Location: Khiva
Top Things to do in Khiva
Top 10 Things to do in Khiva, Xorazm Province
Khiva (Uzbek: Xiva/Хива, خىۋا; Persian: خیوه, Xīveh; alternative or historical names include Khorasam, Khoresm, Khwarezm, Khwarizm, Khwarazm, Chorezm, and Persian: خوارزم) is a city of approximately 50,000 people located in Xorazm Region, Uzbekistan. According to archaeological data, the city was established in the beginning of the Christian era. It is the former capital of Khwarezmia and the Khanate of Khiva. Itchan Kala in Khiva was the first site in Uzbekistan to be inscribed in the World Heritage List (1991). The world renowned astronomer, historian and polymath, Al-Biruni (973-1048CE) was among several Muslim scholars born here.
Restaurants in Khiva
1. Itchan Kala
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 560 reviews
The ancient town has many undamaged monuments such as the Djuma Mosque.
Reviewed By PandaHouston - Houston, United States
Itchan Kala is the name given to the area inside the Khiva fort walls. We paid 150000 som for the VIP ticket which allows for 2 days of entry. There are different tickets and the VIP ticket cost the most which allows you go climb the minaret and the watchtower. The tickets are good for entry into museums and palaces and mosques. Some of the museums are not really worthwhile. This entire area is free of cars. There are souvenir stalls set up along the side of the pedestrian road. We spent 2 nights in Khiva and really enjoyed it at a relaxed pace. You can also walk along the wall. There is a steep ramp at the North Gate Entrance.
2. Citadel Kunya-ark
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 223 reviews
Arang-khan began the construction of this citadel complex in 1686, which contains a house for khan, the members of his family and dignitaries.
Reviewed By PandaHouston - Houston, United States
Entry to Kunya Ark is included in the ticket price. There are 3 pretty impressive courtyards with blue tiles. If you want to go to the watchtower, you will need the VIP ticket which is 150000 som per person. We came up at around 5:30 pm to watch the sunset and there a lot of people.
3. Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 216 reviews
This mausoleum is of the 14th-century poet and sage Pakhlavan Makhmud, who was proclaimed a Muslim saint since he belonged to the Kungrad Dynasty.
Reviewed By Vukojebinje - London, United Kingdom
I’d say that this is very much a must-see place in Khiva. From the outside, the mosque is beautiful enough (particularly with its green dome). It’s inside, however, that this site is particularly interesting. Stepping inside the mosque you get a real sense of reverence, and it’s fascinating to be able to see the series of tombs inside and to sit a moment beneath the main dome in contemplation. You have to pay extra to enter the mausoleum even if you have the pass that allows you to access all of the attractions in Khiva, but I’d certainly say it’s worth it.
4. Friday Mosque (Juma Mosque)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 466 reviews
Reviewed By Rose-Gul - Bucharest, Romania
this open air ancient mosque with its 213 beautiful carved wooden pillars will amaze you with its unique architecture. Have a look inside and notice how different the many pillars are carved.
5. Stone Palace (Tash Khauli)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 174 reviews
This 19th-century palace was the residence of the ruler of Khiva, Allah Kuli Khan.
Reviewed By PandaHouston - Houston, United States
Entrance is covered when you buy a ticket. We bought the VIP ticket for 150000 som. There are a couple of rooms with beautiful blue tile. There is also a yurt on display in the courtyard of one of the rooms. This palace is where the Khan used to live with his wives and concubines. There are a lot of smaller rooms you can go into and explore.
6. Mohammed Amin Madrassah
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 296 reviews
Reviewed By chrisconway201 - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
The Madrasah was built in 1851-1854 by the order of Khiva ruler Muhammad Amin-Khan and was named after him. The building of the Madrasah of Muhammed Amin-Khan has five domes and flank towers. The facade is decorated with rich glazed bricks and wooden doors with ornamental carving. Madrassah of Muhammed Amin-Khan is one of the main sights
7. Islam Khodja Complex
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By Vukojebinje - London, United Kingdom
The Islam Khodja Complex is certainly worth a look inside - the museum is interesting and informative, and an excellent way to access the history of Khiva. But, for me, the minaret is certainly one of the must-see sites in Khiva. It’s a climb, but you’ll get better views from the top than anywhere in the city and you certainly won’t regret it. This was one of the best parts of our trip to Khiva.
8. Kalta Minor Minaret
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 120 reviews
Reviewed By Vukojebinje - London, United Kingdom
For me, the minaret was Khiva. I’ve never seen anything like this, and it simply commands your attention from wherever you might be. The colours are stunning and the sheer size of it is surprising, and I don’t think that you can come to Khiva without seeing it many times. For me, this alone made the trip out to Khiva worth it. It’s a real shame that you can’t go inside - I understand that you haven’t been able to for decades.
