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The capital city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent is the go-to destination for those who savour ancient culture, historical wonders, natural charm and peaceful corridors. This cosmopolitan centre has a substantial share of all these marvels and hence, tourists have started giving it the attention it deserves. Travellers, explorers document its great Islamic architecture and admire the artistic alleys it nurtures in the lap of modernism. The city has infotainment complexes for families, romantic places for couples and hidden corners for off trackers. Unravel the most interesting things to do when in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Top Things To Do In Tashkent, Uzbekistan
1. Watch the Shining Minor Mosque
Featuring an ever-shining turquoise dome, characterised by modern architectural attributes, the Minor Mosque is one of the most visited Tashkent tourist places. It is made up of pure white marbles and is an amazing instance of modern Islamic architecture in the city. With its towering minarets against the beautiful backdrop of the sky, it is one of the most beautiful and picture-perfect places to visit in Tashkent. Gaze at its immaculate structure and find yourself in awe. Do visit and explore its beautiful prayer hall and other parts of the complex.
Recommended For: Architecture Enthusiasts, Photographers
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Pro Tip: If you are looking to photograph the mosque, then capture it from the riverside at the time of sunset.
2. Fall in Love with the Chaos of Chorsu Market
How about a bit of shopping along with a local experience in Tashkent? Chorsu Market, one of Tashkent’s famous places, lies under a beautiful blue-domed building and is a traditional marketplace where you would often find people purchasing different types of meat. However, over a period of time, the market has gained an important cultural status amongst tourists. Today, it has bread sellers, spice vendors and a number of other shopkeepers selling daily-life necessities. Tourists come from around the world to lose themselves in the liveliness of this vibrant place, surely one of the must things to do in Tashkent at night.
Recommended For: Shoppers, Culture Explorers, Photographers
Entry Fee: No entrance fee
Timings: 05:00 am to 08:15 pm
(05:00 am to 09:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays)
Pro Tip: Avoid buying things at the entrance as you would find the same items at a cheaper cost inside the market.
3. Relish the Tasty Plov
It would be a sin to leave the boundaries of Tashkent without giving your taste buds the real taste of Plov. Also called, Pilaf or Pilau, this rice delicacy is the national dish of Uzbekistan. Though it has a number of flavours and is savoured across the world, Uzbek Plov is often considered the best in Central Asia. It is a traditional recipe in the country and has broth, meat, spices, dried fruits and vegetables as main ingredients. Is your mouth watering already?
Recommended For: Foodies, Food Vloggers
Average Cost: $3-$4 at an above-average restaurant
Pro Tip: Try it with a cup of tea and side salads.
4. Kayak the Ankhor Canal
Not many tourists who visit Uzbekistan prefer exploring the city’s beauty this way. But if you are someone who gets fascinated by offbeat activities, then this is definitely for you. Ankhor Canal, one of the off-beat Tashkent tourist attractions, runs for more than 20 km through Tashkent and is an idyllic place for kayaking. Undoubtedly, it is a brand new way to relish the great views of the city. Paddle across soothing waters and make your way through the heart of Tashkent. Witness greenery, beautiful shades, buildings and more on both sides as you move across the canal.
Recommended For: Couples, Photographers
Average Cost: $20 per kayak
Ideal Timings: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm
5. Visit the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
If you are an avid history lover or have a great interest in the cultural aspects of a place, then the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan is a must-visit place in Tashkent. It is also one of the oldest museums in the country since it was established in the year 1876. And now that’s quite old. The museum houses artefacts showcasing the rich history and culture of the country. From Buddha reliefs to Stone Age relics, there is a lot to lay your eyes upon. The museum also covers the numismatics and ethnography of the country.
Recommended For: History Lovers
Entry fee: $1.60 per person
Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
6. Have a Great Time at Beautiful Parks and Gardens
How about a break amid the lush green lawns? If you are in for it, then head towards the gorgeous parks of Tashkent. The city has a number of gardens and parks where one can enjoy their lazy afternoons and evenings. Or take morning walks and feel fresh air rejuvenate your soul. You can also bring your kids along and have some fun time with them. The major parks in Tashkent include Botanical Gardens, Japanese Garden, Central Park, Ankhor Park and more.
Recommended For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers
Entry Fee: No entrance fee for majority of public parks
However, $2 for Japanese Garden and in between $0.20 – $0.50 for other popular gardens
Ideal Timings: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm
7. Learn about the Warlord at Amir Timur Museum
Another significant museum in Tashkent that provides serious insights into the history and culture of the country! Amir Timur Museum was established in the year 1996 and is known for its special collection related to the Mongol King Amir Timur. However, the museum also exhibits in reference to the cultural evolution of Uzbekistan. The major artefacts here include displays on the kingdom of Amir Timur, ancient maps, weapons, manuscripts, pottery, jewellery and coins.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Explorers
Entry Fee: $0.50 per person
Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Pro Tip: If possible, hire a guide. They would explain each and every part of the museum along with the country’s history in detail.
8. Explore the Extensive Khazrati Imam Complex
Khazrati Imam Complex is a testament to the glorious past of Tashkent and is one of the most noted sites in the city. Its wonderfully-built structure characterised by great designs and intricate patterns says it all. Notice the great architecture of the amazing marvel and capture its historical corners. The complexe houses a number of buildings including Barah-Khan Madrasah, Khazrati Imam Mosque, the New Al-Bukhari Islamic University and more. So, do not miss it.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts
Entry fee: No entrance fee
Ideal Timings: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: Do visit the Moyie Mubarak Library in the complex for a minimum fee of about $1.60 per person. The library has thousands of books and manuscripts including the great Quran from the 6th century!
9. Shop for Crafts at the Broadway Street
One of the unique things to do in Tashkent is exploring the Broadway Street. This beautiful place in the city is every craft-lover’s stop. Shop for wonderful paintings or enjoy the exhibit of great artworks. The place lets you understand Uzbekistan craftsmanship from close quarters. Take a stroll through the streets lines with colourful arts and treat your eyes with amazing masterpieces. You can also ask the artists here to make paintings as per your choices. The place also has great restaurants and cafes.
Recommended For: Art Lovers, Explorers
Entry Fee: None
Ideal Timings: 06:00 am to 09:00 pm
Pro Tip: There are several game booths here and hence, you can bring along your kids too.
10. Visit the Museum of Applied Arts
An art museum established in the year 1937 that offers a wide variety of artworks, ranging from wood carving to ceramics and embroidery to gold weaving, the Museum of Applied Arts is dedicated to the decorative art of the country and its brief history and hence, it is the perfect Tashkent sightseeing spot for those who have a strong interest in art exhibitions. Take a look at the great works here and confront the kind of talent the country has produced. It is one of the best places to visit in Tashkent for explorers.
Recommended For: Art Lovers, Culture Explorers
Entry Fee: $2 per adult
Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: Do check out the wall tiling designs here as they are simply outstanding.
Also Explore: 10 Fun and Offbeat Things To Do In Uzbekistan
