Khorezm

• Ichan-Kala is the inner fortress of Khiva and has a history spanning more than two thousand years.
• Xorazm National Nature Park includes dense tugai forest along the banks of the Amu Darya.
• Shivit Oshi and Tukhum Barak are two traditional dishes from Xorazm.
• Other notable places in the region include Ulli-Hovli and the Qalajiqqal’a archaeological complex.

Ichan-Kala offers a vivid impression of Khiva’s historic architecture: the fortress contains 51 ancient monumental buildings and 250 houses. The Juma Mosque is adorned with 212 columns.

The Nurullabay Palace stands in the northwestern part of Ichan-Kala. It consists of four courtyards. The restored complex includes nine large and small rooms, a reception room, an archive, a madrasa, rooms for servants and guards, as well as a garden and flower beds. Its design embodies traditional features of Xorazm’s national residential architecture.

Historical sites from different periods can also be found beyond this ensemble. Ulli-Hovli was built by Uzbeks and Turkmens in the 17th century. Archaeological finds and cultural layers of soil suggest that Sulaymonqala is at least 2,700 to 2,800 years old. The Qalajiqqal’a archaeological complex includes a fortress dating back about 3,000 years.

Dense tugai forest lines the banks of the Amu Darya in Xorazm National Nature Park. The park is also home to Uch Uchok, a geological and historical site formed by the impact of a large meteorite. Ecotourism routes have been opened in four directions, passing historical and natural attractions in the Xorazm region. This makes it possible to explore the nature park along its designated routes and discover its landscapes and historical sites.

Ulli Shorkul, also known as the “Khorezm Sea,” offers a different kind of landscape: located in Yangiarik District, it is a recreation area with a body of water. Khorezm brings together historical sites, tugai landscapes and a waterside recreation area.

At Ulli-Hovli Fortress, visitors can ride camels and horses, and stroll through craft workshops and a gallery. Visits combine activities and handicrafts, while the site’s architectural history offers a distinct cultural connection.

The cuisine also features distinctive regional dishes. Shivit Oshi consists of bright green noodles made with dill infusion and served with meat sauce and a tangy fermented milk topping. Tukhum Barak is a traditional Xorazm dumpling filled with an egg-based mixture. Those keen to explore regional cuisine can try two very different preparations: noodles with several accompaniments and stuffed dough.

The Qalajiqqal’a complex also includes a salt lake believed to have healing properties and the Qalajiq health center on the site. A three-day travel itinerary includes Kalajik Castle in Bagat District on the third day.

For a closer look at places within Khorezm, explore the pages for Khiva District and Urgench. If you’d like to compare Khorezm with other destinations, you can also find information on Tashkent, Navoiy Province, Andijan Province, Republic of Karakalpakstan, Bukhara and Jizzakh Province.

How old is Ichan-Kala?

The inner fortress of Khiva has a history spanning more than two thousand years.

What is special about the Juma Mosque?

The mosque in Ichan-Kala is adorned with 212 columns.

What activities are available at Ulli-Hovli?

Visitors can ride camels and horses there, and stroll through craft workshops and a gallery.

Which regional dishes can you try?

Traditional dishes from Xorazm include Shivit Oshi, green noodles with meat sauce and a tangy fermented milk topping, and Tukhum Barak, a dumpling filled with an egg-based mixture.

For the main travel overview: Uzbekistan.