Uzbekistan is often regarded as the cradle of culture in Asia for more than 2 million years. It has a mind blowing collection of architecture and artifacts. This Central Asian country is known for the fine Islamic tile work, turquoise domes and minarets. You can get fine examples of fine architecture in the ancient city of Khiva and in the old towns of Bukhara and Samarkand. In fact, Samarkand is also known as the ‘Rome of the Orient’. The Ferghana Valley still produces high quality silk and the landscape is full of cotton fields and mulberry trees.
Passport and visa
To enter Uzbekistan a passport which is valid for the entire duration of the stay is required by the nationals of all countries. US, UK and Canadian passport holders also require visa to enter the country along with evidence of return ticket. For hassle free Uzbek visa application, citizens of US, UK and Canada can apply to visa center in their respective countries. Visa processing may take some extended time, so apply in advance.
Things to see and do
The first place that you should visit in the country is Bukhara which was a renowned center of learning. There are more than 350 mosques and 100 religious colleges here. The Ark or the palace of the Emirs is located in the center of the city though much of it was ravaged by a fire. The Zindan or the Jail of the Emirs is near the gate. The Kalyan Mosque is open to non-Muslims and the Ishmael Samani Mausoleum is the only surviving structure of the Mongol period.
Caves
You can explore the deepest caves in Asia at Boi-Bulok and Kievskaya. However, only experienced cavers should enter these.
Chatkalsky Reserve
This is a narrow unspoilt gorge which is famous for the sightings of snow tigers, the rare grey bear and the Berkut eagle.
Khiva
Khiva is actually younger and better maintained than Samarkand and Bukhara. The city has changed very little from the 18th century. It has been turned into a museum town and is sparsely inhabited. Once you enter the city walls, it is not hard to imagine what the city would have been like in its prime time.
Samarkand
Much of the past glory of this beautiful city has been restored. There are three huge madrassas in the center of the town which are decorated with blue tiles and intricate mosaics. The Bibi Khanym Mosque was partly destroyed in the earthquake and is under repair.
Shopping and nightlife
You cannot experience Central Asia if you have not been to the bazaars. The bazaars of Tashkent and Samarkand have high quality goods like Central Asian carpets, herbs and spices. You can get decorated Uzbek knives in Tashkent. Silk is still produced in the country and you can get silk items in the large departmental stores.
Tashkent has European theaters and Uzbek is famous for dancing and music. As a theater Navoi is very popular and opera and ballet are its highlights. These places are quite economic and you will also find a number of Western-styled bars and restaurants.