Khiva Day Tour: Explore the Walled City of Ichan Kala
Overview
Full-day guided tour of Khiva's UNESCO-listed Ichan Kala walled city, covering all major monuments, minarets, and palaces.
Step through the gates of Ichan Kala and into a living museum of Silk Road architecture. This full-day guided tour of Khiva covers every major monument within the perfectly preserved inner walled city — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like stepping back in time.
Your expert guide leads you through the maze of minarets, madrasahs, and palaces, telling the stories of the rulers, scholars, and slaves who shaped this remarkable desert city. Climb the Islam Khodja Minaret for panoramic views, explore the ornate tilework of the Tosh-Hovli Palace, and wander the 218 carved wooden pillars of the ancient Juma Mosque. The tour includes free time for bazaar browsing and photography of the stunning mud-brick skyline.
Highlights
- Explore UNESCO-listed Ichan Kala walled city with expert guide
- Climb Islam Khodja Minaret for panoramic city views
- Visit ornate Tosh-Hovli Palace with its stunning tilework
- See the ancient Juma Mosque with 218 carved wooden pillars
- Free time for bazaar shopping and photography
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees to monuments
- Ichan Kala combined ticket
- Bottled water
Not Included
- Transportation to/from Khiva
- Meals and drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide
- Personal shopping
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 2 days before the tour start time. You can cancel up to 2 days in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour. No refund for cancellations within 48 hours.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
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Day 1
Morning: Enter through West Gate (Ota Darvoza), visit Kunya-Ark Citadel and Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah. Mid-morning: Climb Islam Khodja Minaret for panoramic views. Visit Juma Mosque with its 218 carved pillars. Lunch break at local restaurant. Afternoon: Tosh-Hovli Palace, Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, craft workshops. Free time for bazaar browsing and photography before evening departure.
Meeting Point & Pickup
Hotel Pickup Included
Free pickup from any hotel within Khiva city center (5 km radius). Please provide your hotel name when booking.
Alternative Meeting Point
Your guide will meet you at your hotel lobby in Khiva, or at the West Gate (Ota Darvoza) of Ichan-Kala if you prefer.
Address: Khiva West Gate (Ota Darvoza)
Know Before You Go
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Comfortable footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes
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Weather protection: Bring sunscreen and hat in summer, warm layers in winter
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Camera: Bring a camera for photos (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and some local currency for personal expenses.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Please contact us for specific age recommendations for this tour.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Please see our terms for details.