15 Incredible Things to Do in Khiva: Ultimate Guide to Uzbekistan’s Living Museum (2025)
Stepping through the massive gates of Khiva feels like walking straight into a medieval fairy tale. This ancient Silk Road city in western Uzbekistan is often called a “living museum” – and after visiting three times, I can confirm it’s one of the most magical places I’ve ever experienced!
Unlike other Uzbek cities where modern buildings mix with historical sites, Khiva’s walled inner city (Itchan Kala) remains almost perfectly preserved, with locals still living and working within its ancient walls. The result? A unique blend of living history that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share the absolute best things to do in Khiva, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
Jump to section:
✈️ FIND THE BEST FLIGHT DEALS TO KHIVA NOW!
Introduction to Khiva
Khiva’s history stretches back over 2,500 years, with origins as a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road trading route. Once the capital of the powerful Khanate of Khiva, this desert oasis city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, caravans laden with exotic goods, and centuries of fascinating cultural exchange.
What makes Khiva truly special is how perfectly preserved it remains. While cities like Samarkand and Bukhara also boast incredible historic sites, Khiva’s compact walled city offers the most complete medieval urban experience in Central Asia.
The UNESCO-protected Itchan Kala fortress contains over 50 historic monuments within its tall mud-brick walls, creating an open-air museum where you can wander for days. Yet despite this museum-like quality, Khiva remains a living, breathing community where residents go about their daily lives amidst ancient minarets and madrassas.
🌟 My Experience: I’ll never forget my first morning in Khiva – I woke before sunrise and slipped out to wander the empty streets as the first light touched the ancient walls. The only sounds were birds and the distant call to prayer echoing between minarets. In that moment, it felt like I had traveled back centuries in time. Even after three visits, this magical city still gives me goosebumps.
When to Visit Khiva
Timing your visit to Khiva is crucial for comfort and enjoyment. The best times to visit are:
- Spring (April to May): Mild temperatures (15-25°C/59-77°F) and blooming gardens make this my favorite season in Khiva. The light is perfect for photography, and tourist numbers are moderate.
- Fall (September to October): Another excellent time with pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer. The golden autumn light creates a magical atmosphere against the city’s mud-brick walls.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid summer (June-August) if possible, as temperatures regularly soar above 40°C (104°F), making daytime exploration uncomfortable. If you must visit in summer, plan activities for early morning and evening when temperatures are more bearable.
Winter (November-March) brings cold temperatures (often below freezing) but offers a unique perspective with occasional snow dusting the ancient architecture – just pack warm layers!
Getting to Khiva
Getting to this remote desert city requires some planning, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. Here are your main options:
By Air
The easiest approach is flying into Urgench Airport (UGC), located about 40km (25 miles) from Khiva. Regular flights connect from:
- Tashkent (1 hour)
- Moscow (4 hours)
From the airport, a taxi to Khiva costs around 70,000-100,000 Uzbek som (approximately $6-9 USD). For a budget option, take a shared taxi from Urgench bazaar for about 10,000 som per person.
✈️ BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS TO URGENCH HERE
By Train
Uzbekistan’s improving railway system now includes comfortable high-speed trains to Urgench from:
- Tashkent (14-16 hours)
- Samarkand (10-12 hours)
- Bukhara (7-9 hours)
The overnight trains have sleeping compartments and are surprisingly comfortable. From Urgench train station, take a taxi to Khiva (about 30-40 minutes).
💡 Pro Tip: I took the overnight train from Bukhara to Urgench and found it to be a fantastic experience. Request a lower berth when booking as these have window views and more space. The attendants provide clean bedding, and there’s usually a dining car selling simple meals and drinks. The gentle rocking of the train made for one of my best nights of sleep in Uzbekistan!
🚆 CHECK TRAIN SCHEDULES AND BOOK TICKETS HERE
By Private Transfer
For a hassle-free experience, I recommend booking a private transfer, especially if traveling between Uzbekistan’s major cities. This gives you the flexibility to stop at interesting sights along the way.
🚗 BOOK A PRIVATE TRANSFER TO KHIVA HERE
Top Things to Do in Khiva
Now for the exciting part – the best things to do in Khiva! Most attractions are concentrated within the walled inner city (Itchan Kala), making it easy to explore on foot.
A single ticket (approximately 120,000 Uzbek som or $10 USD) grants access to most sites within Itchan Kala and is valid for two days. You’ll need to show your ticket at security checkpoints at three of the four gates.
1. Explore Itchan Kala
Itchan Kala – The Walled City
UNESCO World Heritage 26 hectares
The walled inner city of Khiva is where you’ll spend most of your time. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains over 50 historic monuments and 250 old houses, most dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Walking through the massive gates feels like stepping back in time – narrow winding streets lead to breathtaking architectural ensembles, with distinctive blue-tiled domes and minarets creating a magical skyline.
Highlights:
- Enter through the magnificent West Gate near Kalta Minor
- Wander the maze-like streets with buildings dating back centuries
- Experience the peaceful atmosphere in early morning or late evening
- See local artisans at work in traditional workshops
Price Range: 120,000 som ($10 USD) for all-inclusive entry ticket
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning (before 8am) or at sunset when the light casts a golden glow on the mud-brick buildings and most tour groups are gone. This is when I captured my most stunning photos and had entire monuments to myself!
2. Climb the Islam Khoja Minaret
For the best views in Khiva, climb the 45 meters (148 feet) tall Islam Khoja Minaret. Built in the early 20th century as Khiva’s tallest structure, this stunning tower features traditional bands of blue, white, and gold ceramic tiles.
The climb up the narrow, winding staircase isn’t for the claustrophobic – at some points, the passageway is barely wider than your shoulders! But the panoramic vista of Khiva’s domes, minarets, and the surrounding desert landscape makes the effort worthwhile.
⚠️ Warning: The staircase is extremely narrow and dark in places with limited ventilation. If you suffer from claustrophobia or have mobility issues, you may want to skip this climb. There’s no elevator or alternative route.
Entry fee: Included in your Itchan Kala ticket
Climbing fee: 20,000 som (approximately $2)
3. Visit Juma Mosque
Juma Mosque
10th Century Origin 213 Wooden Columns
One of Khiva’s most unusual religious buildings, Juma Mosque (Friday Mosque) was rebuilt in 1788 but dates back to the 10th century. What makes it special is its forest of 213 intricately carved wooden columns supporting the roof. Some columns date back to the 10th-12th centuries, while others were added during later renovations. The effect of sunlight filtering through the skylights onto these ancient pillars creates an almost mystical atmosphere.
What Makes It Special:
- Unique interior design unlike traditional mosques
- Ancient wooden columns with intricate carvings
- Natural lighting through ceiling openings
- Peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds
Visit Duration: 30-45 minutes
💡 Pro Tip: Visit around noon when sunlight streams through the roof openings, creating dramatic light beams between the columns. This creates a mesmerizing, almost spiritual atmosphere that’s perfect for photography.
4. Marvel at Kalta Minor Minaret
Perhaps Khiva’s most iconic landmark, the dazzling turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret immediately catches your eye near the western gate. What makes it unique is that it was never completed!
Begun in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan, the minaret was intended to be the tallest in Central Asia at over 70 meters (230 feet). However, construction halted at just 29 meters (95 feet) when the Khan died in 1855, leaving this stout, brilliantly decorated tower as a testament to ambitious plans never realized.
The intricate blue, white, and turquoise tile work makes it a photographer’s dream, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.
🌟 My Experience: During my last visit to Khiva, I spent an entire evening just sitting on a bench across from Kalta Minor, watching as the setting sun transformed its colors from bright turquoise to deep sapphire. Local children played in the square while elderly men gathered for evening conversations nearby. It was one of those perfect travel moments where you feel completely immersed in a place.
5. Tour the Kuhna Ark
The Kuhna Ark (Old Fortress) served as the residence and administrative center for Khiva’s rulers from the 12th century until the early 20th century. Think of it as Khiva’s version of a royal palace complex.
Inside, you can explore several fascinating sections:
- The Summer Mosque with its exquisite blue and white tile work
- The Throne Room where the Khan received visitors
- The Mint where coins were produced
- The Watchtower offering sweeping views of the city
Don’t miss the small museum displaying artifacts from Khiva’s royal history and the beautiful reception courtyard with its ornate wooden columns.
| Section | Highlights | Historical Period | Photo Worthiness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Mosque | Blue and white tile work, mihrab | 19th century | ★★★★☆ |
| Throne Room | Royal reception hall, ornate ceiling | 18th century | ★★★★★ |
| Watchtower | Panoramic city views | 17th century | ★★★★★ |
| Museum Rooms | Historical artifacts, royal items | Various periods | ★★★☆☆ |
💡 Pro Tip: The guides here often have keys to rooms that are otherwise locked. Consider hiring one (around 50,000 som) for a more comprehensive experience. My guide Abdullah showed me hidden rooms including the Khan’s private library that I would have completely missed otherwise!
6. Visit the Mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmoud
One of Khiva’s most sacred sites, this mausoleum honors Pahlavan Mahmoud, a 14th-century poet, philosopher, and wrestler who became the city’s patron saint. The serene courtyard leads to a chamber containing his tomb, covered in beautiful blue tiles and prayer rugs.
What makes this site special is its spiritual significance – locals still come here to pray and pay respects. The sublime courtyard with its intricate majolica tilework creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s quite different from the more tourist-focused attractions.
⚠️ Warning: This is an active religious site. Remove shoes before entering and dress respectfully. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and bring a scarf to cover your head inside the mausoleum. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
7. Explore Tosh Hovli Palace
Tosh Hovli Palace
Built 1830-1838 Royal Residence
Built between 1830 and 1838 as the residence of Allakuli Khan, Tosh Hovli (Stone House) Palace showcases some of the finest architectural craftsmanship in Khiva. The palace features three courtyards: one for official receptions, another for the Khan’s harem, and a third for servants. The highlight is undoubtedly the harem section with its stunning blue ceramic tiles, intricate wood and stone carvings, and painted ceilings.
Don’t Miss:
- The harem courtyard with its stunning tilework
- Intricate wooden ceilings with painted designs
- Original stone lattice screens that provided privacy
- The Khan’s throne room with restored furnishings
Visit Duration: 45-60 minutes
🌟 My Experience: What fascinated me most about Tosh Hovli was imagining the lives of the women in the harem. Our guide explained that contrary to common misconceptions, many of these women were highly educated and wielded significant influence in court politics. The intricate lattice screens allowed them to observe court proceedings without being seen – giving them knowledge while remaining “invisible” to outsiders.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for the restored reception hall where you can sit on the replica of the Khan’s throne for photos (usually for a small tip to the attendant of around 5,000-10,000 som).
8. Watch Sunset from the City Walls
For a magical experience, climb up to the city walls near the North Gate just before sunset. From this vantage point, you can watch the sun sink behind Khiva’s minarets and domes, bathing everything in golden light.
The mud-brick walls stretch for 2.2 kilometers around Itchan Kala and reach heights of 10 meters in some sections. Walking a portion of the wall gives you a different perspective on the city and insight into its historical defenses.
📸 BOOK A SUNSET PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
9. Visit the Silk Workshop
Near Kalta Minor, you’ll find a traditional silk carpet workshop where you can observe the entire process of carpet making, from silk cocoon processing to weaving intricate designs.
The workshop demonstrates centuries-old techniques that have been passed down through generations. The craftsmanship is extraordinary – some carpets take years to complete.
How to Save Money on Silk Products:
- Small silk items like scarves make more affordable souvenirs than carpets
- Visit multiple workshops to compare prices before purchasing
- Consider buying from local markets outside Itchan Kala for better prices
- Be prepared to negotiate – start at about 60-70% of the initial asking price
10. Explore Islom Hoja Medressa
Built in 1910, this Islamic school is one of Khiva’s newest historical monuments, constructed just before the Russian Revolution. Despite its relative youth, the building follows traditional architectural patterns with a beautiful courtyard surrounded by student cells.
Today it houses the Museum of Applied Arts, displaying excellent examples of Khivan craftsmanship including woodcarving, metalwork, carpet weaving, and embroidery.
The attached minaret (the Islam Khoja Minaret mentioned earlier) was built in the traditional style but using modern construction techniques.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for the small door at the back of the courtyard that leads to the minaret climb. Many visitors miss this and don’t realize they can ascend the tower from here.
11. Experience Local Life Beyond Itchan Kala
While Itchan Kala is undeniably magnificent, don’t miss experiencing the “real Khiva” outside the walls. The outer town (Dishan Kala) is where most locals live and offers a glimpse into contemporary Uzbek life.
Wander the streets, visit local shops, and interact with residents going about their daily routines. You’ll find smaller museums, local markets, and neighborhood mosques that few tourists ever see.
One highlight is the Nurullaboy Palace, located about 1.5km from the West Gate. Built in the 19th century as the “new palace” outside the crowded inner city, it shows the transition toward more European-influenced design.
🌟 My Experience: One evening, I ventured beyond the tourist area and found myself invited to join a local family for tea. Despite the language barrier, we communicated through smiles, gestures, and my few words of Uzbek. The elderly grandmother showed me how to properly make traditional non bread in their clay tandir oven – a memory I’ll treasure forever. These unexpected encounters are the heart of travel.
🚲 BOOK A BICYCLE TOUR OF KHIVA’S OUTER CITY
12. Shop at the Bazaar
Khiva’s bazaar, located just outside the East Gate, offers a less touristy shopping experience than the souvenir shops within Itchan Kala. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles and everyday household items.
Look for authentic souvenirs like:
- Hand-carved wooden boxes and chess sets
- Traditional Khivan tubeteika (embroidered skullcaps)
- Hand-woven suzani textiles
- Ceramic plates and bowls with traditional patterns
Bargaining is expected but should be done respectfully. Start by offering about 60-70% of the asking price and work from there.
Negotiation Tips for the Bazaar:
- Be friendly and smile – aggressive bargaining won’t be well-received
- Learn a few words of Uzbek or Russian to break the ice
- Don’t show too much enthusiasm for an item you really want
- Be prepared to walk away if the price isn’t right
- Remember that a few thousand som difference may mean little to you but a lot to the vendor
13. Try Traditional Uzbek Cuisine
Khivan Culinary Delights
Local Specialties Silk Road Flavors
Khivan cuisine blends influences from across Central Asia, with a few local specialties worth seeking out. The most distinctive dish is shivit oshi – a variation of Uzbekistan’s famous plov (rice pilaf) made with green noodles colored with dill. Also try tuhum barak (dumplings filled with eggs and herbs) and fresh non bread baked in traditional clay tandirs.
Top Restaurant Recommendations:
- Terrassa Café – Rooftop restaurant with stunning views
- Khorezm Art Restaurant – Traditional dishes in a restored madrassa
- Zarafshon Restaurant – Authentic Uzbek dishes at reasonable prices
- Cafe Yasavul – Great for breakfast and lighter meals
Price Range: 30,000-120,000 som ($3-10 USD) per meal
🌟 My Experience: Don’t miss having tea and snacks on the terraces overlooking Itchan Kala. During my last visit, I spent an unforgettable evening at Terrassa Café, watching the sunset paint the ancient city gold while enjoying fragrant green tea and warm, freshly baked non bread with honey. The price was slightly higher than other places, but the magical atmosphere was worth every som!
14. Visit the Puppet Theater
Central Asian puppet shows have a history stretching back centuries. In Khiva, you can watch traditional performances at the small puppet theater near the West Gate.
Shows typically depict folk tales and historical stories about Khiva, providing entertainment while offering cultural insights. Performances usually last about 30 minutes and are visual enough to enjoy even if you don’t understand the language.
💡 Pro Tip: Performances are typically held in the late afternoon. Check with your hotel for the current schedule as they can change seasonally. Arriving 15-20 minutes early ensures you get better seats.
15. Take a Day Trip to Ayaz Kala
If you have an extra day, consider a trip to the desert fortresses of Ayaz Kala, located about 110km northeast of Khiva. These impressive ruins date back to the 4th century BCE and were part of a chain of fortresses protecting the agricultural settlements of ancient Khorezm.
The remote desert setting, with stunning views over the surrounding plains and a nearby lake, creates a dramatic contrast to Khiva’s urban environment. You can even stay overnight in traditional yurts near the site for a full desert experience.
🏜️ BOOK A DAY TRIP TO AYAZ KALA DESERT FORTRESSES
Where to Stay in Khiva
Khiva offers accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. For the best experience, I recommend staying within or very near Itchan Kala.
Luxury
Orient Star Khiva Hotel
Historic Building Central Location
This unique hotel is set in a converted 19th-century madrassa, offering an atmospheric stay with rooms in the former student cells arranged around a beautiful courtyard. The location next to Kalta Minor couldn’t be more central. Each room features traditional design elements combined with modern amenities.
Hotel Highlights:
- Rooms in a historic madrassa building
- Central location next to Kalta Minor
- Beautiful courtyard dining area
- Traditional architecture with modern comforts
Price Range: $70-120 USD per night
Muso To’ra Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel Rooftop Terrace
A beautifully restored merchant’s house within the old city walls, offering traditional design with modern comforts. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views over Khiva’s minarets, especially magical at sunset. The attention to detail in the decor creates a truly authentic atmosphere.
What Makes It Special:
- Authentic restoration of a historic merchant home
- Panoramic views from the rooftop terrace
- Intimate atmosphere with only 15 rooms
- Beautifully decorated with local crafts and textiles
Price Range: $60-100 USD per night
Mid-Range
Arkanchi Hotel
Centrally located near the West Gate, this hotel combines traditional architecture with comfortable rooms and excellent service. The courtyard restaurant serves delicious local cuisine.
CHECK RATES FOR ARKANCHI HOTEL
Malika Kheivak Hotel
A charming hotel with traditional décor and a peaceful garden courtyard, located within walking distance of all major attractions. Friendly staff and good breakfast.
RESERVE A ROOM AT MALIKA KHEIVAK HOTEL
Budget
Islambek Hotel
A welcoming family-run guesthouse offering simple but clean rooms and delicious homemade breakfast. The friendly owners provide excellent local advice.
Meros B&B
Located just outside the East Gate, this budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms around a traditional courtyard. The family atmosphere and home-cooked meals make it a traveler favorite.
CHECK AVAILABILITY AT MEROS B&B
Practical Information
Getting Around Khiva
Khiva’s old town is small and best explored on foot. The entire Itchan Kala can be walked across in about 15 minutes. For exploring the outer city (Dishan Kala):
- Bicycle rental: Available from several hotels and shops (50,000-70,000 som per day)
- Taxis: Readily available outside the gates (negotiate price before entering)
- Scooter rental: A fun option for covering more ground (approximately 150,000 som per day)
Money and Costs
The local currency is the Uzbek som (UZS). While more places now accept credit cards, having cash is essential for smaller shops, restaurants, and admission fees.
| Item | Cost in Uzbek Som | Approximate USD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget meal | 30,000-50,000 | $2.50-4.00 | Street food or simple cafes |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | 70,000-120,000 | $6.00-10.00 | Full meal with drinks |
| Local beer | 15,000-25,000 | $1.25-2.00 | Restaurant price |
| Bottle of water | 5,000-10,000 | $0.40-0.80 | 1.5 liter bottle |
| Itchan Kala ticket | 120,000 | $10.00 | Valid for 2 days |
| Souvenir magnet | 15,000-30,000 | $1.25-2.50 | Negotiable |
| Hand-painted ceramic plate | 100,000-300,000 | $8.00-25.00 | Depends on size/quality |
| Taxi from Urgench to Khiva | 70,000-100,000 | $6.00-8.00 | One-way, negotiable |
Money-Saving Tips:
- Bring USD in cash as backup – ATMs can be unreliable
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
- Exchange money at official banks rather than black market
- Keep small denominations handy for small purchases and tips
- Consider a multi-day tour package if visiting several Uzbek cities
Language
Uzbek is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken. English is increasingly common in tourist areas but less so outside them. Learning a few basic Uzbek phrases will be appreciated:
- Hello: Assalomu alaykum
- Thank you: Rahmat
- Yes/No: Ha/Yo’q
- How much?: Qancha?
- Beautiful: Chiroyli
💡 Pro Tip: Download the Google Translate Uzbek language pack to your phone before your trip. The offline translation works surprisingly well for basic conversations and reading menus or signs.
Internet and Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some restaurants but can be slow. For reliable connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card (available at the airport or in Urgench). Ucell and Beeline offer reasonable tourist packages.
🌐 GET AN INTERNATIONAL SIM CARD BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Khiva worth visiting?
Absolutely yes! Khiva offers a unique experience that differs from Uzbekistan’s other famous cities. Its compact, well-preserved medieval center creates an immersive historical experience unlike anywhere else in Central Asia. The architectural ensemble of blue-domed mosques, minarets, and madrassas creates a magical atmosphere, especially in the early morning or evening light.
Is one day in Khiva enough?
One full day allows you to see the main highlights, but feels rushed. I recommend at least two days to properly appreciate Khiva’s charm. This gives you time to:
- See the major monuments without hurrying
- Experience the city at different times of day
- Explore beyond the main tourist path
- Enjoy leisurely meals and tea breaks
How much time do I need in Khiva?
Most travelers find 1-2 days sufficient for the main sights, with a third day ideal for exploring areas outside Itchan Kala or taking day trips. If you’re particularly interested in history or architecture, you could easily spend 3-4 days exploring everything in depth.
Can I skip Khiva on my Uzbekistan trip?
While not essential if you’re short on time, skipping Khiva means missing what many consider the most atmospheric of Uzbekistan’s historic cities. If you must choose between Uzbekistan’s “big three” historical cities, each offers something different:
- Samarkand: Grandest monuments, more spread out
- Bukhara: Excellent blend of living city and historic sites
- Khiva: Most compact and complete medieval urban experience
📋 BROWSE UZBEKISTAN TOUR PACKAGES
Final Thoughts
Experience the Magic of Khiva
Khiva is more than just a stop on the Silk Road – it’s a journey into Uzbekistan’s soul. From breathtaking architecture to welcoming locals, this living museum offers experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Don’t miss your chance to walk through centuries of history in this magical desert city!
Khiva is more than just a stop on the Silk Road or a collection of historic buildings – it’s a journey into Uzbekistan’s soul. Walking through its ancient gates feels like entering a world where time moves differently, where centuries of history come alive around every corner.
What makes this desert city truly special is the way it balances its status as a “living museum” with authentic daily life. As you explore, you’ll encounter locals going about their routines amidst some of Central Asia’s most magnificent architecture – children playing in ancient courtyards, artisans practicing centuries-old crafts, and families gathering for evening meals as the muezzin’s call echoes across the city.
Whether you’re marveling at the turquoise tiles of Kalta Minor, watching sunset cast golden light across mud-brick walls, or sharing tea with a local shopkeeper, Khiva offers experiences that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home.
So pack your curiosity, comfortable shoes, and camera – this ancient Silk Road gem is waiting to share its stories with you.
Have you been to Khiva or are you planning a trip? I’d love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions in the comments below!
