Bukhara Travel Guide

Bukhara is a must-visit destination in Uzbekistan. Explore its culturally rich attractions, outdoor adventures, and amazing food scene with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bukhara

Bukhara, located in Uzbekistan, is a must-visit destination in Central Asia. This city is a perfect blend of ancient and modern culture. It has been a center of trade, arts, Islamic philosophy, and religion for centuries. Bukhara is a World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction in Uzbekistan.

Here is our comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Bukhara.

List of Places to Visit in Bukhara

There are several places to visit in Bukhara. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Ark of Bukhara: It is a massive fortress that was once the residence of Bukhara’s rulers. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times.
  • Bukhara’s Old Town: An ancient walled city that has been preserved for centuries. It has numerous madrasas, mosques, and mausoleums that are worth exploring.
  • Chor Minor: A madrasa with a distinctive turquoise dome that is a must-visit attraction.
  • Ismail Samani Mausoleum: A stunning 9th-century brick mausoleum that is regarded as one of the oldest surviving monuments in Central Asia.
  • The Poi Kalon Complex: A set of three Islamic structures consisting of a mosque, minaret, and madrasa that provide a glimpse of Bukhara’s Islamic heritage.

Natural Attractions of Bukhara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kyzylkum Desert: Explore the vast expanse of the desert that surrounds Bukhara by taking a camel ride or a jeep safari.
  • The Chashma Ayub Mausoleum: Located atop a verdant hill, this mausoleum is surrounded by a garden and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Master Zaynuddin Park: Take a stroll in this well-manicured park that is perfect for a leisurely picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bukhara

Bukhara offers several hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking natural beauty. Some popular routes include:

  • Vabkent Trail: This challenging trail takes you through the lush countryside and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Nuratau Mountains: Plan a hiking trip to the Nuratau Mountains, located on the outskirts of Bukhara. The natural beauty of the mountains is unmatched, and the trails are well-maintained and well-marked.

Best Things to Do in Bukhara: Activities and Tours

There are several things to do in Bukhara for all types of travelers. Some popular activities and tours include:

  • Food and shopping tours: Embark on a guided tour of the city’s food scene or explore Bukhara’s bustling bazaars.
  • Attend a concert or show: Bukhara is home to several theaters and cultural centers that regularly host concerts and shows.
  • Stargazing: Head to the desert to observe the mesmerizing night sky, and learn about the stars and galaxies from the local experts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bukhara

To make the most of your time in Bukhara, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Ark of Bukhara, Chor Minor and Bolo Hauz Mosque.
Have lunch at a local restaurant and then visit the Char Minar.
Afterwards, explore the Old Town.
In the evening, visit the Bukhara Puppet Theater.
Day 2 Take a trip to the Nuratau Mountains and go hiking.
In the evening, have a relaxing spa session.
Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 3 Visit the Poi Kalon Complex and Ismail Samani Mausoleum.
Have lunch and then explore the Nodir Devon Begi Madrasa.
In the evening, visit a local park.
Day 4 Embark on a food and shopping tour of the city.
Take a guided tour of the city’s bustling bazaars.
In the evening, attend a local concert or show.
Day 5 Take a day trip to the Kyzylkum Desert and go on a jeep safari.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Uzbek dinner in the desert.
Day 6 Explore the city’s several museums and historical places.
Visit the Magok-i-Attari Mosque and Mausoleum of Bahauddin Naqshbandi.
Embark on a guided city tour.
Day 7 Wrap up your trip by visiting the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum.
Buy souvenirs from the local markets and bazaars.
In the evening, have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Bukhara

Bukhara’s food scene is a unique blend of Central Asian, Persian and Russian cuisines. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Plov: A traditional Uzbek rice dish with lamb, carrots, and raisins.
  • Somsa: A savory pastry stuffed with meat, cheese, or potatoes.
  • Shurpa: A hearty soup made with meat and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Green tea: A traditional and refreshing Uzbek beverage that is served in all the local restaurants.
  • Kumis: A fermented dairy drink that is worth trying near Bukhara.

Where to Stay in Bukhara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bukhara has several budget-friendly and luxury accommodations for tourists. Some popular options include:

  • Boutique hotels: For a luxurious stay, consider a hotel such as the Sultan or Omar-Khayyam.
  • Hostels: For budget-friendly options, check out Amelia Boutique Hotel.
  • Guesthouses: Enjoy a homely atmosphere by staying in a guest house such as Golibdiyor Guesthouse.

What to Buy in Bukhara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The bazaars and markets of Bukhara are full of unique and authentic souvenirs. Some popular items include:

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics.
  • Embroidered tablecloths and napkins.
  • Silk scarves and ikat fabrics.

Local Culture and Customs of Bukhara

Being a Muslim country, it is important to respect the cultural customs of Uzbekistan. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering mosques or holy places. Do not drink alcohol in public and avoid smoking in public areas.

Best Time to Visit Bukhara

The best time to visit Bukhara is between April and May or September and October. These months have pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bukhara

Do:

  • Dress appropriately and respect the local culture.
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals and holy places.
  • Learn some basic phrases of the local language, such as “Salam” (hello) and “Rahmat” (thank you).

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public.
  • Smoke in public places.
  • Bargain too much in local markets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bukhara

Bukhara is a safe city for travelers. However, it is important to take necessary precautions like any other travel destination, such as taking care of your belongings and avoiding empty streets or alleys at night.

Health in Bukhara

There are no major health concerns in Bukhara. However, make sure to drink bottled water and be cautious while eating street food.

Getting to Bukhara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bukhara

The nearest airport to Bukhara is the Bukhara International Airport, which is located 5 kilometers from the city center. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your hotel.

Bus Stations Near Bukhara

Bukhara has several bus stations from where you can catch a bus to reach your destination. Some popular bus stations include the Bukhara Central Bus Station, Old City Bus Station or the Kagan Bus Station.

Other Options

You can also take a train from Tashkent to reach Bukhara, or you can hire a car or taxi service.

How to Get Around in Bukhara

Walking is the best way to get around in Bukhara because most of the attractions are located in the Old Town. Taxis and buses are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Bukhara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular nearby destinations and excursions from Bukhara include:

  • Samarkand: Explore the ancient city of Samarkand that is known for its stunning Islamic architecture and historical significance.
  • Khiva: Plan a day trip to Khiva, a well-preserved medieval city with ancient walls and stunning minarets.
  • Tashkent: The capital of Uzbekistan is a modern city with a blend of architectural heritage and modern infrastructure.

Conclusion

Bukhara is a must-visit destination in Uzbekistan for all types of travelers. From its culturally rich attractions to its outdoor adventures and amazing food scene, Bukhara has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the timeless charm of Bukhara!

Chor Minor Madrassah Chor Minor Madrassah Kalon Minaret Kalon Minaret A Bokhara carpet A Bokhara carpet