Top Things to do in Bukhara Province
The 10 Best Points of Interest & Landmarks in Bukhara Province, Bukhara Province
Discover the best top things to do in Bukhara Province, Uzbekistan including Volidai Abdulaziz Khan Mosque, Samanid Mausoleum, Lyab-i-Hauz, Chor-Minor, Moschea Bolo-khauz, Trading Domes, Kosh Madrasah, Centre Culturel Isteza, Mausoleum of Saif Ed-Din Bokharzi, Emir Alim Khan Madrasah.
Restaurants in Bukhara Province
1. Volidai Abdulaziz Khan Mosque
2. Samanid Mausoleum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 468 reviews
Reviewed By andrewmU2655XD
The Ismail Samanid Mausoleum is the centerpiece of an old Soviet Park. The Park area used to be a cemetery, but the Soviet invasion of 1920 caused major damage and the park was a result of the restoration. The Samanid park is easily reached by walking south on Afrosiab Street, then west through the old memory park entrance. The Shakhrud Canal runs through the park from the old city, and can be followed to the mausoleum. The tomb is the oldest in Central Asia, and the oldest structure in Uzbekistan, as it was constructed between 892-943, and housed the remains of rulers of the Samanid dynasty. It is named after Ismail Samani who ruled between 892-907, and was the dynasty's most famous ruler. The tomb is a simple but unique design. The main feature is the gallery of ten arches at the top of the tomb, which is repeated on each side. There are beautifully decorated columns at each corner and these extend to small domes at the top surrounding the central dome. At the top of the dome is a small arched structure which can only be seen from distance. We arrived in late afternoon, so were unable to access the interior. It was rare for muslim leaders to have tombs built in their honour before the 11th century, so this is one of the earliest examples of a muslim tomb. Ismael lived between 849-907, and was famous for his success in battles in Afghanistan and Iran, and spreading the muslim faith. The tomb survived the mongol invasion of 1220, as it was buried in mud from flooding. A Soviet archaeologist, V. Shishkin, discovered the tomb in the 1930's which had three bodies inside. It was restored and made the centerpiece of the park. We had visited Tajikistan, where Ismael is a national hero, and seen many statues dedicated to him. The Tajik currency is also named in his honour. We had also visited the famous Tomb of Sultan Sanjar (of the Seljuq Dynasty) in Merv, Turkmemistan which was built over 200 years later, but is said to have been inspired by this tomb. Other attractions in the park include the ferris wheel, lake with f&b and watersports activities, zoo, memorial complex of Imom Al Bukhari and talipach gate.
3. Lyab-i-Hauz
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 437 reviews
Reviewed By yns_10 - Sydney, Australia
Lyabi Khan ensemble consists of the Kukeldash Madrasah, khanaka and the Nodir Divan-begi. The centre became a large reservoir in the 17th century. This central area is busy with shops, restaurants and cafes.
4. Chor-Minor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 556 reviews
Reviewed By rezasattarzadeh - Muscat, Oman
I came across Chor Minor when I was walking in the old neighborhood of Bukhar. The name literally means four minarets and it dates back to the time that Bukhara was a part of the Persian empire. The structure is very interesting and eye-pleasingly beautiful. The four minarets are accessible through a very narrow staircase for a nominal fee. Great photo opportunities on the top.
5. Moschea Bolo-khauz
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 272 reviews
Reviewed By nijifrank
Beautiful building, although the inside is much smaller than you'd expect from the outside. Nonetheless this is a gorgeous building and well worth the visit. Take off your shoes and sit inside for a while, and enjoy the architecture. The Imam is friendly and will chat if you know a bit of Russian.
6. Trading Domes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 178 reviews
Reviewed By Redbackspider
The Trading Domes are a wonderful sight, particularly against a blue sky. There are a cluster of domes, with some grander than others. From the inside, the domes are amazing when the light streams through the portals. It was quiet with few tourists during my visit, so it was nice to wander around and have a good look.
7. Kosh Madrasah
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By Lance_Kerwin - Tromso, Norway
This architectural complex Kosh Madrasah was built during the reign of Abdulla-khan the 2nd. Consisting of two cross-placed madrasahs. The first one is Modari-khan madrasah, built in 1567 in honor of Abdulla-khan's former mother. The second building carries the name of Abdulla-khan and was built in 1588-1590. The buildings stands in front of each other on different sides of a narrow street.
