Guided City Walking Tour in Khiva

You will see palaces with the rich mosaic, unique beautiful minarets, madrassas and mosques such as:

The Kuhna Ark fortress in Khiva is a historic stronghold that once served as the royal residence of Khiva’s Khans. Built in the 17th century, the fortress includes a palace, mosque, mint, and courtrooms, all enclosed within its massive walls. The Ark is situated within the Ichan Kala and offers stunning panoramic views of the old city from its watchtower. It was the center of power in Khiva, showcasing the grandeur and authority of its rulers while also serving as a defensive structure. Visitors can explore its preserved rooms and courtyards, gaining insight into the life of Khiva’s past rulers.

The Pahlavan Mahmud Complex in Khiva is a revered mausoleum dedicated to Pahlavan Mahmud, a legendary poet, philosopher, and wrestler who became the spiritual patron of the city. Built in the 19th century, the complex is one of Khiva’s most significant religious sites, featuring beautiful tile work, intricate domes, and serene courtyards. The mausoleum houses the tomb of Pahlavan Mahmud and other Khiva rulers, making it both a spiritual and historical landmark. Its peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a must-see for visitors exploring Khiva’s rich heritage.

The Tash-Khawli Palace, also known as the Harem Palace, is a remarkable example of 19th-century Khivan architecture located within Khiva’s Ichan Kala. Built by Allakuli Khan, the palace was designed as both a residence and administrative center. The Harem section, where the Khan’s family and wives lived, is particularly famous for its richly decorated rooms, featuring intricate tilework, carved wood ceilings, and ornate courtyards. The palace's design reflects the luxurious lifestyle of Khivan rulers and offers a glimpse into royal life during the Khanate period. It’s a highlight for visitors interested in Khiva’s cultural and architectural heritage.

The Kalta-Minor Minaret is one of Khiva’s most iconic landmarks, known for its striking turquoise tilework and unfinished height. Begun in 1851 by Khan Muhammad Amin, it was intended to be the tallest minaret in Central Asia, but construction stopped after the Khan's death, leaving it at a short, yet impressive 29 meters. Despite its incomplete form, the Kalta-Minor’s wide base and vibrant decoration make it a standout architectural feature in Khiva’s Ichan Kala, symbolizing the grandeur and ambition of the city’s rulers.

The Islam Khoja Complex in Khiva is a stunning architectural ensemble consisting of a madrasa and the tallest minaret in the city, reaching 56 meters. Built in 1908 by Islam Khoja, a prominent vizier, the complex blends traditional Khivan design with modern influences. The towering minaret, adorned with colorful tile bands, offers panoramic views of the city, while the madrasa once served as an important center for Islamic education. The complex is a symbol of Khiva’s rich cultural and religious heritage, and its striking architecture makes it a must-visit site in Ichan Kala.

The Juma Mosque in Khiva is a unique and ancient structure, known for its forest of 218 wooden pillars supporting the roof, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere inside. Built in the 10th century and later renovated in the 18th century, the mosque has an open, airy design with skylights that allow natural light to filter through. Adjacent to the mosque stands the Juma Minaret, a simple yet tall tower offering views over the city. The mosque's architecture reflects traditional Islamic and Khivan styles, making it an important religious and cultural landmark in Ichan Kala.

The Tim of Ala-Kuli Khan is an impressive 19th-century covered bazaar located in the heart of Khiva's Ichan Kala. Built by Ala-Kuli Khan in 1836, it was a bustling trade center along the Silk Road, where merchants from various regions gathered to sell goods like silk, spices, and handicrafts. The Tim's arched structure and high domed ceilings provide a cool and shaded environment, making it a vital hub for commerce in Khiva's history. Today, it remains an important cultural site, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant trade life of the past.

The Madrassah of Abdulla-Khan, built in the late 16th century, is one of Khiva’s oldest and most significant Islamic schools. Located within the Ichan Kala, the madrassah features a traditional design with a central courtyard surrounded by student cells and lecture halls. Its elegant façade is adorned with intricate tile work and carved wooden doors, reflecting the craftsmanship of the time. The madrassah was an important center for religious education and learning in Khiva, contributing to the city’s reputation as a cultural and intellectual hub during the Khanate period.

The Seyyid Allauddin Mausoleum is one of the oldest surviving monuments in Khiva, dating back to the 14th century. It is the burial site of Seyyid Allauddin, a revered Sufi saint and scholar. The mausoleum’s simple yet elegant design features intricate tile work, particularly on the interior, which reflects the early Khivan architectural style. Its spiritual significance and historical value make it an important religious and cultural site within the Ichan Kala, attracting visitors interested in Khiva's rich Sufi heritage.

The Madrassah of Muhammad Amin-Khan, built in 1851, is the largest madrassah in Khiva and one of the most iconic buildings in the Ichan Kala. This grand educational institution features a beautiful façade adorned with intricate blue and white tiles, a large courtyard, and 125 student cells. It was an important center for Islamic learning during the Khanate period. Today, it also houses a hotel, blending history with modern use. Its impressive size and architectural beauty make it a standout landmark in Khiva.

The Nurulla Bay Palace, located in Khiva, was built in the early 20th century as a luxurious residence for the Khan of Khiva. The palace showcases a blend of traditional Khivan architecture with modern European influences, featuring richly decorated rooms, ornate tilework, and beautifully landscaped courtyards. It served as a symbol of the Khan's wealth and power during the later period of Khiva's history. Today, the palace stands as a cultural landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Khiva’s rulers.