Things to do in Uzbekistan

The history of the Silk Road is a fascinating and multi-faceted tale which, as you begin to unravel it, will explain the mystery of the myth-laden road, and inspire yet more questions. Uzbekistan’s artistic influences, architecture, and the stories of the cultures that put those there will grip history buffs and enchant those who never even knew they had an interest. Between the 9th and 16th centuries it was common for even the smaller cities along the Silk Road route to house over 200 mosques, and Uzbekistan’s skylines are peppered with dozens of bright azure, onion-shaped domes.

As well as the impacts of the Silk Road, Uzbekistan’s history of conquests, empires and Soviet rule has had a colossal impact on its architecture. Literally. Often it is the contrast of Soviet brutalism and exquisite Islamic finery that delights architectural aficionados here. The Tashkent metro is a great place to start. Constructed after the devastating earthquake of 1966, its 29 stations are gems of Soviet modern art mixed with Islamic glam and glitz. Similarly, the city has vast Soviet style boulevards, built to cater for tanks and processions, as well as a beautifully brutal Museum of History, the extraordinary Hotel Uzbekistan and many more.

The cities are what so many people come for, but the desert is never far in Uzbekistan, given that over 80 percent of the country is claimed by it. Head northwest for desert terrain, treks on camels and overnight stays in traditional camel hair yurts. Or drive across the infamous Aral Sea – once water, now desert – where ghostly remains of ships and sea life still remain, all harsh reminders of environmental catastrophes wrought by the human race.

Trains are efficient, prolific and in some cases very modern, such as the Spanish-designed high speed Afrosiyob train connecting Tashkent with Samarkand in under 2.5 hours. There are also lots of sleeper trains, including from Tashkent – Urgench (near Khiva) which takes 16 hours. And for something completely different, check out the luxury rail holiday from Tashkent to Tehran, with plenty of Uzbek stops along the way.