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Bukhara is an ancient city in Uzbekistan that was a part of the Silk Road. Its culture and architecture reflect the immense wealth and exposure to different cultures it experienced for hundreds of years. Today, there are plenty of things to see and do in Bukhara. In this guide, we will discuss the top attractions in Bukhara, how to get there, and where to stay.
Table of Contents
Where is Bukhara?
Bukhara is located in central Uzbekistan, near the border of Turkmenistan. It is about 300 km west of Samarkand.
How to Get to Bukhara
There are several ways to get to Bukhara.
By Air
By Train
If you’re traveling within Uzbekistan or from neighboring countries, you should consider taking a train to Bukhara Railway Station. Bukhara is well-connected by train to major cities in Uzbekistan like Tashkent and Samarkand.
Seats fill up quickly, so be sure to book your tickets in advance!
By Bus
If you are traveling within Uzbekistan, it is possible to take a bus to Bukhara. However, the train system is so convenient, that I would only recommend taking a bus if you are in a small town not connected by the railway.
Top Things to See and Do in Bukhara
Bukhara is often overshadowed by Samarkand, but it is a destination that is certainly worth the visit! There are plenty of things to see and do in Bukhara. Whether you stay for just a day or two, or decide to spend a whole week here, you will never cease to be amazed by the incredible architecture and rich culture of the city.
Here are the top things to see and do in Bukhara:
Kalon Mosque
My favorite thing to see in Bukhara was the Kalon Mosque. This ornate mosque was built in 1514 and is a great example of Islamic architecture. Outside the mosque is a large minaret that can be seen from blocks away.
Once you step inside the courtyard of the mosque, you will be amazed by the intricacy of the blue and turquoise tilework. The prayer hall is also elegantly decorated. As you look from the prayer hall toward the entrance of the mosque, you will enjoy one of the best views of Bukhara.
Kalon Mosque Entry Fee
There is an entrance fee for Kalon Mosque. Although locals can enter for free, foreigners must pay about 15,000 UZS ($1.25 USD in 2023. See current rates here).
Mir-i-Arab Madrasah
Located right across from Kalon Mosque is the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah. This is an impressive building reminiscent of Registan Square in Samarkand. It is currently undergoing repairs and is not open, but it is nice to look at from the outside.
Ark of Bukhara
One of the most impressive buildings in Bukhara is the Ark of Bukhara. This is a giant fortress, built in the 5th century, that once protected royal courts that made decisions affecting the region. Today, there are several museums housed within its walls.
If you are very interested in history, then it is worth entering the Ark of Bukhara. If not, the view of the outside of the fortress will probably be enough.
Ark of Bukhara Entry Fee
The entry fee for the Ark of Bukhara is 60,000 UZS ($5 USD in 2023. See current rates here) for foreigners. There are additional costs for an audioguide, taking photos, etc.
Bolo Hauz Mosque
Located down the street from the Ark of Bukhara, the Bolo Hauz Mosque is another one of my favorite things to see in Bukhara. This mosque is famous for both tourists and religious pilgrims. It was built with large wooden pillars that hold up its elegantly adorned roof.
This was a nice place to sit and admire its architecture. There is also plenty of shade here to provide relief from a hot day.
Magoki Attori
The Magoki Attori is the oldest mosque, and one of the oldest buildings, in Bukhara. Built in the 9th century, the Magoki Attori stands as a testament to the religious switch in the region from Zoroastrianism to Islam. The exterior has been partially repaired, showcasing blue and turquoise tiles near the entrance.
Inside, there is a (very) small museum. There was an entry fee to get in, but there was nobody working there for us to pay.
Ancient Bath Ruins
Next to the Magoki Attori are the ancient bath ruins. These baths were built in the 10th century, and showcase both Islamic and Persian influences. Travelers who are interested in history will appreciate these ruins the most. Today, these ruins are sitting out in the open, but are protected by a fence.
Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah
Located in the center of town, the Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah exhibits stunning Islamic architecture, similar to the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah. This madrasah was built in the 17th century. Today, there are various classrooms within the courtyard of the madrasah which still play a role in educating the local population today. There are also occasionally folklore shows that take place here.
Kukaldosh Madrasah
A few steps away is the Kukaldosh Madrasah. This madrasah is slightly older than the Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah as it was built in the 16th century. Today, there are dozens of vendors in the courtyard, selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
Nasreddin Hodja Statue
I had never heard of Nasreddin Hodja before coming to Central Asia. However, his statue is located in front of the Kukaldosh Madrasah, and it was almost always surrounded by visitors.
Apparently, he was the king of humor in the 13th century. Here’s a statement attributed to him:
The people asked Hodja, “Can a man who is 100 years old have a child?”
Hodja responded, “If he has neighbors, 20-30 years old, then he can!”
Where to Stay in Bukhara
You can find accommodations for all types of budgets in Bukhara. I stayed at Amir-Yaxyo Hotel and highly recommend it. For less than $20/night, you get a nice breakfast, your own private room, good WiFi speed, and a very centralized location. The hosts are also very helpful and willing to drop you off at the train station.
I recommend staying near the Magoki Attori Mosque due to its centralized location.
Check out the map below to see available accommodations.
Where to Visit After Bukhara
Samarkand
Samarkand is another ancient city on the Silk Road that is worth visiting. It is famous for Registan Square, one of Uzbekistan’s most iconic monuments. You can easily travel there via train. The Afrosiyab is the faster (and slightly more expensive) option, while the Sharq is slower and cheaper. You can buy your ticket here.
Expect to pay between 100,000 and 250,000 UZS ($8 – 20.52 USD in 2023, see current rates here) for the ticket.
Tashkent
You can easily visit Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, from Bukhara. Depending on which train you choose, you can get there in either 7 hours (Afrosiyab) or 9 hours (Sharq).
Expect to pay between 85,000 and 150,000 UZS ($7 -12.40 USD in 2023, see current rates here) for the ticket.
Turkmenistan
Bukhara is located near the border of Turkmenistan, and is a convenient place for travelers to cross into the country. Before attempting to visit Turkmenistan, ensure you have all the required documents to enter!
You can check out this guide on crossing the border into Turkmenistan.
