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Khiva Travel Guide

Sep 12, 2026 • Reading time: 5 min

Khiva is one of the most ancient cities in Uzbekistan, with a history spanning over 2,500 years. The city was one of the important centers located on the northern branch of the Great Silk Road.

The greatest treasure of Khiva is Ichan-Kala. This is a historic inner city surrounded by high defensive walls, where mosques, madrasas, palaces, mausoleums, minarets, shopping rows, and ancient houses have been preserved. Ichan-Kala was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1990.

Today's Khiva is not just a collection of historical monuments. It is a living museum-city where people still live and work.

⏳ How many days are enough for Khiva?

⭐️ 1 day

You can see the main parts of Ichan-Kala:

Kalta Minor → Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah → Kunya-Ark → Juma Mosque → Islam Khodja Minaret → Tosh Hovli → Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum → handicraft stalls

This option is suitable for tourists traveling quickly.

⭐️⭐️ 2 days — the best option

Day 1:
Ichan-Kala and main historical monuments.

Day 2:
Additional palaces, museums, handicraft workshops, local cuisine, and Khorezm cultural experiences.

If you want to experience Khiva without rushing, we recommend 2 days.

🏰 Kunya-Ark Citadel

Kunya-Ark is a historical fortress that served as the residence of the Khans of Khiva.

Built at the end of the 17th century, this complex later turned into a **"fortress within a fortress"**. It houses the khan's reception hall, mosques, harem, mint, stables, workshops, and a prison.

You can enjoy a view of the historical center of Khiva from the upper part of the fortress.

🕌 Juma Mosque

Juma Mosque is one of the most unique buildings in Khiva.

The interior of the mosque is supported by hundreds of wooden pillars. UNESCO records 212 pillars.

The mosque differs from conventional large-domed mosques — its interior space stands out with columns and wood carving.

It is also one of the most interesting spots for photography.

🕌 Islam Khodja Minaret

Islam Khodja Minaret is the tallest and most famous minaret in Khiva.

The minaret is visible from almost all points of Ichan-Kala.

Climbing to its top, you can view the entire historical center of Khiva from above.

🏛️ Tosh Hovli Palace

Tosh Hovli is one of the most important palaces preserved from the era of the Khans of Khiva.

Built in the 19th century, the palace features luxurious courtyards, reception halls, living quarters, and a harem.

It is especially famous for its wood carving, tiles, and colorful decorations.

🕌 Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum

Pahlavon Mahmud was a famous poet, philosopher, and wrestler of Khorezm.

His mausoleum is considered one of the most important pilgrimage and architectural sites in Khiva. Located within Ichan-Kala, this complex stands out with its blue tiles and exquisite decorations.