Overview

Uzbekistan is officially known as the Republic of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is located on Great Silk Road and shares its borders with Kazakhstan to the north and the west, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to the east, and Turkmenistan and Afghanistan to the south. The capital of Uzbekistan is Tashkent.

Scholars believe that the current location of Uzbekistan was inhabited as early as the second century BC. Like many of its neighboring countries, Uzbekistan was invaded and conquered by Alexander the Great, culminating in Alexander marrying the daughter of a local Bactrian chieftain.

Timur, or Tamberlane as he is often known, built an empire in the area in the 14^th century, but as the Russian Empire began its slow and steady expansion, soon Uzbekistan was a part of the Russian Empire as well. On October 27, 1924, Uzbekistan became the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, but as Soviet power waned and finally collapsed, the country declared its independence on August 31, 1991.

Activities & Attractions

With a number of larger cities, it is easy to find plenty to do in Uzbekistan. Within the capital city of Tashkent there are several places to visit and enjoy. The Independence Square or the Mustakillik Square is the main town square of the capital. Performances and shows can be enjoyed in the Navoi Opera Theater. Visitors can experience a bit of the west in the laid back Game Sports Café. The religious site of Kukeldash Medressa offers numerous opportunities to take panoramic images. You can observe the grand architecture of the Teleshayakh Mosque to get a glimpse into the spirituality of the region.

The mountainous terrain also makes Uzbekistan a popular spot for mountaineering and rock climbing. To buy inexpensive souvenirs, the right place would be the street market held at Tizzykafka Bazaar. At the Chorsu Bazaar, you can find plenty of low cost clothing and textiles.

Lodging

Like many other Asian countries, a traveler can find a wide variety of quality hotels at affordable prices. Accommodations in Uzbekistan can be divided into four categories, ranging from brand new hotels and moderately priced hotels to the former Sputnik Hotels and bed and breakfast inns.

Transportation

Getting around Uzbekistan can sometimes be tricky since the infrastructure is a little inconvenient for travelers. The most affordable and helpful mode of travel is the train system. You will want to keep in mind that the fare and schedules vary. Traveling by car is also possible as well but you will need to avoid the borders as they can have land mine risks. Most borders are not open to travelers without following proper bureaucratic measures.