiva, Uzbekistan

Discover Khiva’s highlights: Itchan Kala, Kuhna Ark, Muhammad Rakhim Khan Madrasah, Islam Khoja Minaret, lunch at Uzbek restaurant, Juma Mosque, Tash Khauli, and Nurullaboy Palace.

Offered in:: English, Russian

Highlights

  • Itchan Kala – Ancient walled city and UNESCO site with historic architecture.
  • Kuhna Ark – 17th-century royal fortress and khan’s residence.
  • Muhammad Rakhim Khan Madrasah – Grand educational center with intricate tilework.
  • Islam Khoja Minaret – Tallest minaret in Khiva with colorful glazed tiles.
  • Lunch at Uzbek restaurant – Traditional local cuisine experience.

Full description

Begin your journey in Itchan Kala, the ancient walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with stunning examples of Islamic architecture and vibrant bazaars. Explore the Kuhna Ark, a 17th-century fortress that was once the royal residence and administrative center of Khiva’s khans, featuring throne rooms, mosques, and towers with panoramic views. Visit the impressive Muhammad Rakhim Khan Madrasah, known for its grand scale and intricate tilework, which served as a center of both religious and secular education. Nearby stands the towering Islam Khoja Minaret, the tallest minaret in Khiva, renowned for its colorful glazed tiles and historic significance. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Uzbek restaurant, savoring authentic local dishes like plov, shashlik, and fresh bread. After lunch, discover the serene Juma Mosque, famous for its forest of over 200 carved wooden columns that create a unique and peaceful prayer hall. Continue to Tash Khauli Palace, the lavish 19th-century royal residence adorned with beautiful tilework, carved wood, and ornate ceilings. Conclude the tour at Nurullaboy Palace, the elegant former home of the last Khivan ruler, showcasing refined architecture and offering insight into Khiva’s final era before Russian rule. This comprehensive tour offers a rich experience of Khiva’s royal heritage, architectural marvels, and vibrant cultural traditions.

What's Included

  • Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
  • Professional Guide
  • Transportation between sites
  • All Taxes
  • Admission Tickets
  • Food and Drinks
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips (Optional)
What to bring

A bottle of water Sunglasses

Know before you go

Head and Knees should be covered for women.

$130.00per person

Free cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

Itinerary

Itchan Kala is the walled inner town of Khiva, Uzbekistan, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by impressive mud-brick walls, it houses dozens of well-preserved madrasahs, mosques, minarets, and palaces. This open-air museum offers a glimpse into centuries of Islamic architecture and Silk Road history.

Kunya Ark is a historic fortress in Khiva, originally built in the 17th century as the royal residence of the Khiva khans. It contains a series of courtyards, a mosque, throne room, and administrative offices. Located within Itchan Kala, it offers insight into the political and royal life of the Khivan rulers.

Muhammed Rakhim Khan Madrasah, completed in 1876, is one of Khiva’s largest madrasahs, blending religious and secular education. Its architecture features a spacious courtyard, 76 student cells, and intricately decorated facades. This historic site reflects Khiva’s rich cultural and educational heritage.

Nurullaboy Palace was the residence of Nurullah Khan, the last ruler of Khiva, built in the late 19th century. The palace showcases elegant Islamic architecture with intricately carved wooden details, colorful tilework, and spacious courtyards. It offers insight into the lifestyle of Khiva’s final khanate period before Russian conquest.

Islam Khoja Minaret – The tallest structure in Khiva, this slender minaret rises 57 meters high and is richly decorated with colorful glazed tiles. Built in 1910, it stands beside the Islam Khodja Madrasah and reflects a blend of traditional Khorezm architecture with modern design elements. Its viewing platform offers breathtaking panoramic views of Itchan Kala and beyond.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Uzbek national restaurant, where you’ll taste authentic local dishes like plov, shashlik, and fresh salads. The warm atmosphere and rich flavors offer a perfect break during your cultural journey. Meals are prepared with local ingredients and served with traditional Uzbek hospitality.

Juma Mosque in Khiva is famous for its unique wooden interior featuring over 200 carved wooden columns, some dating back to the 10th century. The mosque’s simple exterior contrasts with its richly decorated hall, creating a serene and historic atmosphere. It remains an active place of worship and a testament to Khiva’s architectural heritage.

Tash Khauli Palace, built in the 1830s by Allakuli Khan, served as a royal residence within Khiva’s Itchan Kala. The palace features richly decorated courtyards, intricately tiled halls, and over 160 rooms, including the harem and throne room. Its stunning architecture and craftsmanship reflect the wealth and power of Khiva’s khans.