Bukhara , Uzbekistan

Bukhara Walking Tour

Active

(4 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The dome of Islam! The Holy city!
Not without reason was said that, Samarkand is the "Pearl of the East" and Bukhara is the "Pillar of Islam".

Description:
- Lyabi Hauz complex: Nadir Devanbegi medrese and xanaka, Kukaldosh medrese
- Jewish quarter
- Magoki Attor mosque (first mosque in Uzbekistan, pre-mongol period monument)
- Trading Domes (3 domes)
- Traditional Mens Bath XVI th century (only reception)
- Ulughbek medrese (most ancient medrese in Uzbekistan)
- Abdulazizkhan medrese (the most luxurious medrese)
- Poi Kalan complex:
- Minaret Kalan - pre mongol monument
- Kalan mosque - the biggest in this city
- Miri Arab medrese - current medrese for males
- Ark Citadel
- Boloi Hauz mosque
- Chashmai Ayub mausoleum
- Samanid mausoleum (first mausoleum in Central Asia and second in Islamic World, pre-mongol monument)
- Along the way we have the opportunity to see the only place in Uzbekistan where you can get acquainted with the history of Central Asian Puppets and Puppet Theater.

Available options

Bukhara Walking Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Professional guide (en, es, fr, de, ru)

Detailed itinerary

The center of social life of Bukhara which is intensively animated in the evening and where you can see monuments as:
- Kukeldash madrasah
- Nadir Divanbegi madrassah
- Hanaka (dwelling) for dervishes

The only place in Uzbekistan where you can get acquainted with the history of Central Asian puppet theater.
In addition you can watch a 2 minute show from the master himself
and most importantly if luck smiles here you can find some puppet that will be exactly like you

The first mosque is not only the city but the whole of Uzbekistan.
Before the Islam was a place where pagans used to sell idols.

The oldest madrasa in Bukhara and the only monument of the Timurid period in the city

The most magnificent madrassah of Bukhara and the first monument where had began to use the yellow color

Poi Kalyan complex consisting of three monuments as:
- Kalon minaret - the highest minaret of the city and one of the three monuments of the pre-Mongol invasion
- Kalon mosque - the medieval largest mosque of the city was restored in the 16th century after the Mongol destruction
- Mir Arab madrassah is the only higher spiritual educational institution that has never ceased to function since the founding of the former Soviet Union, to this days boys studying here

The winter residence of the Bukhara emirs, called Ark was considered a "city within the city".

The mosque which has the highest columns in the city.
Also called as Chilustun (40 columns) although only has 20 columns but on the reservoir when reflected you can see something else

The water supply Museum of the city of Bukhara at the same time the mausoleum of "St. Jehovah".

The first mausoleum of Central Asia.
The second mausoleum of the Islamic world.
Mausoleum of the founder of the first local Emperor of Central Asia

What's not included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance to monuments specified in the program

Lunch

Other and personal expenses not specified in the program

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will find you near the statue "Man on donkey"

About Bukhara

Bukhara is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in Central Asia, renowned for its rich history, stunning Islamic architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. This ancient Silk Road city offers a unique glimpse into Uzbekistan's past, with over 140 architectural monuments dating back over a millennium.

Top Attractions

Po-i-Kalyan Complex

The Po-i-Kalyan Complex is the heart of Bukhara's historic center, featuring the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and Mir-i Arab Madrasah. This UNESCO-listed site is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Ark of Bukhara

The Ark of Bukhara is a massive fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara's rulers for centuries. It houses museums and historic buildings within its walls.

Historical 1 hour 5,000 UZS

Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble

The Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble is a picturesque complex centered around a large pond (hauz) and surrounded by madrasahs, mosques, and tea houses. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum

This mausoleum is said to be built around a spring that appeared miraculously when the prophet Job (Ayub) touched the ground with his staff. It's a peaceful spot with beautiful tile work.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Trade Domes

Bukhara's trade domes, such as the Toki Zargaron (Jewelers' Dome), Toki Telpak Furushon (Hatsellers' Dome), and Toki Sarrofon (Money Changers' Dome), are a testament to the city's rich trading history. These domes once housed bustling markets and still retain their historic charm.

Historical/Cultural 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices, often served at celebrations and gatherings

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Lagman

A hearty noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth

Main Dish Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Samsa

Baked pastries filled with meat, pumpkin, or potatoes

Snack Varies by filling, often contains meat

Shurpa

A flavorful soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices

Soup Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without meat

Popular Activities

Camel trekking Sandboarding Hiking Tea house visits Spas and hammams Reading in parks Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historic sites. The temperatures are comfortable, and the crowds are manageable.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Uzbek
Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bukhara is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators
• Negotiate taxi fares in advance
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Bukhara International Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Bukhara Railway Station

By bus

Bukhara Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Bukhara. They are affordable and connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center Modern Bukhara

Day trips

Vobkent

30 km from Bukhara • Half day to full day

Vobkent is a small town known for its historic mosque and mausoleum, offering a glimpse into the region's Islamic heritage.

Gijduvan

40 km from Bukhara • Full day

Gijduvan is famous for its ceramics and traditional pottery workshops, offering a hands-on experience in this ancient craft.

Kyzylkum Desert

100 km from Bukhara • Overnight

The Kyzylkum Desert offers a unique desert experience with opportunities for camel trekking, stargazing, and exploring the vast sand dunes.

Festivals

International Festival of Classical Music • September Siyavushbek Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Po-i-Kalyan Complex early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
Try the local plov at a traditional chaikhana for an authentic experience
Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars, as prices are often inflated for tourists
Carry small change for bus rides, taxis, and small purchases
Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your interactions with locals