Khiva
Khiva's Itchan Kala is a walled desert city kept almost entirely intact, small enough to walk in a couple of hours and best at dawn and dusk when the mud walls turn orange. A single ticket covers most monuments inside the walls. It is the most remote of the three main Silk Road cities and the most atmospheric at night.
How long to stay
April to May and September to October; summer exceeds 45°C.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Khiva yet
Is Khiva right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Khiva is known for.
Great for
- History & culture
- Couples
Less of a focus
- Food
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
- Solo
Build your Khiva trip
Top things to do
Itchan Kala
Entrance UZS 150,000 · VerifiedKhiva
The walled inner city of Khiva, a UNESCO site of madrasas, minarets and mud-brick walls kept as a single ensemble.
Kalta Minor minaret
Free entry · Paid extras availableKhiva
A wide, unfinished minaret covered in turquoise glazed tile, the visual signature of Khiva.
Run a restaurant, café or tour in Khiva? List your business.
Popular activities
Khiva walls at sunset
Walk the city walls as the mud brick turns colour.
Kyzylkum desert yurt night
Overnight in a yurt camp between Khiva and Bukhara with a visit to the Ayaz Kala fortresses.