10 Best Things To Do In Bukhara, Uzbekistan

1. Delve into the history of Khoja-Gaukushan Ensemble

Khoja-Gaukushan Ensemble is an outstanding historic attraction and a massive architectural structure, which lies in the heart of Bukhara in Uzbekistan. The development of the spectacular complex took place during the era of Uzbek Khan Abdullah II in 1570. Gaukushan stands for killing bulls, as, in the past, the site was famous for animal trading. The magnificent complex is home to a madrassa, which means Islamic religious school, and a mosque with a towering minaret. If you are a history buff, have a great time exploring the complex and learning more about its significance and history.

Khoja-Gaukushan Ensemble

Address: Bukhara, Uzbekistan

2. Descend deep into the layers of Magok-i-Attari Mosque

If ancient architectural structures and culture fascinate you, make sure that you visit Magok-I Attari Mosque during your excursion in Bukhara. Magok-I Attari Mosque stands for deep mosque or mosque in the pit, and it is famous for being one of the oldest persisting architectural monuments in Bukhara that lies between Taki Telpal Furushon and Taki Sarrafon trading areas. As you tour through the mosque, watch the remains of a Buddhist monastery, a mosque belonging to the Arab invaders, and a Zoroastrian temple. Learn how the Soviet archaeologist discovered all these while carrying out excavations in 1935.

Magok-i-Attari Mosque

Address: 55 Mekhtar Anbar St, Bukhara 200118, Uzbekistan

3. Climb up to the top of exquisite Chor Minor

Enrich your travel experience by visiting spectacular Chor Minor, a brick-built monument resembling an upside-down chair with four magnificent turquoise domes adorning the top. An affluent Turkmen merchant famous as Khalif Niyazkul constructed it in 1807. Each of the four towers features a unique form. Check them out to find some unique elements of decoration, such as the image of Christian fish, cross, Islamic and Zoroastrian motifs, and Buddhist praying wheels. By paying designated charges, you can also walk up to the roof of Chor Minar and take in the views around.

Chor Minor Madrassah

Address: Khodja Nurobobod St., Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Price: 5.5 USD to climb to the roof

4. Shop souvenirs at Toqi Sarrofon Bazaar

Shopping lovely souvenirs in a historic site is indeed a pleasant experience, which you can enjoy while exploring Bukhara. A historic site in the city features big covered trading domes that attract tourists and shopaholics to buy various useful and beautiful things. It is one of the four trading domes that continues to greet visitors from ages. So, visit the well-known Toqi Sarrofon Bazaar and buy exquisite carpets, beautiful kerchiefs, and many more lovely traditional souvenirs for you and your loved ones back home.

Toqi Sarrofon Bazaar

Address: Mekhtar Anbar St, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

5. Offer your prayers at Po-i-Kalyan

Another architectural masterpiece is Bukhara is Po-i-Kalyan. The name Po-i-Kalyan stands for The Foot of the Great. The system of Po-i-Kalyan comprises three prominent historic structures, namely Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasah. Of these, Kalyan Minaret is famous for being the oldest monument in the complex dating back to the 12th century. Also, it is well-known for retaining its original structure without any restorations. It features narrow steps that you can climb to get to its top for scenic views of Bukhara. Next comes Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, which belongs to the 16th century and still functions as an Islamic school. Kalyan Mosque is well-known as the main mosque of the city with traditional Islamic architecture adorning it. It is home to vaulted galleries and 288 domes on several pillars that are sure to please you.

Po-i-Kalyan

Address: Khodja Nurobobod St, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

6. Marvel at Ark of Bukhara

Are you a history buff longing to explore historic forts when holidaying in Uzbekistan? Then, the Ark of Bukhara awaits you. It’s a gigantic fortress that dates back to the 5th century. Back then, the Ark of Bukhara was home to emirs and comprised of workshops, armory, mosque, jail, and more. Today, even though the structure is in ruins, the remnants of the halls and rooms will interest you. The historic site of musical pavilion, coronation court, mosque, prison cells, horse stables, small stores, audience chamber, and Bukharan emir’s huge throne-room along with the throne within the fortress will enthrall you.

Ark of Bukhara

Address: Afrosiab St, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

7. Pray at elegant Bolo Haouz Mosque

Bolo Haouz Mosque is another famous historic mosque in this ancient city in Uzbekistan. It dates back to 1712 and occupies space in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Towering pillars bearing intricate carvings adorn the entrance, and it is the most captivating feature of this magnificent mosque. The monument is home to a minaret and a small pond. Remove your shoes before entering.

Bolo Haouz Mosque

Address: Bukhara, Uzbekistan

8. Discover the dark past at Zindan

If you are curious about the dark past of Bukhara, visit Zindan, which dates back to the 18th century. Zindan stands for prison in Persian. The prison, which used to house dissenters and criminals in the era of Bukhara Emirate, is now a museum. The historic brick prison can accommodate up to 40 prisoners and also has an underground dungeon. The prison ceased to function in 1920 after the fall of the Bukhara Emirate and, then, turned into a museum.

Zindan

Address: Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

9. Unwind at Samonids Recreation Park and admire the beauty

Samonids Recreation Park greets you to a nice break away from the bustling city. So, take time out of your busy travel schedule and spend some refreshing time here. The park is also home to Samanid Mausoleum, which is known for being the tomb of Ismail Samani and other members belonging to the Samanid dynasty. Its construction took place between 892 and 943 CE, and it got buried in the mud. Later, it was discovered in 1934.

Samonids Recreation Park

Address: 110 st. Bahauddin Naqshbandi, Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free entry

10. Tour through Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum

Get to know about the lifestyle of the affluent merchant in Bukhara in the 19th century by visiting Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum. Fayzulla Khodjaev was a well-known leader of the youth political party in Burkhara, and he struggled for democracy and equal rights. Residents of the city still honor him. Fayzulla Khodjaev House belongs to his father, who was a famous and affluent merchant trading karakul pelt in various nations. A visit to Fayzulla’s family home, which is now a museum, introduces you to his life in the 19th century. Watch various areas of the house that includes balconies, living rooms, reception, and many more. The museum features various showcasing events, such as the Kitchen of a Wealthy Merchant’s House exhibition. Admire the crockery items, beautiful wall paintings, and woodcarvings as you explore the house-museum.

Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum

Address: 55 Mekhtar Anbar St, Bukhara 200118, Uzbekistan

Website: Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Take your travel experience to the next level

Bukhara is a spectacular historic destination in Uzbekistan that is sure to pique the interest of every history buff. And, if you are planning your upcoming holidays to this magnificent ancient city, make sure that you enjoy the best things to do in Bukhara and enrich your travel experience.