Places to visit

Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination with a mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks. Here are the must-visit places in Tashkent:

• Amir Timur Square - Amir Timur Square is a central gathering place symbolising Tashkent's rich history. The square features a grand statue of Amir Timur, a legendary Central Asian conqueror. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and historic buildings, offering a pleasant atmosphere for a stroll.
• Chorsu Bazaar - Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting Chorsu Bazaar, one of Tashkent's oldest and largest markets. Here, you can explore the colourful stalls selling various goods, including fresh produce, spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Uzbek souvenirs. Don't forget to try some delicious local snacks and street food.
• Tashkent Metro - Known for its stunning architecture and ornate designs, the Tashkent Metro is not just a mode of transportation but also a fascinating underground art gallery. Each station has its unique theme, featuring intricate mosaics, chandeliers, and marble decorations. Taking a ride on the metro is like exploring an underground museum.
• Kukeldash Madrasah - Step back in time and visit the Kukeldash Madrasah, an old Islamic school dating back to the 16th century. This well-preserved architectural marvel showcases the beautiful craftsmanship of the Timurid era. Explore the intricate details of the facade, wander through the peaceful courtyard, and admire the site's historical significance.
• Independence Square - Also known as Mustakillik Square, Independence Square is a prominent landmark in Tashkent. It is a spacious square with manicured gardens, fountains, and impressive monuments representing the country's independence. The square offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk and is often the venue for various cultural events and celebrations.
• Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre - For a taste of the performing arts, head to the Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, an architectural masterpiece and one of the largest theatres in Central Asia. The theatre hosts various opera, ballet, and musical performances yearly. Experience the grandeur of the building and enjoy a captivating cultural performance.
• Hazrat Imam Complex - Visit the Hazrat Imam Complex, a religious and cultural centre in Tashkent. The complex includes several historical buildings, such as the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tilla Sheikh Mosque, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. Admire the intricate architectural details, explore the museum, and soak in the peaceful ambience of this spiritual site.
• Tashkent Museum of Applied Arts - Explore the rich artistic heritage of Uzbekistan at the Tashkent Museum of Applied Arts. The museum showcases a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary artworks, including ceramics, textiles, woodwork, jewellery, and more. It provides insight into the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the region.

Tashkent is known for its rich culinary traditions and diverse food scene. Here are the fantastic places to eat in Tashkent:

• Central Asian Plov Center - No visit to Tashkent is complete without trying the iconic dish of Central Asia - plov. The Central Asian Plov Center is a popular eatery serving delicious and authentic Uzbek Plov. Plov is a flavorful rice dish cooked with various ingredients, including meat, carrots, onions, and spices. The restaurant offers different variations of plov, each with its unique combination. It's a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to savour the traditional taste of Uzbekistan.
• Chaykhona 21 - For a taste of Uzbek hospitality and a vibrant dining experience, head to Chaykhona 21. This traditional tea house offers an extensive menu of Uzbek and Central Asian dishes, including kebabs, soups, dumplings, and more. The restaurant's cosy and colourful decor, complete with Uzbek carpets and traditional seating areas, creates a warm and inviting ambience. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a cup of fragrant Uzbek tea while relishing the flavoursome cuisine.
• Art Café Caravan - For a fusion of flavours and a more contemporary dining experience, Art Café Caravan is the place to be. This trendy restaurant combines Uzbek and international cuisines, offering a unique culinary experience. From traditional Uzbek dishes with a modern twist to international favourites, the menu caters to various tastes. The restaurant's vibrant and artsy atmosphere, featuring local artwork and live music performances, adds to the overall charm. It's a great spot to indulge in flavorful dishes while enjoying the cultural vibe of Tashkent.

Tashkent offers a mix of traditional markets and modern shopping centres to cater to your desires. So, indulge in a shopping spree and explore the vibrant retail landscape of Tashkent. Here are three places to shop in Tashkent:

• Chorsu Bazaar - Chorsu Bazaar is a bustling and vibrant traditional market that has been a part of Tashkent's cultural fabric for centuries. Located in the city's heart, this historic market is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and aromas. You can find various goods here, including fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, nuts, traditional Uzbek bread, handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and more. Take your time to explore the labyrinthine alleys of Chorsu Bazaar, interact with local vendors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this authentic Uzbek market.
• Tashkent City Mall - For a modern and upscale shopping experience, head to Tashkent City Mall. This contemporary shopping centre houses a wide range of international and local brands, offering a diverse selection of clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items. You'll find popular fashion brands, electronics stores, beauty salons, cafes, and a spacious food court offering various cuisines. Whether looking for the latest fashion trends or exploring global brands, Tashkent City Mall is a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
• Alay Bazaar - Alay Bazaar is another prominent market in Tashkent that attracts locals and tourists alike. Located in the city's heart, this market is known for its extensive collection of textiles and handicrafts. You can find beautifully woven carpets, embroidered textiles, traditional Uzbek clothing, jewellery, and various souvenirs here. The market is also famous for its dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Enjoy the vibrant ambience, bargain with the friendly vendors, and take home unique souvenirs that reflect Uzbekistan's rich culture and craftsmanship.

After booking flights to Tashkent from India, there are several excellent accommodation options to choose from. Here are the best-recommended places to stay:

• Hyatt Regency Tashkent - Hyatt Regency Tashkent is a luxury hotel offering a premium experience for travellers. The hotel features spacious and elegantly designed rooms and suites with modern amenities and beautiful city views. Guests can enjoy various facilities, including multiple dining options, a rooftop pool, a fitness centre, and a spa. The hotel's central location makes exploring Tashkent's attractions, shopping centres, and restaurants convenient.
• Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace - Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace is a historic hotel that combines traditional Uzbek architecture with modern comfort. This hotel is situated in the city centre and provides a charming ambience and impeccable service. The rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy dining at the hotel's restaurant, which offers a selection of international and local cuisine. The hotel's central location allows easy access to landmarks such as Independence Square and Amir Timur Square.
• City Palace Hotel - City Palace Hotel is a boutique hotel in Tashkent, offering a unique blend of contemporary design and Uzbek hospitality. The hotel features stylishly appointed rooms with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. Guests can savour international and local dishes at the hotel's restaurant or unwind at the cosy bar. The hotel's convenient location allows easy access to popular attractions, shopping areas, and entertainment venues.

In addition to the places to visit, eat, and shop, there are many other reasons to consider booking India to Uzbekistan flights with IndiGo. Here are some of them:

• Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities - Tashkent is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that offer outdoor activities and exploration opportunities. Just a short distance from the city, visitors can discover the stunning Chimgan Mountains, part of the more extensive Tian Shan mountain range. This picturesque region is perfect for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the pristine beauty of nature. The Charvak Reservoir, located in the foothills of the mountains, is a popular spot for water sports, picnics, and relaxation. Tashkent also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Alisher Navoi Park, where visitors can enjoy a stroll or a picnic amidst lush greenery.
• Warm Hospitality and Authentic Cuisine - Uzbekistan is known for its warm hospitality, and Tashkent is no exception. Visitors can experience the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Uzbek people, who take pride in sharing their culture and traditions with guests. Tashkent offers a diverse culinary scene where visitors can savour authentic Uzbek cuisine. From delicious pilaf and savoury kebabs to flavorful soups and aromatic teas, the local food scene in Tashkent is a delight for food lovers. Exploring the city's restaurants and street food stalls provides an opportunity to indulge in Uzbekistan's unique flavours and culinary traditions.

Visa and Immigration

If you are an Indian passport holder planning to Book a Tashkent flight, it's important to note that you will require a Uzbekistan visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your visit. Start by completing the visa application form, which can be obtained from the Embassy of Uzbekistan or their official website. Fill in the form accurately and provide all the necessary details. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Tashkent. It should also have a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamping.