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Country Facts
Capital
Tashkent
Size
173,351 sq mi
Time Zone
GMT+5
Population
36,361,859
Currency
Uzbekistani Som
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan, located in the heart of Central Asia, is a captivating destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning architecture. As a key stop on the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan is home to magnificent cities, centuries-old monuments, and a vibrant blend of Eastern traditions. The country offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking to explore its historic cities, bustling bazaars, and dramatic landscapes.
Reasons to visit Uzbekistan:
- Samarkand:
- One of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia, Samarkand is renowned for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance. The iconic Registan Square is a must-see, with its three majestic madrassas adorned in intricate blue tilework. Other key attractions include Gur-e-Amir, the tomb of the great conqueror Timur (Tamerlane), and the impressive Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
- Bukhara:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bukhara is a living museum of Central Asian architecture. The city boasts over 140 monuments, including the Ark Fortress, the majestic Kalyan Minaret, and the Lyab-i Hauz ensemble, a charming plaza surrounding a pond. Bukhara’s old town is also home to historic mosques, madrassas, and traditional bazaars.
- Khiva:
- The ancient city of Khiva is another UNESCO-listed gem. Its walled inner city, Itchan Kala, is a perfectly preserved medieval town filled with stunning structures like the Kalta Minor Minaret, Kunya-Ark Fortress, and the Tash-Khovli Palace. Khiva’s narrow alleys and mud-brick architecture transport visitors back to the days of the Silk Road.
- Tashkent:
- The capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, blends Soviet-era architecture with modern development and traditional Islamic design. Chorsu Bazaar is one of the city’s liveliest markets, while Hazrati Imam Complex and the Independence Square showcase the city’s cultural heritage. Tashkent is also a gateway to the country’s high-speed rail network, connecting visitors to other historic cities.
- Fergana Valley:
- Known for its lush landscapes and skilled artisans, the Fergana Valley is the heart of Uzbekistan’s craft traditions. The town of Margilan is famous for its silk production, while Rishtan is known for its beautiful pottery. Visitors can explore traditional workshops and meet master craftsmen.
- Nukus and the Aral Sea:
- For adventurous travelers, Nukus offers access to the haunting remnants of the Aral Sea, one of the world’s most dramatic environmental disasters. The Moynaq Ship Cemetery and the Savitsky Art Museum, which houses a unique collection of Soviet avant-garde art, are highlights of the region.
Cultural Experiences
- Uzbek Cuisine: Uzbek food is hearty and flavorful, with popular dishes like plov (rice pilaf with meat and vegetables), manty (dumplings), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers). Visitors can also enjoy freshly baked non bread and traditional sweets such as halva.
- Traditional Bazaars: Uzbekistan’s markets are vibrant centers of local life, offering spices, handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. The Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent and Siyob Bazaar in Samarkand are must-visit spots for an authentic shopping experience.
- Hospitality and Guesthouses: Many travelers choose to stay in traditional guesthouses where they can experience the warm hospitality of Uzbek families, learn about local customs, and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Festivals and Events
- Nowruz (March): Celebrated widely across Uzbekistan, this ancient Persian New Year festival welcomes spring with music, dancing, and traditional games.
- Silk and Spices Festival (Bukhara): Held in late May, this festival showcases traditional crafts, music, and cuisine, celebrating Bukhara’s historic role on the Silk Road.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Visas: Uzbekistan offers visa-free travel to many countries, and an e-visa system is available for others, making it easier than ever to visit.
- Transportation: Uzbekistan has a well-developed transport network, including a high-speed train that connects major cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, allowing for comfortable and efficient travel.
- Safety: Uzbekistan is generally considered safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. It is an excellent destination for solo travelers and those interested in cultural tourism.
Why Visit Uzbekistan?
With its rich history, stunning Islamic architecture, vibrant markets, and welcoming people, Uzbekistan offers an unparalleled travel experience. Whether you’re walking the ancient streets of Samarkand, admiring the grandeur of Bukhara, or exploring the desert landscapes of Khiva, the country provides a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure.
Preparing For A Trip To Uzbekistan?
Visa Information / Entry requirements to Uzbekistan
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Uzbekistan’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Uzbekistan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Uzbek Embassy in the UK.
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Uzbekistan.
Passport validity requirements
If you’re visiting Uzbekistan, your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months from the day you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
If you have a British citizen passport, you can enter Uzbekistan as a visitor for stays of up to 30 days without a visa.
If you’re travelling on a different type of British passport, travelling for a purpose other than tourism or business, or intend to stay longer than 30 days, you should check entry requirements with the Uzbek Embassy in the UK.
If you’re entering Uzbekistan on an Uzbek visa, check it and carefully note the date of expiry and the number of entries permitted.
Do not overstay your visa, or exceed your permitted duration of stay, even for a very short period. If you overstay, you could get a fine and possibly be deported. It is not always easy or possible to extend your stay or visa if you want to stay in the country for longer than planned. If you’re travelling overland, make sure you arrive at your intended border crossing in good time before your period of stay or visa expires.
For more information on visas, contact the Uzbek Embassy in the UK.
Make sure you get your passport stamped.
Border guards check the stamp on exit to ensure that travellers do not exceed the 30-day period.
Registering with the authorities
You must register with the local district OVIR (Department of Foreign Travel and Exit) within 3 days of your arrival. Saturdays and Sundays count as part of the 3-day period. If you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll be asked for your passport at check-in. Hotel staff will complete the registration paperwork and return your passport. If you do not register within 3 days of arrival in the country, you get fined for each day you are late.
If you’re staying in a private house, your host should register you directly with their local district OVIR or on the electronic registration system, Emehmon. If you travel to another city and plan to stay for longer than 3 days, you’ll need to register again. You must follow this procedure, as a full record of where you’ve been in Uzbekistan is required upon departure. If you are unable to account for your whereabouts, you could get a fined for each day you are late and possibly be deported.
Travelling through Uzbekistan
If you’re travelling through Uzbekistan in a recreational vehicle or staying in tents and camping, you must register yourself. Register online through the electronic registration system, Emehmon, within 3 days of arrival. When you’re registering online, you’ll have to pay a tourist tax charge for each day of your stay. At the moment you can only pay the tourist tax online with an Uzbek debit card in local currency – seek assistance from hotels or local tour operators.
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Tourism Health Information – Uzbekistan
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 103 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Uzbekistan
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Uzbekistan.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Uzbekistan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Air quality
Air quality in the Karakalpakstan and Khorezm regions has deteriorated because of storms over the Aral Sea bringing salt, dust and pollutants into the air. You should minimise your exposure to outside air by staying in an air-conditioned indoor place as much as possible, with windows and doors closed and well sealed. Wash all fruit, vegetables and other foods, which might have been exposed. Regularly damp-dust all indoor surfaces, washing your hands afterwards. It is unclear when the air quality will improve. Monitor local reports and weather forecasts for the latest information and advice.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. See Customs rules.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Uzbekistan
The quality of medical care in Uzbekistan is generally poor. Most hospitals are badly equipped and unhygienic, with a limited supply of drugs. There is no guarantee that equipment will have been properly sterilised, especially in rural hospitals. You should avoid all but basic or essential treatment in the event of an emergency. Medical insurance companies usually refer complaints of a more serious nature to hospitals in Europe or New Delhi.
There is no reciprocal healthcare agreement between the UK and Uzbekistan.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Uzbekistan where some staff will speak English.
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Weather & When To Go To Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and minimal rainfall. The best time to visit depends on the activities you want to engage in and your tolerance for heat or cold.
Spring (March to May) – Best Time to Visit
- Weather: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with blooming landscapes.
- Why Visit: Spring is ideal for sightseeing, especially in historic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. The warm weather is comfortable for exploring architectural wonders and local markets.
- Festivals: Nowruz (Persian New Year) is celebrated in March, a vibrant time to experience Uzbek culture.
Summer (June to August) – Hot and Dry
- Weather: Very hot, with temperatures reaching 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) or higher, particularly in July and August.
- Why Visit: Although hot, summer is a good time for adventure tourism, such as trekking in mountainous regions like the Fergana Valley or Chimgan. If you’re visiting the cities, early mornings and evenings are best for sightseeing.
- Tip: Be prepared for high heat; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Autumn (September to November) – Best Time to Visit
- Weather: Mild and comfortable, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
- Why Visit: Like spring, autumn is another ideal season for cultural exploration and city visits. The harvest season means local markets are full of fresh fruits and produce. September and October are especially pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the Silk Road cities.
Winter (December to February) – Cold and Snowy
- Weather: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 45°F), and occasional snow, especially in mountainous areas.
- Why Visit: Winter is less crowded and cheaper, making it ideal for budget travelers. While the cold limits some outdoor activities, winter offers a different charm, especially in cities like Tashkent and Samarkand. This season is also great for skiing in the Chimgan Mountains.
Best Time Overall
The most popular times to visit Uzbekistan are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Avoid the peak summer heat unless you’re focused on trekking or desert exploration.
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