Most nationalities need a visa for Uzbekistan. Check with the embassy; e-visas are available for many countries.

What currency is used?

Uzbekistani som (UZS). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, but cash is king for markets and small shops.

Is English widely spoken?

Not widely. Russian and Uzbek are common. Learn a few phrases or use a translation app.

Can I drink tap water?

No, tap water is not safe. Buy bottled water or boil it.

How do I get to Xiva from Tashkent?

Take a flight to Urgench (1.5 hours) then a taxi (30 min) or a shared minibus. Overnight trains also run from Tashkent.

What is the dress code for visiting religious sites?

Cover shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to cover their hair in some mosques.

Are there ATMs in Xiva?

Yes, a few ATMs in the city center, but they may run out of cash. Bring enough som from Urgench.

Is it safe to travel solo as a woman?

Yes, Xiva is safe for solo female travelers, but dress modestly and avoid walking alone late at night.

Xiva

CityXorazm, Uzbekistan

Xiva is a CITY in Xorazm, Uzbekistan.

Xiva, a jewel of the Silk Road, is a living museum of turquoise domes and ancient mud-brick walls. The walled inner city, Itchan Kala, is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can wander through narrow alleys past towering minarets, ornate madrasas, and the majestic Kunya-Ark fortress. The city's history as a key trading post and the capital of the Khanate of Khiva is palpable in every carved wooden column and tile mosaic. Today, Xiva offers a quieter, more intimate experience than Samarkand or Bukhara, with fewer crowds and a genuine sense of stepping back in time. Don't miss the sunset view from the Islam Khodja Minaret, the tallest in Central Asia, or a stroll through the bustling bazaar outside the west gate. The city is a photographer's paradise, with every corner revealing a new perspective on its rich history.

Best time to visit Xiva

The best time to visit Xiva is spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild (20-30°C) and the skies are clear. Summer (July-August) can be scorching (40°C+), making sightseeing uncomfortable. Winter (December-February) is cold but offers fewer tourists and lower prices.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Mostly clear
Temperature: 6°
Feels like: 1°
Humidity: 39%
Wind: 12 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 10-22°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Autumn colors, comfortable

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

UGC

Urgench International Airport

International

35 km away

Getting around

"Xiva is compact and best explored on foot, especially the Itchan Kala. For longer distances, taxis are affordable (around $1-2 within town). Shared minibuses (marshrutkas) connect to Urgench (30 km) and other towns. Bicycle rentals are available near the west gate. Avoid renting a car as parking is limited and streets are narrow."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes in the old city

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Urgench airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall. Scam risk is low but be cautious with unofficial guides.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall. Scam risk is low but be cautious with unofficial guides.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Xiva is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so keep valuables secure. Be cautious of unofficial guides or touts offering overpriced tours. At night, the old city is well-lit and safe to walk, but stick to main streets. The local police are helpful and visible. Scams are rare but be wary of taxi drivers overcharging; agree on a fare beforehand."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water. The summer heat can be intense, so stay hydrated and use sun protection. Medical facilities are basic; for serious issues, travel to Urgench or Tashkent. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date and consider hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines. Pharmacies are available but may not stock all medications, so bring a basic first-aid kit."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially when entering mosques or madrasas (cover shoulders and knees). Greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites. Photography is generally allowed, but ask permission before taking pictures of people. Avoid public displays of affection. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service."

Uzbek (official)RussianTajikKarakalpakKazakhUzbek

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Xiva is very affordable for budget travelers. Mid-range options are also available.

Timezone

Asia/Samarkand
Local time 05:12

More facts

Population

115,000

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Chiva, Chiwa, Hiiva, Hiva, Jiva, Khiva, Khivà, Khiwa, Khorezm, Xiva, khywa, khywh, khywt, Ĥiva, Хива, خيوة, خیوا, خیوه, ヒヴァ, Hywa, Hive, Xiywa, Хіва

Major HubHistoricCulturalUNESCOSilk RoadPhotographyFamily-Friendly