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Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan, a jewel of Central Asia, captivates explorers with its ancient cities, rich cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. In Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, you can wander through mesmerizing mosques, intricate madrasas, and bustling bazaars that evoke the Silk Road era. The turquoise domes of Registan Square in Samarkand and the towering Ark Fortress in Bukhara are testaments to Uzbekistan’s architectural splendour. Outside the cities, the vast deserts of Kyzylkum and the lush Fergana Valley offer contrasting landscapes and opportunities for exploration.

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What you’ll love most about Uzbekistan

  • Wander through the ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand, where the dazzling blue domes of Registan Square and intricate mosaics of Shah-i-Zinda transport you to another era
  • Explore Bukhara’s well-preserved old town, filled with centuries-old madrasas, bustling bazaars, and the towering Kalyan Minaret, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture
  • Discover Khiva’s open-air museum, Ichan Kala, a UNESCO-listed walled city where mudbrick palaces, mosques, and minarets tell stories of Uzbekistan’s rich past
  • Ride the modern Afrosiyob train through the vast Uzbek landscapes, linking historic cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara with speed and comfort
  • Experience Uzbekistan’s warm hospitality by staying in a traditional guesthouse, sipping green tea in a chaikhana, and tasting plov, the country’s beloved rice dish
  • Trek the Nuratau Mountains, where remote villages, scenic valleys, and ancient petroglyphs offer a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s rural traditions and natural beauty

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Tashkent’s weather patterns

  • Mir I Arab Madrassa, Uzbekistan

  • Public square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 7℃
  • 9℃
  • 16℃
  • 23℃
  • 28℃
  • 34℃
  • 36℃
  • 35℃
  • 29℃
  • 21℃
  • 14℃
  • 9℃
  • 8
  • 7
  • 9
  • 6
  • 5
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 4
  • 5
  • 7

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Winter grips Uzbekistan with temperatures often falling below freezing, particularly in cities like Tashkent and Samarkand. Snow blankets the landscapes, making it a picturesque time to explore the grand Islamic architecture of Registan Square or Bukhara’s historic mosques without the usual tourist crowds. The Chimgan Mountains near Tashkent offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities for those seeking winter sports.

February

The cold lingers, but signs of the approaching spring begin to emerge. February is a great time to experience the local culture indoors, from the grand museums of Tashkent to the bustling bazaars selling intricate silk textiles and handcrafted ceramics. Those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences can visit the ancient fortresses of Khorezm, standing resilient in the desert landscape.

March

Spring arrives, bringing milder temperatures of around 15°C. The country comes alive with the celebration of Navruz, the Persian New Year, marked by lively festivities, traditional music, and special dishes like sumalak. It’s an excellent time to explore the Silk Road cities, as the weather is pleasant and the gardens surrounding historic sites begin to bloom.

April

With temperatures rising to around 23°C, this is one of the best months for sightseeing. Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are particularly stunning as flowers bloom in the courtyards of ancient madrassas and palaces. Outdoor markets are bustling with fresh produce, and the desert regions, including the Kyzylkum, are more comfortable for exploration before the heat of summer sets in.

May

Late spring is warm but not yet scorching, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. This is an ideal time to visit the Nuratau Mountains, where visitors can hike through traditional villages and witness centuries-old ways of life. The Ferghana Valley, Uzbekistan’s agricultural heartland, is lush and green, offering opportunities to explore its rich silk production heritage.

June

Summer sets in, and temperatures soar to around 35°C, particularly in desert regions. Mornings and evenings remain pleasant for exploring the architectural wonders of Samarkand and Bukhara. For a break from the heat, head to Charvak Reservoir or Aidarkul Lake, where locals escape for swimming, boating, and overnight stays in yurts.

July

With temperatures often exceeding 35-40°C, July is one of the hottest months, making it essential to explore in the early mornings or late afternoons. This is a great time for an overnight desert adventure - staying in a yurt camp near Lake Aidarkul offers a unique experience, with stargazing opportunities in the vast Kyzylkum Desert.

August

The intense summer heat continues, but cultural experiences remain rewarding. Tashkent’s air-conditioned museums, such as the State Museum of History, offer a respite from the sun. Those seeking adventure can explore the remote fortresses of Karakalpakstan, near the dried-up Aral Sea, a haunting reminder of Soviet-era environmental mismanagement.

September

Temperatures drop to a more comfortable range of 25°C to 30°C, making it an ideal month for travel. Uzbekistan’s vineyards come to life during the grape harvest season, and wine-tasting tours in Samarkand provide a unique experience. The historic cities are still lively, but with fewer crowds than in peak spring months.

October

With daytime temperatures averaging 20°C, October is another fantastic time for sightseeing. The autumn landscapes provide a stunning contrast against the blue-tiled mosques and madrassas. Harvest festivals bring a showcase of local produce, including melons, pomegranates, and nuts, making markets a delight for food lovers.

November

Temperatures drop to around 10°C, and the crowds thin, offering a quieter experience at major historical sites. It’s a great time for cultural exploration, whether visiting the ancient manuscripts of the Tashkent Library or attending a traditional maqom music performance. The desert regions begin to cool, making them more accessible for exploration.

December

Winter returns with chilly temperatures, but the country’s warm hospitality remains inviting. Snow dusts the minarets of Bukhara and Samarkand, creating a magical atmosphere. Tashkent’s festive lights and bazaars make for a charming setting, and the nearby Chimgan Mountains provide skiing opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.

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