Uzbekistan Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Tashkent.

Geography:

Covering approximately 448,000 sq km (173,000 square miles), Uzbekistan (literally ‘land of the Uzbeks’) is one of the larger countries in Central Asia (Kazakhstan is by far the largest) and the only one sharing borders with four other Central Asian states. Mountainous Kyrgyzstan lies to the northeast, Tajikistan to the south, Turkmenistan to the southwest, and Kazakhstan to the north with which it shares a suitably long border at 2,203km (1,370 miles). There is also a very short 137km (85 miles) border with war-torn Afghanistan.

To the north, and in the central part of the country, lies one of the largest deserts in the world – Kyzyl Kum (meaning ‘red sand’ in Turkic), where the odd camel grazes and where gold is mined in the centre. Elsewhere, the terrain of Uzbekistan is mostly flat. Desert dunes cover the country and some river valleys flow along the courses of the Amu Darya, Syr Darya (Sirdaryo), and Zarafshon rivers.

Steppe land and desert plains account for two-thirds of the land mass, with the remainder of the land rising into the foothills of the Tien Shan mountain range. The peaks along the border of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan reach to over 4,000m (13,000ft). While less than 10% of the land is arable, there are plenty of minerals, containing stocks of natural gas, lignite and coal, gold (it is the world’s ninth largest producer) and copper.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The national airline is Uzbekistan Airways (www.uzairways.com), which offers direct flights from London. There are also plenty of indirect flight options with carriers such as Lufthansa (www.lufthansa.com), Aeroflot (www.aeroflot.com), Turkish Airlines (www.turkishairlines.com) and Air Baltic (www.airbaltic.com).

Air Travel Note

Customs forms are sometimes cause for concern with travellers entering or departing by air – these forms (there are two copies to fill out, one for them, one that you keep) simply require you to declare any currency you are either bringing into, or taking out of, Uzbekistan, along with the amount. Essentially the authorities are checking that you are not leaving Uzbekistan with more foreign money than you brought in; if this is found to be the case you will incur a significant fine.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

From London - 7 hours. 

Getting There By Road

Uzbekistan has road connections to all its neighbours. A Friendship Bridge links Afghanistan with Termiz in Uzbekistan (Termiz is a small city of little interest sitting at the southern most point of Uzbekistan), which while open to tourists, can sometimes close due to security concerns. It is advisable to check with a travel agent or locals before setting off.

The neighbouring country of Kyrgyzstan, popular with trekkers and mountaineers, offers three main border crossings into Uzbekistan: Uchkurgan, Dustlyk (Dostyk) and Khanabad (not to be confused with the ‘Khanabad’ in Afghanistan). The third is the most problematic. The region remains conservative and sees very few travellers.

Security can be tight at all crossings; you need to fill out customs forms and there can be long waits, so try to arrive early in the morning. Buses do travel between Tashkent and Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) but as they pass through Kazakhstan, you need to arrange a Kazakh visa in advance. Visas are not available at any of these land borders.

For crossing into Tajikistan, the best, most scenic route, is between Samarkand and Penjikent (although this border often closes due to political tensions and there is no public transport). Taxis, which are readily available, are the only way to cross. Alternatively, the Oybek (Uzbekistan) border crossing, (a one-hour drive to Khujand in Tajikistan), is easier and is usually open. The last option is Denau (a two-hour drive from Termiz in Uzbekistan) -Tursanzade (a 45-minute drive to Dushanbe, capital of Tajikistan). Again, arrive early, be patient and arrive with the correct visas.

Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are also linked by road. Most locals do this journey by shared taxi. The two easiest border crossings are the crossing that joins Bukhara with Turkmenabat and the Khiva/Urgench (the ‘Shavat to Dashoguz’ crossing). These borders have lengthy lunch breaks, and the Turkmen authorities will charge each traveller around US$12 ‘entry tax’, which must be paid in US Dollars only.

Kazakhstan offers two main entry points: the Chernyaevka crossing between Tashkent and Shymkent (easy, but long waiting times) and the more remote crossing between Karakalpakstan and Beyneu in western Kazakhstan.

Getting There By Water

Uzbekistan is doubly landlocked. There are no sea ports.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Uzbekistan Airways (www.uzairways.com) flies to all the major towns and cities in Uzbekistan on a regular basis. Destinations include Andijan, Karshi, Namangan, Navoi (which is 45 minutes by bus from Bukhara), Nukus, Samarkand, Tashkent and Termez.

Air Travel Note

There's good infrastructure in Tashkent (compared with airports in surrounding countries such as Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan) but expect delays and allow plenty of time to clear security.

Bike

You can hire bikes from the East Line Tour company (www.eastlinetour.uz) in Bukhara, a city that lends itself to cycling (the same cannot be said for Samarkand).

Breakdown Services

There is no national breakdown service.

Car Hire

There are very few official car hire services in the country, but you can easily hire drivers with cars via travel agencies. Car Rental Uzbekistan (www.carrental.uz) offers a range of vehicles for self-drive.

Coach

The old, battered state buses are disappearing, replaced by private buses that do not keep official schedules and leave when full.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is required for car hire.

Getting Around By Rail

There are railways linking Termez, Samarkand, Bukhara, the Fergana Valley and Nukus. There are two railway stations in Tashkent. The Trans-Caspian Railway traverses the country from Chardzhou in Turkmenistan via Kagan (near Bukhara), Samarkand and Dzhizak, where the railway branches off to serve the capital, Tashkent. Passengers should store valuables under the bed or seat, and should not leave the compartment unattended.

Regulations

No one wears a seatbelt and you are not required by law to do so. The speed limit is 60-80kph (37-50mph) in urban areas and 90kph (56mph) on highways.

Getting Around By Road

It's not advisable to drive yourself in Uzbekistan, or to drive at night even with a driver - road speeds increase, drunk driving is an issue and roads are perilous with potholes and few markings. While outside of the cities the roads are relatively quiet, in the cities the roads are disorganised and few drivers abide by the rules. Petrol stations are available but it's advisable to carry supplies in your driver’s car. Visitors wishing to travel around Termez (in the territory of the border patrol) require a permit from the National Company Uzbektourism.

Road Quality

The majority of Uzbekistan's roads are paved. Highways account for more than 90% of domestic travel, but outside of the cities they are relatively quiet.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

As with most central Asian countries, most taxis are unlicensed, so always negotiate a fare before getting in and have your destination noted in Russian or Uzbek.

Also typical of the region is the shared taxi phenomenon. At taxi ranks or bus stations, drivers will have a destination city marked on a board, or will be calling the name out. Negotiate a rate, check with others what to pay, but as a tourist you may pay more. The car only leaves when full. Try to get the front passenger seat, or a window – it can get very hot in Uzbekistan and not all cars have air conditioning.

Urban Travel

Tashkent is served by taxis, buses, trolleybuses, trams and underground. Public transport is cheap and generally reliable. There are regular bus services to all major towns in Uzbekistan.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

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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.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Uzbekistan, your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the date 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

You can visit Uzbekistan without a visa for tourism or business for up to 30 days.

If you're travelling for any other purpose, or intend to stay longer than 30 days, check the requirements with the Uzbek Embassy in the UK.

If you're entering Uzbekistan on a 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.

Border guards check the stamp on exit to make sure that travellers have not exceeded 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 travel to another city and plan to stay for longer than 3 days there, you'll need to register again.

If you're staying at a hotel, the staff will register you. If you're staying in a private house, your host should register you with their local district OVIR or on the electronic registration system, Emehmon. Tourist tax is usually included in the hotel bill, and private hosts pay the tourist tax on behalf of the guest.

If you're travelling in Uzbekistan in a camper van or staying in tents and camping, you must register yourself. Register online through the electronic registration system, Emehmon, within 3 days of arrival. When 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.

The authorities will require a full record of where you've been in Uzbekistan upon departure. If you are unable to account for your whereabouts, or fail to get registered, you could get a fine for each day that is missing or late and possibly be deported.

Uzbek-British dual nationality

If you enter Uzbekistan on an Uzbek passport and are also a British national, the British Embassy can only provide very limited assistance. Uzbekistan does not recognise dual nationality so will treat you as an Uzbek national only. If you're arrested or detained, the authorities are unlikely to grant you access to British Embassy staff.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Uzbekistan guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Uzbekistan (in Uzbek, Russian and English). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You must fill in 2 copies of the customs declaration, and make sure customs officials sign and stamp both copies. You will need to show one copy at customs as you enter Uzbekistan and the other when you leave the country.

Taking money and valuables into and out of Uzbekistan

You'll need to complete a declaration form when you arrive and keep a copy only if you are declaring:

• precious metals and gemstones in quantities over 65 grams 

• significant amounts of money, the threshold being 10,000 US dollars

Make sure customs officials sign and stamp both copies. You will need to show one copy at customs as you enter Uzbekistan and the other when you leave the country.

If you carry currency or valuables that you did not declare on arrival, there is a risk that officials may confiscate them.

You cannot leave Uzbekistan with more foreign currency than you brought with you.

Medication

Before you take any medication into Uzbekistan, check the list of prohibited medicines and restricted medicines (in Uzbek and Russian).

Bring a doctor's prescription if you travel with prescription medicines and declare them on your customs declaration form. Some non-prescription medicines in the UK cause problems on entry into Uzbekistan, including codeine. Possession can lead to civil or criminal proceedings if you have not declared them on arrival. Travellers at land borders are more likely to face problems.

Drones

The import and use of drones in Uzbekistan is largely prohibited, with some limited exceptions. You must get a licence to import drones and permission to use them before you arrive in Uzbekistan. If you import or use drones without permission, you can be fined or get a prison sentence. The authorities can also confiscate your equipment.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Uzbekistan

Attacks could be indiscriminate and happen anywhere. They could affect western interests and places visited by foreigners, such as:

• transport hubs  

• embassies  and government buildings

• religious sites and places of worship   

• sporting and cultural events   

• shopping centres and crowded places

Examples of previous attacks include:

• in 2022, rockets were fired from Afghanistan into southern Uzbekistan. Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) claimed responsibility

• in 2019, it was reported that 17 people were killed in an armed attack on a Tajik security checkpoint on the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border. Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) claimed responsibility

If you are travelling in areas where attacks have previously occurred, stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people. Use caution and maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places.

Crime

Muggings, pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common, especially in crowded places like bazaars and on public transport. Home burglaries and break-ins also happen, even in wealthier neighbourhoods.

Use caution and take measures to reduce your personal risk, such as:

• keep sight of your belongings at all times 
• be aware of thieves using distraction techniques 
• avoid carrying all your valuables together in one place e.g. handbags or pockets

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must carry your passport with you at all times. This is a legal requirement in Uzbekistan, and the police often carry out checks.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of drugs is illegal. You can get a long prison sentence if convicted. 

Prison sentences can be lengthy. While prison conditions have reportedly improved, reports of widespread hepatitis and tuberculosis as well as allegations of mistreatment of some prisoners by officials remain a concern.

Alcohol laws

It is illegal to sell alcohol and tobacco to someone aged 20 or under.    

Taking photos in secure areas

Any form of photography can upset the authorities, particularly photographs of government buildings. This includes the Palace of Forums in Tashkent and sometimes local bazaars not normally visited by tourists. While restrictions have been relaxed recently, you should check before taking photos, especially near airports, border checkpoints, military barracks, bridges, police stations and metro stations.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are illegal, not recognised and still frowned upon socially. You should refrain from showing affection in public.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Money

The currency in Uzbekistan is the Uzbek so'm (or soum/som – UZS), and is not available in currency exchanges outside Uzbekistan.  

Bring enough cash for your entire stay. US dollars are the most easily exchanged foreign currency. Only change money through official exchange booths. It is illegal to change money on the black market, and there are harsh penalties. Official exchange booths will not accept damaged or marked bank notes.  

There are very few ATMs which accept international debit and credit cards outside of the main cities. Internationally issued credit cards are not widely accepted outside Tashkent and the main cities. Travellers cheques are not normally accepted.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Uzbekistan, see information on driving abroad.

Foreign nationals can drive their own car into Uzbekistan without paying import duties and taxes for up to 90 days. After the 90 days, daily fees will be applied. You must declare the car at the point of entry. You must carry your vehicle registration document and insurance for driving in Uzbekistan.

You can drive in Uzbekistan with a valid UK driving licence for 30 days. You'll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

You should get your licence and IDP translated into either Russian or Uzbek to make interaction with local authorities and traffic police easier. This is not a legal requirement.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, minimum age and holding an IDP.

Take care as many roads have poor surfaces and bad lighting.

Uzbekistan road laws require you:

• to drive on the right
• to wear seatbelts for drivers and all passengers
• not to use a mobile phone while driving

Taxis and buses

Use licensed taxis whenever possible - this includes:

• official taxis at the airport
• taxis booked using apps like Yandex or My Taxi

Unlicensed taxis are still common, despite licensing laws. Many taxis do not have rear seatbelts, so you may want to request a taxi that has them.

Many buses and taxis in Uzbekistan run on compressed natural gas and safety regulations on these vehicles are often not followed. Where possible opt for modern vehicles.

Air travel

On 19 May 2022, the UK introduced sanctions against the Russian airlines Aeroflot, Rossiya Airlines and Ural Airlines. It is now illegal under UK law for any British national to buy flight tickets from these airlines.

Rail travel

If you must travel overnight, keep valuables in a safe place. Do not leave your belongings in the compartment unattended. Lock the door from the inside. You'll need to show your passport with a valid visa when booking train tickets.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Earthquakes

Uzbekistan is in an active seismic zone. There are regular tremors.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Uzbekistan. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border

Be cautious if travelling near the border with Afghanistan, and follow the instructions of the local authorities.

The border crossing with Afghanistan, the Friendship Bridge, remains officially closed to foreigners. See Afghanistan travel advice.

The banks of the Amudarya river, which form the border between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, are fenced off, and there is a significant Uzbek military presence within that area, known as the 'neutral zone'. You risk arrest if you approach the fence or take photos of military infrastructure or personnel in the neutral zone.

Many of the tourist sites close to the border require the permission of the local authorities to visit, or require you to be part of an organised tour group.

In April 2022, rockets were fired from Afghanistan into southern Uzbekistan. Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) claimed responsibility. See Terrorism.

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 regular storms over the Aral Sea bringing salt, dust and pollutants into the air. Try to 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. 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.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Uzbekistan

Ambulance: 103

Fire: 101

Police: 102

A new unified emergency services number, 112, was introduced in 2024 to cover all emergency calls. The previous emergency numbers are still in operation.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Uzbekistan
• dealing with a death in Uzbekistan
• being arrested or imprisoned in Uzbekistan
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X

• travel advice on Facebook

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	No
Hepatitis A	Yes
Typhoid	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	No**
Malaria	No*
Diphtheria	Yes

Overview:

While emergency health care is available free of charge for visitors it is, as in most parts of the former Soviet Union, inadequate. Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for health services. There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anaesthetics, antibiotics and vaccines. Travellers are therefore advised to take a well-equipped first-aid kit with them containing basic medicines and any prescriptions that they may need.

For minor difficulties, visitors should ask the management at their hotel for help. In case of emergency, travellers should get a referral from either the Tashkent International Medical Clinic or from the appropriate embassy, since foreigners are strongly advised not to approach local health care facilities without somebody who knows local conditions and the language.

Also, if you are travelling around the country, it is worth bringing some motion sickness pills from home as the roads are rough, bumpy and long. Supplies of sanitary products for women are non-existent in small villages so bring supplies from home; the same applies to birth control. For major problems, visitors are well advised to seek help outside the country. Travel insurance is essential.

Vaccinations Note:

*Only recommended if travelling within far southern Uzbekistan during the warmer months.

** Only for travellers spending a lot of time outdoors, or at high risk for animal bites should get be vaccinated.

Food Drink:

All water, particularly outside main centres, should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. However brucellosis, while rare in travellers, is common with locals – this is transmitted via unpasteurised dairy products. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Ask for an apoteka (pharmacist), if needed and clinics are called as polikliniks.

Other Risks:

Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes advised.

Currency Information:

Uzbek So'm (UZS; symbol лв) = 100 tiyn. Notes are in denominations of лв1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, 3 and 1. Coins are in denominations of лв100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 3 and 1 tiyn.

Credit Cards:

Credit cards are accepted in main tourist areas like Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara only, so bring enough cash with you. US dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency.

ATMs:

A few ATMs can be found in Tashkent.

For cash advances in rural areas, MasterCard users should look for Asaka Bank, while Visa and Amex holders will usually (but not always) be able to get cash advanced at National Bank of Uzbekistan. Always take your passport with you as proof of ID when requesting a cash advance.

Travellers Cheques:

Travellers' cheques are not normally accepted.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1800. Some banks open Sat 0900-1500.

Currency Restrictions:

You can import an unlimited amount of foreign currencies but you must complete a foreign currency declaration form upon arrival, which must be kept safe because you cannot leave with more foreign currency than you arrive with, unless you have a confirmation from an authorised bank.

It is very hard to exchange Uzbek So'm outside of Uzbekistan.

Currency Exchange:

Only change money through official exchange locations. It is illegal to change money on the black market, and harsh penalties will be imposed on those caught doing so. Damaged or marked bank notes will not be accepted.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
UZS	лв

Exchange Rates

3371.28

4014.80

3237.50

Language

The official language is Uzbek, a Turkic tongue closely related to Kazakh and Kyrgyz. There is a small Russian-speaking minority. Many people involved with tourism speak English. The government has stated its intention to change the Cyrillic script to the Latin.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
International Women's Day	2024-03-08 00:00:00	0
Nowruz (Persian New Year)	2024-03-20 00:00:00	0
Ramazon Hayit (End of Ramadan)	2024-04-10 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Day of Remembrance and Honour	2024-05-09 00:00:00	0
Qurbon Hayit (Feast of Sacrifice)	2024-06-16 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-09-01 00:00:00	0
Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)	2024-09-14 00:00:00	0
Constitution Day	2024-12-08 00:00:00	0

Note:

Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given below are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Ramazon Hayit (End of Ramadan), Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Some disruption may continue into Ramazon Hayit itself. Ramazon Hayit and Qurbon Hayit (Feast of Sacrifice) may last up to several days, depending on the region.

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into Uzbekistan by visitors over 16 years without incurring customs duty:

• 10 packs of tobacco products.
• 2L of alcoholic drinks.
• 3 bottles of perfume or eau de toilette.
• 65g of precious metals, precious stones or jewellery.
• Other goods up to the value of US$2,000 (if arriving by plane), US$1,000 (if arriving by train) or US$300 (if arriving by car or by foot).

.

Banned Imports:

There is an import ban for narcotics, psychotropic substances (and their precursors), explosives, detonators, and all media products that spread terrorism, violence, extremism, pornography, etc., as well as ethyl alcohol, laser devices, pyrotechnic products, drones, power-operated clutch machines, motor vehicles of classes M2, M3 and N2, and new vehicles that do not meet the requirements of the Euro-3 environmental class. It is also forbidden to import into the Republic of Uzbekistan household appliances of classes G and F and energy-saving bulkheads with a power of more than 40 watts.

Telephone:

International calls can be made from main post offices (in Tashkent on Prospekt Navoi). Direct-dial calls within the CIS are obtained by dialling 8 and waiting for another dial tone and then dialling the city code. Calls within the city limits are free of charge.

Mobile Telephone:

Mobile connections works in most parts of Uzbekistan and services are cheap. The number of mobile phone service users exceeded 19 million people by the end of 2010.

Internet:

The number of internet users was estimated at 7.55 million in March 2011. Internet cafés exist in Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva.

Post

Letters to Western Europe and the USA can take between two weeks and two months. Stamped envelopes can be bought from post offices. Addresses should be laid out in the following order: country, postcode, city, street, house number and, lastly, the person's name. There are a number of international courier services based in Tashkent.

Post Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1800.

Media:

Pre-publication press censorship has been abolished but self-censorship is widespread. A law holds media bodies accountable for the impartiality of their output, and as a result many locals depend on Russian TV and the BBC for news. Reporters Without Borders (RWB), who publish the World Press Freedom Index, placed Uzbekistan at 164th place in 2013, in between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

In August 2011, the government approved the creation of a new ‘committee of experts on information and mass communication’ that would monitor the media for news that could weaken national cultural traditions, or that could help to induce violent overthrow of the government. In addition, the government, concerned about the Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa, restricted the internet and social media in 2011. Authorities also ordered the closure of the decade-old Zerkalo XXI, one of the few independent newspapers left in the country. Foreign media have been gradually expelled since the 2005 Andijan uprising.

The main editions are published in Tashkent and include Khalk Suzi and Narodnoye Slovo (in Russian and Uzbek), Hurriyat (published by a government agency) and Uzbekistan Ovizi.

Television channels include the National Television and Radio Company, the NTT and TV-Markaz, which is national and is watched for music and entertainment. There are several radio stations, some national and some private – these include the National Television and Radio Company, Oriat FM, Uzbegim Taronasi and Radio Grande.

 

Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent

Tashkent's Chorsu ('four ways') Bazaar is a typical, but especially lively, bustling Central Asian bazaar. Covered stalls protect the piles of fruit and vegetables from the hot sun, and it is possible to barter for souvenir-friendly slippers, shawls, carpets, gowns and skull-caps just as traders and merchants have done over hundreds of years.

Tashkent

Compare old and new in Tashkent. The capital preserves only a small proportion of its architectural past. A massive earthquake in 1966 flattened much of the old city and it was rebuilt with broad, tree-lined streets. The new buildings are of little architectural interest but earlier buildings lie in the old town to the west. A myriad of narrow winding alleys, it stands in stark contrast to the more modern Tashkent. Of interest among the older buildings are the 16th-century Kukeldash Madrasa and the Kaffali-Shash Mausoleum. Many of the Islamic sites in Tashkent are not open to non-Muslims, and visitors should always ask permission before entering a mosque or any other religious building.

Samarkand

See the site of Alexander the Great's slaying of his friend Cleitos at Samarkand, the pivot of the Silk Road and the city transformed by Timur in the 14th century into one of the world's greatest capitals. Much of its past glory survives or has been restored. The centre of the historical town is the Registan Square, where three huge madrassas (Islamic seminaries) - including Shir-Dor and Tillya-Kari - built between the 15th and 17th centuries, dominate the area. Decorated with blue tiles and intricate mosaics, they give some idea of the grandeur that marked Samarkand in its heyday. The Bibi Khanym Mosque, not far from the Registan, is testimony to Timur's love for his wife. Now it is a pale shadow of its former self, having been partly destroyed in the 1897 earthquake, and seems permanently under repair. Timur himself is buried in the Gur Emir. On the ground floor, under the massive cupola, lie the ceremonial graves of Timur and his descendants. The stone that commemorates Timur is reputed to be the largest chunk of Nephrite (jade) in the world. The actual bodies are situated in the basement, which unfortunately is not open to the public.

Shah-i-Zinda

The Shah-i-Zinda is a collection of the graves of some of Samarkand's dignitaries. The oldest date from the 14th century as Samarkand was starting to recover from the depredations of the Mongol hordes of the 13th century. Its shiny restoration in 2005, remains controversial.

Observatory of Ulug Beg

Other sites of interest in Samarkand include the Observatory of Ulug Beg, Timur's grandson, which was the most advanced astronomical observatory of its day. There is also the Afrasiab Museum, not far from the observatory, containing a frieze dating from the sixth century, which shows a train of gifts for the Sogdian ruler of the day.

Bukhara

Noted by many as one of the most interesting cities in the world, Bukhara, offers the visitor more than 350 mosques and 100 religious colleges to admire. At the centre of it all, is the Shakristan (the old town), where the Ark, or palace complex of the Emirs, can be found. Close by is the 47m-high (145ft) Kalyan Minaret. Other sites of interest in Bukhara include the covered bazaars, and the Kalyan Mosque which is open to non-Muslims. This is the place to do your shopping as everything from ikat fabric to silk road spices to Soviet memorabilia can be bought.

Khiva

Khiva, northeast of Bukhara, is near to the modern and disappointingly uninteresting city of Urgench. Khiva, though, is fascinating. Completely and painstakingly preserved, the city still lies within its original walls, and has changed little since the 18th century. As a museum town it is hardly inhabited, which many visitors notice immediately, although it is possible to imagine what it was like in its prime – a place of plumed turbans and pomegranates.

Nukus Museum (Karakalpak Museum of the Arts)

View the best collection of Russian avant-garde art outside St Petersburg in Nukus, the capital of Karakalpakstan, in the west of the country. It is also home to one of the largest collections of archeological objects and folk, applied and contemporary art originating from Central Asia.

Chatkalsky Reserve

Keep an eye out for snow tigers, the rare Tian-Shan grey bear and the Berkut eagle in the Chatkalsky Reserve, a narrow unspoilt gorge in the western Tian-Shan. In the winter months trekking, skiing and snowboarding are popular and there are chairlifts, a marked sledge route, skiing equipment rental and training sessions for beginners.

Trekking

Trek in the mountains in the south of the country. There are high peaks for those wanting a challenge, while easier treks can be done in the foothills and on the plateaux. The best time to go is between March and November. There is superb hiking along the spurs and gorges of the Chatkal Range to the ancient silver mine in the Chatkal Natiore Preserve.

Kokand

Built in the early 19th century, the Juma Mosque complex is centred around a 22m- (72 ft-) minaret and includes 98 red-wood columns brought from India. The entire compound has reverted to its former Soviet guise as a museum, with one room housing a collection of suzani (textiles) and ceramics from the region. Admission includes a free tour, but only in Russian.

Ice climbing

If climbing an ice waterfall appeals, Uzbekistan offers plenty of opportunity with its many mountains, ice climbing is possible on the Gissar, Matcha and Turkestan ridges. Also, vertical rock faces for rock climbing can be found in the Fan mountains (at Bodkhana, Chapdara, Maria-Mirali and Zamok) and on the Matchi Ridge (at Aksu, Asan-Usan and Sabakh).

Skiing

The mountain resort of Beldersay, covered with snow in the winter months, and juniper and apple forests in the spring and summer, is located 80km to the southeast of Tashkent. The Beldersay route, divided into three skiing zones, is registered in the FIS (Federation of International Skiing) and has a length of 3020m (9900 ft).

Boi-Bulok Caves

Explore the deepest caves in Asia at Boi-Bulok where the depths reach 1,415m (4,641ft) in depth, and Kievskaya whose depths hit 990m (3,247ft). These are suitable for experienced cavers only. Beautiful gypsum formations can be seen at the Kugitang cave, while the caves of Baisuntau contain mummified bears and those in western Tian Shan feature underground rivers and lakes.

Cycle the Silk Road

Cycle from Tashkent via Lake Aidarkul to Khiva. Easier rides can be done in the Ferghana Valley and around Tashkent, where lake and mountain scenery can be enjoyed. Organised tours are available.

Tashkent Museums

Tashkent has many museums to explore. The eccentric State Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan is one of the most popular and aside from the Soviet masterpieces and the Uzbek art that dominates the ground and first floors, out the back is the wonderful Fidoliyar garden which is full of the graves of Bolsheviks who died in revolutionary street fighting. Elsewhere in the city there is the Museum of Applied Arts, a Literary Museum (Alisher Navoi Literary Museum) and the Art Gallery of Uzbekistan.

Overview

As the capital, it’s not surprising that Tashkent offers some of the best shopping in Uzbekistan. Boutiques and small independent shops sell the best Central Asian style carpets, skull caps, suzani and other textiles, as well as presenting the odd fashion show to encourage shoppers. At the other end of the spectrum there are the large Soviet-style malls and the traditional bazaars where most locals still shop. For travel essentials, like money belts and rucksacks these are where you’ll find range and value. Traditional rugs and clothes, silk, spices and handicrafts can also be found in the smaller bazaars of Tashkent’s Old City.

In more touristy centres, like Bukhara and Khiva, the shops around the main sights sell everything a tourist might wish to remind them of their Silk Road adventures – crockery, textiles, ikat printed cushion covers, old Soviet memorabilia, knives and spices.

Good buys include Islamic tiles, paintings, hand-stitched bedspreads and linens – beware, the cost difference between chemical and vegetable dye, and machine versus handmade is significant. Make sure you know what you are buying. Carpets are another good buy and in Bukhara, the silk weaving and carpet centres located around the late 16th-century Tim Abdulla Khan, near Taqi-Telpaq Furushon Bazaar, are a good choice. Generally workers are honest about advising whether the carpet is either handmade or machine-made. There are a couple of bookshops in Bukhara that have interesting selections of photographic books and maps about Uzbekistan. Khiva has many similar shops and stalls that line the main tourist drags and has plenty of craft centres where you can watch a traditional suzani being stitched.

Opening Hours

Food shops open 0800-1700, all others open 0900-1900.

Overview

Uzbek food is similar to that of the rest of Central Asia. During the summer and autumn, there is a wide variety of fruit: grapes, pomegranates, apricots (which are also dried and sold at other times of the year) and, dwarfing them all, mountains of honeydew and watermelons which you will see in huge piles at markets and on roadsides. Unlike other Asian cuisines, Uzbek food is not spicy and tends to be quite bland. Uzbeks pride themselves on the quality and variety of their bread, which is disk-like in shape and quite hard, and is often decorated with patterns and sometimes colours too. In general, hotel food shows a strong Russian influence, soups, cold cuts, cheeses, yogurt and meat is generally served, and unless sweet, nearly all plates will be liberally sprinkled with dill. There are a number of restaurants that serve both European and Korean food. Beer, wine, vodka, brandy and are all widely available in restaurants.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

It is usual to tip 5 to 10% in restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Restaurants in international hotels usually include service in the bill.

Drinking Age

No minimum age.

Hotels

Tourists are still required to stay in hotels that are licensed by Uzbektourism, and most hotels are run by them. However, a growing number of independent hotels are now being licensed. It is necessary for visitors to have a slip of paper stamped by the hotel to prove that they have stayed there. Most receptionists will remind you of this when you check-in but do remember to keep the slips safe.

Services and facilities are not generally up to Western standards, but efforts are being made to improve them and there is a growing number of Western-style hotels owned by foreign companies. Most tourist hotel rooms have a shower and WC ensuite, although supplies of soap and toilet paper can be unreliable. Rooms tend to be clean and will usually be decorated in the typical Central Asian style, with rugs, carpets and rich colours. Front doors and entrance gates may be locked relatively early at night so it pays to enquire what time reception closes.

All regional capitals have at least one Uzbektourism hotel that will accept foreigners. Many tourists will have booked tours which include accommodation, others will have to pay in US Dollars, unless they have special exemptions. Many large city hotels are Soviet in style, especially in the capital, so they can look very dated to western eyes and are often overpriced. Samarkand and Bukhara have the widest range of accommodation options, some with excellent views and atmosphere – often these are good value too, including breakfast and outdoor areas in which to relax.

Camping Caravaning

Uzbektourism runs a number of temporary campsites in the mountains. There are also opportunities to sleep in a traditional yurt in several locations in the country. These generally accommodate 8-10 people and many tour agencies who offer overnight stays in them also offer full-board, as well as camel rides as part of the deal.

Other

History

The territory of modern-day Uzbekistan and its close neighbours have seen many empires rise and fall. The Sogdians, the Macedonians, the Huns, the Mongolians, the Seljuks, the Timurids and the Khanates of Samarkand, Bukhara Khiva and Khorezm all held sway at one time or another.

Central Asia really came of age with the development of the Silk Road from China to the West, the most valuable trading route of its day. The riches that it brought were used to build fabulous mosques and madrassars (Islamic colleges), most of which were destroyed by the Mongol hordes in the 13th century. Much of the damage was repaired and under Timur the Lame, many new cities were built in the 14th century. Timur conquered all before him and, at its height, his empire stretched to Moscow and Baghdad and as far west as Ankara in Turkey.

After his death, the empire crumbled and Central Asia was split into warring Khanates. The Russians had long had their eyes on the lands over their southern border, ever since Peter the Great sent his first military mission to Khiva in 1717, but it was to be another 150 years before they started to make any real headway.

In 1865, Russian General Konstantin Kaufmann took Tashkent and signed agreements with the Khans. However, following the Russian Revolution, the Bolsheviks were resisted in Central Asia by bands known as Basmachi until the 1930s when they were finally suppressed and Moscow took control.

The history of Central Asia under Soviet rule is one of exploitation. Uzbekistan was turned into a cotton monoculture and most of the product was processed north of the Urals, in Russia and Ukraine. Intensive cotton cultivation in Uzbekistan has in fact been linked to the drying out of the Aral Sea, one of the biggest ecological disasters in Central Asia.

Did you know?
• Muslims constitute some 90% of Uzbekistan's population. 
• Uzbekistan has the largest armed forces in Central Asia, with some 68,000 servicemen.
• Around a third of the country's population is aged under 14.

Religion

Predominantly Sunni Muslim, with Shia (15%), Russian Orthodox and a remaining but tiny, Jewish minority (in Bukhara).

Social Conventions

Uzbekistan is a Muslim country, albeit a fairly liberal one where women often wear jeans and skirts in the cities. However, for visitors it’s best to cover up out of respect to the local culture and to avoid unwanted attention in all areas, but especially in the conservative Ferghana Valley. Minorities include Tajiks, Kazakhs, Tatars, and Karakalpaks who all contribute to the host culture with their own Central Asian customs.

In general, lipioshka (bread) should never be laid upside down and should never be put on the ground, even if it is in a bag. It is normal to remove shoes but not socks when entering someone's house or sitting down in a chai-khana.

Hospitality is genuine in Uzbekistan and many follow the saying: "The visitor is dearer than your father." While crime is rare, it’s wise to avoid ostentatious displays of wealth (eg jewellery) in public places. Homosexuality is illegal.

Photography: Photography near airports, military barracks and police stations can upset the authorities. Most people in Central Asia react well to requests for photographs, but be respectful, always ask and be aware that some older people might not be so forthcoming.

Best Time To Visit:

Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate. It is generally warmest in the south and coldest in the north. Temperatures in December average -8°C (18°F) in the north and 0°C (32°F) in the south. However, extreme fluctuations can take temperatures as low as -35°C (-31°F). During the summer months, temperatures can climb to 45°C (113°F) and above. Humidity is low. In recent years Uzbekistan has been notably affected by general global warming and the specific effects of the drying-out of the Aral Sea. This has turned snowy cold winters to mild ones with less precipitation. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn, with September being the absolute optimum month.

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Required Clothing

In the winter it can be bitterly cold so bring layers - mountain-wear works well. In the summer, it gets very hot so loose, breathable cottons are best.

Dialing Code:

+998

Area(sq km):

447400

Population:

33.469.203

Population Density(per sq km):

65

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

103