How to Khiva Travel Guide – Full Trip Planning & Local Tips
Located deep in the Khorezm region of western Uzbekistan, Khiva is a perfectly preserved slice of Silk Road history. From its striking sand-colored minarets to its labyrinthine old town walls, Khiva offers an unforgettable immersion into Uzbekistan’s past. But how to get to Khiva and make the most of your time there? This complete Khiva travel guide from Kalishtrip.uz has you covered.
📍 Where is Khiva?
Khiva is located near the Turkmenistan border, approximately 1,000 km west of Tashkent. It’s part of the Khorezm Province, and its old city — Itchan Kala — is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
🚉 How to Get to Khiva: Travel Options
1. Tashkent to Urgench by Flight (Recommended)
- 🛫 Daily flights: Tashkent → Urgench (1.5 hours)
- 🚖 Taxi or transfer from Urgench Airport to Khiva (35 minutes)
- ✅ Fastest & most convenient
2. Tashkent to Khiva by Train
- 🚅 High-speed Afrosiyob train to Bukhara → transfer → overnight train to Khiva
- 🕓 Total time: 12–14 hours
- 🎫 Book early, limited first-class options
3. Tashkent to Khiva by Car or Tour Van
- 🚗 Distance: ~1,000 km (12–14 hours drive)
- 🏞️ Great for scenic stops in Nurata, Bukhara
- 🚐 Kalishtrip offers guided overland tours
🧭 Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, book our Tashkent–Urgench–Khiva express tour package for the most efficient itinerary.
🏨 Where to Stay in Khiva
| Hotel Name | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Orient Star Khiva | Mid-range | Inside ancient madrasa, historic vibes |
| Zukhro Boutique Hotel | Budget | Family-run, friendly staff, great breakfast |
| Khiva Silk Road Caravan Sarai | Luxury | Spa, terrace views, modern heritage |
🏠 Check Kalishtrip.uz for partner hotel deals & fast booking.
📅 Best Time to Visit Khiva
| Season | Weather | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 18–27°C | Best for sightseeing, mild temps |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 35–45°C | Very hot, early morning tours only |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 15–25°C | Best for photography, festivals |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | -5–5°C | Quiet, magical snow scenes |
🌤️ Avoid midday in summer. Khiva’s cobbled streets heat up fast.
🗺️ Things to Do in Khiva: Top Attractions
🕌 1. Itchan Kala (Old City)
- Ancient walled city
- Entrance fee required (combo ticket available)
- Sunset views from Islam Khodja minaret
🕋 2. Kalta Minor Minaret
- Iconic unfinished turquoise minaret
- Great photo spot
📚 3. Kunya-Ark Citadel
- Royal court, prison, and mint
- Climb for city views
🏛️ 4. Tosh Hovli Palace
- Lavish interior rooms, harem section
- Beautiful tilework and courtyards
🛍️ 5. Local Craft Shops
- Handmade carpets, knives, and ceramics
- Bargain with local artisans
🌅 Bonus: Evening Walks on City Walls
- Less crowded after 6 PM
- Golden hour for photos
🥘 Where to Eat in Khiva
- Bir Gumbaz – Traditional Uzbek plov and kebabs
- Yasavul Boshi Restaurant – Outdoor courtyard, vegetarian options
- Terrassa Cafe – Rooftop dining, panoramic views of Itchan Kala
🍽️ Kalishtrip’s Khiva food tours offer tasting menus and home-cooked meals.
🧳 What to Pack for Khiva
- Lightweight clothing + scarf (for sun)
- Good walking shoes (cobbled streets)
- Hat, sunscreen, and refillable water bottle
- Camera or smartphone with extra storage
🎒 You can also rent gear via Kalishtrip.uz in Tashkent before heading west.
🕰️ 3-Day Sample Khiva Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival + Orientation
- Flight/train to Urgench → transfer to Khiva
- Sunset at Kalta Minor + dinner in old town
Day 2: Explore Itchan Kala
- Kunya-Ark, Tosh Hovli Palace, Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum
- Rooftop lunch → guided walking tour → artisan shopping
Day 3: Local Life & Departure
- Breakfast at bazaar
- Optional camel ride or museum visit
- Transfer back to Urgench or continue to Nukus/Aral Sea
📌 Travel Tips: How to Khiva, the Smart Way
- 🗣️ Language: Uzbek & Russian — download a translation app
- 💳 Money: Take Uzbek soms in cash — ATMs can be limited
- 📱 SIM Cards: Buy in Tashkent for better service in Khiva
- 🔌 Electricity: European round pins (220V)
✈️ Book your entire trip — flights, hotels, guides — in one place at Kalishtrip.uz.
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