Khiva

Khiva, located in western Uzbekistan, is one of the most strikingly preserved ancient cities along the Silk Road. Its UNESCO-listed old town, Itchan Kala, is a walled labyrinth of madrasahs, mosques, minarets, and caravanserais that transport visitors into a different era. Climbing the Islam Khodja minaret rewards you with panoramic views across a cityscape of turquoise domes and sand-coloured walls. The Kunya-Ark Citadel, Tash Khauli Palace and Juma Mosque all reflect Khiva’s former role as a cultural and political hub of the Khorezm region. With limited modern development inside the city walls, the atmosphere remains immersive and authentic.

Culturally, Khiva pulses with stories of ancient dynasties, poets, and scholars. Local artisans continue to practise centuries-old skills such as wood carving, silk weaving, and ceramic design — and their workshops are open for visitors to explore. Performances of traditional music and dance are often staged in the courtyards of historic buildings, where the sounds of long-necked dutars and rhythmic clapping echo through the stone passageways. Festivals such as the Khiva International Music Festival celebrate the city’s artistic depth and cross-cultural roots.

Khivan cuisine is grounded in regional ingredients and slow-cooked flavours. Dishes like shivit oshi (green dill-infused noodles), lamb stews, and pumpkin-stuffed samsa are distinctive to this part of Uzbekistan. Meals are typically shared in open courtyards or cosy family-run guesthouses, often accompanied by green tea or locally made compotes. While Khiva’s compact size means the focus is less on nightlife or contemporary entertainment, it’s ideal for slowing down, browsing for handmade souvenirs, or enjoying the peaceful rhythm of a desert city that once hosted traders from across the world.