Complete Travel Guide to Uzbekistan from India - 2024

Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Once a major center on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan boasts stunning Islamic architecture, friendly locals, and a delicious cuisine. Here's a complete travel guide to Uzbekistan for Indian travelers:

Travel guide to Uzbekistan from India

Visa to Uzbekistan from India

The good news is that Indians are eligible for a visa on arrival or an e-visa for Uzbekistan. The e-visa is the most convenient option and can be obtained online [Uzbekistan e visa ON The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan e-visa.uz. You will need a scanned copy of your passport and a passport photo. The visa is valid for 30 days and costs $50.

Getting There

There are direct flights from New Delhi to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, on IndiGo. The flight time is around 2.5 hours. You can also fly with connecting airlines like Turkish Airlines.

Getting Around

^Afrosiyob

Uzbekistan has a well-developed transportation system. The most comfortable way to travel between cities is by high-speed train (Afrosiyob). Tickets can be booked online in advance [advantour uzbekistan ON Advantour advanTOUR.com since they tend to sell out. Taxis are also a cheap and plentiful option, but be sure to agree on a price beforehand. You can use the Yandex Go app to hail a ride.

Also read: Dubai's $35 Billion Plan: Relocating Busy International Airport to New Facility Within a Decade

Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit Uzbekistan when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be very hot, while winters are cold and snowy.

Money and Costs

^{Uzbekistani som}

The currency in Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani som (UZS). You can exchange Indian rupees (INR) for UZS at currency exchange offices in Tashkent and other major cities. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is best to carry cash.

Travel costs to Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a relatively budget-friendly destination. Here's a rough estimate of daily costs:

• Accommodation: INR 1,000-3,000

• Food: INR 500-1,000

• Transportation: INR 300-500

• Activities: INR 1,000 (depending on the activity)

Things to Do in Uzbekistan

Tashkent:

The capital city is a modern metropolis with a historic core. Visit the Chorsu Bazaar, a bustling marketplace, and Amir Timur Square, a central landmark.

Samarkand:

A jewel of the Silk Road, Samarkand is famous for its Registan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum.

Bukhara:

Another ancient Silk Road city, Bukhara is known for its well-preserved mosques, madrasas (Islamic schools), and trading domes. Visit the Kalyan Minaret, the Magoki-Attari Mosque, and the Ark Fortress.

Khiva:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khiva is an open-air museum with a unique mudbrick architecture. Explore the Itchan Kala, the old walled city, and climb the Islam Khoja Minaret for panoramic views.

Also see: Unexplored places in UAE that you must visit on your next visit

Must-Try Dishes:

Plov (Plov or Osh):

Uzbekistan's national dish, plov is a hearty rice pilaf cooked with meat (usually lamb or beef), julienned carrots, onions, and spices like cumin, barberries, and raisins. Each region boasts its own plov variation, so be sure to try them all!

Shashlik:

Shashlik refers to skewers of marinated and grilled meat, a mainstay across Central Asia. In Uzbekistan, you'll find lamb shashlik most commonly, but chicken, beef, and even quail are popular options. These skewers are typically served with chopped onions sprinkled with vinegar for a refreshing contrast.

Manti:

These steamed or boiled dumplings are a comforting and flavorful option. Manti come in various shapes and sizes, but generally feature a thin dough stuffed with a savory filling of ground lamb or beef, onions, and spices. They are often served with a dollop of sour cream or a yogurt sauce for dipping.

Shorpo:

This hearty soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. Shurpa variations abound, but most feature lamb or beef, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a generous amount of fresh dill.

Also read: How to Save Money at the Airport

Uzbekistan awaits with its welcoming arms, ancient cities, and a treasure trove of culinary delights. This complete guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the country, savor its flavors, and immerse yourself in its rich culture. So, pack your bags, dust off your walking shoes, and get ready to experience the magic of Uzbekistan for yourself!