Bukhara

If Samarkand is about grandeur, Bukhara is about atmosphere. The old city is a labyrinth of mud-brick lanes, carved wooden doors, ancient caravanserais, and domed trading bazaars. Time moves differently here.

At its peak Bukhara had over 100 madrasahs and was known as the “City of Scholars.” Walking its streets at night, when the tourists have gone, is one of the most memorable experiences Uzbekistan offers.

Key Sites

• The Ark Fortress — the ancient citadel, inhabited for over 1,500 years
• Kalon Minaret — the great tower that even Genghis Khan reportedly spared
• Kalon Mosque — one of the largest in Central Asia
• Lyabi-Hauz — the pool and square at the heart of the old city
• Chor Minor — the four-towered madrasah hidden in the residential quarter
• Trading Domes — the covered bazaars of the Silk Road
• Zindan Prison Museum — where foreign hostages were held in the 19th century