Witness the Aladdin setting in real life with its glorious mosques, minarets, and medieval-style Islamic monuments in Uzbekistan. Boasting the iconic Silk Road cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, this place is a melting point of cultures laid back with a history of Arab, Persian and Russian rulers. Plan your vacation to Uzbekistan in December for a great time and a hearty Christmas mood. The architectural marvels and rugged terrains of Uzbekistan offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of this place, and December is just the right time to explore it all. Engulf in the warm hospitality of this place, along with the colourful festivals celebrated here that make Uzbekistan a fabulous place for your vacation.
Top 7 Places To Visit In Uzbekistan In December 2024
We present to you the best cities, towns, and tourist attractions of Uzbekistan that you ought to explore when you visit this wonderful country in December. Make sure you put them all in your itinerary at once.
1. Registan Square
Image Credit: Ekrem Canli for Wikimedia Commons
Samarkand is an excellent stopover for tourists on the Silk Road. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is well maintained by the authorities. Apart from its legendary history, it is known for baking healthy and tasty bread. So, if you find yourself in Samarkand, try the yummy bread. This place is known for its intricate mausoleums and mosques.
Registan Square is one of the top tourist attractions in Samarkand and is the most gorgeous square in the world. It is known for its Islamic architecture and the three madrassas. In the Timurid dynasty, this public square was the very centre of the ancient city of Samarkand. Travel to this place in Uzbekistan in December to make your vacation memorable.
Also Read: Uzbekistan Travel Tips
2. Chor Minor
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In the northeast of Bukhara, Khalif Niyazkul constructed Chor Minor in the 18th century. It features four minarets decked with unique decorations, the name of which is Chor Minor. Three towers are used for storage, while one comprises a staircase that leads to the topmost floor. All the towers are decked with blue ceramic tiles and are topped by domes. While you are visiting Uzbekistan, Chor Minar is one of the must-see places that you should go.
3. State Museum Of The History Of Uzbekistan
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The State Museum, earlier called the National Museum of Turkestan, was founded in 1876 and is one of the oldest museums in Central Asia. It showcases over 250,000 exhibits that symbolize Uzbek history. The main high point of this museum is the alabaster Buddha found in Fayaz Tepe in Termez. Also, a collection of ethnic art and costumes from different parts of Uzbekistan is presented here.
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4. Amir Timur Museum
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Amir Timur Museum is dedicated to Timur, a Mongol conqueror. It houses 5,000 exhibits and artefacts, including 2000 in the museum’s exhibition hall. The building resembles the Gur-e Amir mausoleum, which is located in the city of Samarkand.
The museum’s blue dome reflects central Asian Islamic architecture. The collection includes manuscripts and paintings. The gardens encircle the museum and include a statue of Timur on horseback and a few attractive fountains.
5. Aydarkul Lake
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Aydarkul Lake happens to be a semi-natural lake that covers an area of about 4,000 sq kms. Positioned amidst the Kyzylkum desert, this tiny seasonal lake is one of the top places for nature lovers to explore. Sazan, Catfish, pike perch, and chehon are the fish that can be spotted here.
This lake is also a source of industrial fishing. Another interesting fact about this lake is that it provides 760 and 2,000 tonnes of fish annually. Uzbekistan in December is truly amazing, so while planning your vacation, explore the serenity of Aydarkul Lake.
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6. Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
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Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum occupies an essential place in Turko-Persian Architecture history. It is Amir Timur’s final resting place. It’s a unique octahedral building crowned by a beautiful dome. Infused with amazing culture and rich history, this complex comprises Khananka, the madrasah of Muhammad Sultan, and the tombs of Amir Timur.
The complex courtyard has a single wall decorated with four minarets at the corners. In the north, a magnificent entrance portal contains the name of Muhammad ibn Mahmud Isfahani.
7. Sher Dor Madrasa
Image Credit: Doris Ingeborg Lohse for Wikimedia Commons
Have a glance at the magnificent architecture of this famous Sher Dor Madrasa. This Madrasa is adorned with pieces of flame-coloured roaring lions. You can also find the lion and deer chasing scenes depicted in the Zoroastrian style here. Also, the turquoise fluted cupolas make this Madrasa quite impressive. The entire Madrasa is lit up during the day and turns dark blue at night.
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Top Things To Do In Uzbekistan In December
Read and explore things to do in Uzbekistan in December. Grab some delectable cuisines, indulge in some adventures, and go shopping for all the handicrafts at this place.
1. Bibi Khanym Mosque: Offer Prayers
Image Credit: Adam Jones for Wikimedia Commons
Bibi Khanym Mosque is one of the world’s biggest mosques northeast of the famous Registan area. It is a jewel of this place, and Taimur financed its construction. Everything is so beautiful in this place that you are bound to feel spiritual and mesmerized.
2. Fish Market: Try Something Unique
En route to the famous Chinoz Fish Market, where you can find plenty of fish restaurants. If you have an undying love for seafood, head to these restaurants serving ample fish delicacies. You can buy the fish sold here to cook your fish curry.
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3. Tashkent: Shop For Handicrafts
Are you thinking about things to do in Uzbekistan? Then it would be best if you tried out shopping over everything. There are ample places where you can head for shopping handicrafts. Abul Kasim Medressa is converted into a school and workshop for the artisans. Buy products like metal works, articles made out of carved wood, miniatures, paintings, and lacquerware. Lacquer boxes, ceramics, and items engraved with detailed embroidery are worth your attention.
4. Pulav Center:
Image Credit: Ji-Elle for Wikimedia Commons
The most loved food item in Uzbekistan is the Pulav. It is a national dish that consists of rice, vegetables, and mutton. Enrich your tastebuds with the scrumptious Pulav prepared here. This centre has a structure very similar to an opera house, preparing over 1,500 kg of pulav in a day. This is the most fabulous centre, where the entire pulao is sold out in a day.
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Visiting Uzbekistan in December is the right choice for those wishing to experience something unique and exciting on holiday. The aforementioned handpicked places and things to do in Uzbekistan will make your vacation genuinely memorable. Grab this opportunity to explore this magical city with a delightful trip to Uzbekistan this December.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Uzbekistan In December
Does Uzbekistan have snow?
Snowfall during the winter season is very common in Uzbekistan. It kicks off during the last few days of January.
How cold does Uzbekistan get in winter?
Uzbekistan has a continental climate. The south is warm, while the north is coldest. The average temperature in December ranges up to -8°C (18°F) in the north and 0°C (32°F) in the south.
Is Uzbekistan fun to visit?
Uzbekistan is fun to visit as it incorporates fabulous tourist destinations known for excellent architecture.
What is the coldest month in Uzbekistan?
January is the coldest month in Uzbekistan.
Which is better to visit, Samarkand or Tashkent?
The capital, Tashkent, is a more modern city with good food options, ranging from traditional dishes to modern international options. But Samarkand's options were rather limited.
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A keen observer, an avid reader, a complete foodie, a pet lover and a curious entrepreneur with a vision to empower women. Penning down thoughts and musings come naturally, so, what better way to make a living than do what you love the most. Sujata started off as a content writer and today spearheads a content agency with an all-women team, where each day is about exploring the strength within, overcoming challenges and aiming to scale new heights. Her idea of a holiday well spent is visiting beautiful destinations, experimenting with food and trying out adventure activities.