You are in the Heart of Khiva

Khiva is a true open-air museum, where time seems to have stood still among madrasahs, minarets, and narrow alleyways scented with clay and spices. Every brick whispers a legend, and the sunset reflects in the domes like golden mirrors. To lose yourself in Ichan-Kala is to journey through the centuries. Follow our guide – and Khiva will reveal its full magic and beauty.

What to do?

1. Discover traditional lifestyle, tools, and crafts at the Handicraft Museum in the Matpanabay Madrasah building.

2. Explore the inner city – the Ichan-Kala Citadel – and admire its evening illumination.

3. Visit the Kunya-Ark Fortress, a “city within a city” in the heart of Ichan-Kala.

4. Take photos of Khiva’s iconic sights: the Kalta-Minor Minaret (“short minaret”) and the tallest one – Islam Khodja Minaret, over 56 meters high.

5. See the Pahlavan Mahmud Complex, the mausoleum of Khivan khans.

6. Visit the mausoleum of scholar Said Alauddin, climb the stairs, and enjoy the view of the old city.

7. Admire the grandeur of the Tash-Khauli Palace, residence of Khivan rulers.

8. Count over 200 carved wooden columns in the unique Juma Mosque.

9. See the madrasahs of Muhammad Amin Khan, Muhammad Rahim Khan, Allakuli Khan, and one of the oldest in Khiva – Khoja Berdibai.

10. Walk along Khiva’s fortress wall at sunset.

11. Shop for handmade goods at the old eastern bazaar near the Palvan-Darvaza gate.

12. Visit the silk carpet and suzani workshop – Khiva Silk Workshop.

13. Stay in one of the authentic hotels in the old town.

14. Attend a performance of the Khiva Puppet Theater.

What to taste

- Khorezm-style plov, Suzma Osh;

- Gumma – deep-fried pastries with cheese and herbs or meat;

- Shivit Oshi – dill-infused noodles with savory sauce;

- Tukhum Barak – dumplings filled with egg and milk.

TOP 4 souvenirs

- Ceramics in the traditional Khorezm color palette – blue, light blue, and white;

- A locally made carpet;

- Hand-carved wooden items;

- A traditional chogirma headdress.