A photography journey along the Silk Road: 57 photos that will inspire you to visit Uzbekistan
A photography journey along the Silk Road: 57 photos that will inspire you to visit Uzbekistan
When it comes to ancient architectural brilliance, not many places tend to rival Uzbekistan.
I’ve spent two weeks uncovering Uzbekistan, where I delved deep into the country’s rich and captivating Silk Road history, and was left truly amazed by the immense beauty of it all.
From the grandeur of Samarkand’s famous Registan Square to the perfectly preserved Po-i-Kalyan complex in Bukhara, from the museum-like city of Khiva to the mystical charm that simply lingers in the air here – Uzbekistan is truly something special.
While those architectural masterpieces are something out of the ordinary, this wonderful country is also much more than the legacy this iconic trading route left behind.
I’ve been wandering through the maze-like laneways of the old towns, experienced Central Asia’s daily life at the many typical, yet super authentic bazaars, ate a little too much of the mouthwatering cuisine, and had the pleasure of meeting the most friendly people you can imagine, which I proudly display to you through the means of my photography.
To encourage fellow travellers like yourself to discover Uzbekistan’s charm, I’ve put together this Uzbekistan photography story – a collection of my favourite photos taken in Uzbekistan.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee here.
57 photos that will inspire you to visit Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan’s captivating architectural splendour
When it comes to architectural magnificence, Uzbekistan will always be a topic of conversation.
You see, the charm that defines Uzbekistan is greatly due to its cultural heritage, as heaps of Silk Road architectural masterpieces are dotted throughout the alluring old towns of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
When walking the time-worn streets of Uzbekistan’s famous trading cities, you’ll stumble upon majestic madrasas, iconic blue-tiled domes, towering minarets, and trading domes marked by ornamental brickwork, which are a true testament to the bygone Silk Road era.
It is, after all, Uzbekistan’s architectural brilliance, why most photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike visit Uzbekistan in the first place.
The people of Uzbekistan
As with the majority of places in Central Asia, Uzbekistan and hospitality go hand in hand.
With a nomadic lifestyle at heart, the Uzbeki people are all too familiar with roaming unfamiliar territories, so when travellers visit their country, they don’t hesitate to offer a helping hand whenever they can.
To be more precise; they do so with heaps of pride and dignity.
After spending two weeks in Uzbekistan, where I chitchatted with plenty of locals, and experienced genuine day-to-day moments in both the bustling bazaars and lively streets, I felt that the kindness and hospitality of those nomadic traditions are deeply embedded in pretty much every person I’ve met here.
The spices and flavours of Uzbekistan
For me, culinary traditions, locally sourced spices, and the distinctive flavours found in specific parts of the world are key ingredients of my desire to travel this big wide world.
You see, food is a unique expression of the people that make a country, and thus, I firmly believe that delving deep into the local cuisine should be one of the main objectives of your travels.
Some of my favourite dishes I savoured in Uzbekistan include Lula kebab, Laghman, Khiva’s famous Shivit Oshi, Gumma, Manti, and of course all the freshly baked bread – because bread and Uzbekistan are like cheese and wine; inseparable.
In short, indulging in local cuisine is simply one of the best ways to get a feel for a country, its people, and its essence – which is why most people love to travel and explore.
The vibrant everyday life and time-worn streets
While Uzbekistan has heaps of astonishing architectural masterpieces, some of my favourite moments were uncovered on walks around the time-worn streets with my camera in hand.
From wandering the lively bazaars of Bukhara to getting lost in the maze-like streets of Khiva’s remarkable Itchan Kala to the charming squares found in Uzbekistan’s many historic old towns.
There’s just something magical lingering in the air here – something that is truly undeniable and hard to put into words. An authentic moment is never far away, waiting for you to be clicked.
To sum it up, photographers will be amazed by Uzbekistan’s mesmerizing charm.
The travel photography gear that I used in Uzbekistan
As you’ve seen in this photography story, Uzbekistan and its remarkable charm provide exceptional photography opportunities at just about every moment.
If you’re keen to make the most out of your travel photography while uncovering Uzbekistan, I’d advise bringing your sharpest lenses or investing in some upgrades if you haven’t already.
If you like my Uzbekistan photography, this is the gear I used to document my adventures here.
Lumix S5 | For the last two years, I’ve been using the Panasonic Lumix S5, which captures sharp high-quality images, as well as excellent video. While I recently upgraded to the improved S5II, the photos I took in Uzbekistan were all shot on Panasonic’s incredible S5.
SIGMA 24-70 F2.8 | My go-to lens, and basically mounted to my Lumix for 90% of the time, the Sigma 24-70 F2.8 is an absolute beast, as it’s super fast, versatile and sharp.
If you’re curious to learn more about my complete photography setup, make sure you take a look at my ‘What’s in my Camera Bag’ guide here.
Safety in Uzbekistan | Travel insurance
When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I never felt unsafe in Uzbekistan, I advise anyone travelling here to do the same.
While I believe it’s unlikely to experience any problems when following the suggestions in this guide, something unfortunate could happen at any given time, whether it’s an injury, a stolen camera, or an unforeseen cancellation.
For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full COVID-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too.
Cheers!
I’ve been on this travel blogging journey since 2019.
If you appreciate what I do here, these are some ways you can support me.
Plan your Uzbekistan itinerary with these essential guides
52 Wonderful photos that will inspire you to visit Kathmandu in Nepal
I’ve recently spent a long week in Kathmandu to explore it on a slower, more local pace, and I quickly developed a profound adoration for this amazing city, its people and their ways.
Despite the moped madness (Mario Kart is real over here), heavily polluted air, and overall chaotic tendencies that prevail here, Kathmandu and its irresistible charm made me forget about its little quirks effortlessly, which is usually the case in a love story.
Cause that’s what this is.
You see, Kathmandu is a place like no other.
From the vibrant streets and stunning Durbar squares to the many spiritual and religious beliefs that coexist without tension, the mouthwatering culinary offerings, to the ‘City of Temples’ unmatched inhabitants, by who kindness is imprinted deep inside their DNA, Kathmandu is special, and to me, it’s simply impossible to leave without a mild heartbreak.
It is, therefore, that I will keep Kathmandu very close to my heart.
To do justice to the above words, and of course, to inspire fellow travellers like yourself to visit Kathmandu, I share with you my Kathmandu photography story – a collection of 52 of my favourite photos taken in Kathmandu, Nepal.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying a virtual coffee here.
52 Wonderful photos that will inspire you to visit Kathmandu, Nepal in 2024
Kathmandu’s lively streets
To be fair, some of my favourite moments in Kathmandu were found on a roam without a plan when I was simply discovering the vibrant streets with my camera in hand.
Whether you’re strolling through the buzzing streets of Patan, the chaotic Thamel area, or the maze-like laneways of Bakthapur, authentic moments unfold at just about every corner, waiting for you to be captured.
In short, photography enthusiasts will love it over here.
Nepal’s captivating spiritual side
Kathmandu is a melting pot of spiritual and religious diversity, and I’m all for it.
It’s a city home to a wide variety of religious beliefs, and with ten official religions, Nepal has introduced the ‘Freedom of Religion or Belief’ as a foundational right, meaning every human being can practise exactly what beliefs they prefer to align with.
To me, this open-minded, accepting and humble way of respecting one another is exactly what makes Nepal and its people as special as it is – which is extremely special!
The people of Nepal
From the moment I touched down at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, I knew the people in Nepal were different.
With different I mean warm, welcoming and genuinely kind.
It is said that every Nepali is familiar with the following phrase; ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, which translates to ‘Guests equals God’.
After spending 8 days in Kathmandu, where I’ve been hosted by the family of my dear friend Reeju, and experiencing plenty of genuine chats and interactions in the lively streets, I’m convinced that the Nepali people truly live by this mantra.
Nepal’s mouthwatering cuisine
To me, travelling and food go hand in hand, and if there’s one place where the cuisine will elevate your travel experience, it must be Kathmandu.
While the cuisine isn’t as renowned as that found in other Asian countries such as Thailand, India or Indonesia to name a few, I believe the Nepali kitchen is absolutely amazing.
I would even say, it’s up there with my favourite cuisines in the world.
Some of my favourite dishes include Aloo Dum (spicey potato salad), Dal Bhat (a rich lentil soup with rice), and buffalo or chicken Choila (a typical and delicious Newari dish).
You thought I forgot about Momos, didn’t you?
Beware, these stuffed Nepali dumplings are a culinary treasure and will play a crucial part in your days in Kathmandu once you take your first bite.
The gear that I used to capture Nepal
As seen above, Kathmandu and its exceptional charm offer exceptional photography opportunities.
If you’re keen to make the most of travel photography while uncovering Kathmandu, I’d advise bringing your a-game photography gear or investing in some upgrades if you haven’t already.
If you like my Kathmandu photography, this is the gear I used to document my photography story of Nepal.
Lumix S5 | For the last two years, I’ve been using the Panasonic Lumix S5, which captures sharp high-quality images, as well as excellent video. While I recently upgraded to the improved S5II, the photos I took in Nepal were all shot on Panasonic’s incredible S5.
SIGMA 24-70 F2.8 | My go-to lens, and basically mounted to my Lumix for 90% of the time, the Sigma 24-70 F2.8 is an absolute beast, as it’s super fast, versatile and sharp.
If you’re curious to learn more about my complete photography setup, make sure you take a look at my ‘What’s in my Camera Bag’ guide here.
Travel insurance | Stay safe in Nepal
Since most travellers visit Nepal for trekking and outdoor adventures, I’d advise anyone travelling here to sort out reliable travel insurance before setting out on their adventures.
Though we always hope that everything runs smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can always come into play, whether it’s a hiking injury, a stolen camera or an accident on the road.
When it comes to travel insurance, I always use Heymondo, as they offer excellent medical, baggage and Electronic equipment coverage as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you take a look here – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy.
Cheers!
I’ve been on this travel blogging journey since 2019.
If you appreciate what I do here, these are some ways you can support me.
Plan your Nepal adventures with these essential guides
42 Incredible photos that will inspire you to visit Jordan
Here is my photography story of Jordan, an incredible country that captivated me with its unrivalled nature.
In terms of sheer natural beauty, Jordan will always be a topic of conversation.
Jordan holds some of the most impressive natural phenomenons in the world. Think of the moon-like dunes of Wadi Rum, the extraordinary Dead Sea, and Jordan’s largest natural reserve: the Dana Biosphere Reserve.
Yet there is only one thing that comes to a travellers mind when they think of Jordan, and that is the ancient city of Petra. Poised between the dry desert and towering mountains is an ancient Nabatean city, entirely carved out of sandstone, and easily one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever seen.
But Jordan is way more than its number-one attraction. I’ve spent time, wandering through the narrow streets of downtown Amman, I explored the well-preserved remnants of the Roman ruins in Jerash, and roamed around the rippled sand dunes of Wadi Rum, all with camera in hand.
To present the best possible look and feel of this captivating country, I share with you my Jordan photography story – a collection of 42 photos that inspire you to visit Jordan.
42 PHOTOS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT JORDAN
THE ANCIENT CITY OF PETRA AND SURROUNDS
Only a few UNESCO heritage sites come close to the ancient city of Petra in terms of mysterious, ancient structures.
The charm that defines Petra is realized by ancient temples, carved out of red-rose sandstone, and despite the crowds, it’s one of the most exhilarating things to see on a Jordan itinerary.
THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF DOWNTOWN AMMAN
Downtown Amman has no shortage of rustic, narrow laneways, bustling bazaars, the characteristic smell of fresh herbs & spices, and the most impressive points of interest – a true delight to any curious wanderer.
At first, the city felt pretty overwhelming, but once I got my bearings, Amman slowly revealed that it holds beauty around every corner.
Make sure you’ll give Amman a well-deserved chance before travelling to your next destination – the city has a great number of impressive things to see and do.
THE DEAD SEA, JORDAN’S UNIQUE NATURAL PHENOMENON
The Dead Sea is one of the most fascinating encounters between land and sea, yet it is something else that makes the sea so unique.
With almost 10 times the amount of salt as the ocean, the Dead Sea is often referred to as an extraordinary natural phenomenon.
As a result of the high salinity, travellers get invited to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the chance to float on the water of the Dead Sea. What more can I say?
THE MOON-LIKE DUNES OF WADI RUM
Situated in the midst of the Arabian desert is the Wadi Rum, a majestic, extensive scenery that is famed for its red rippled sand dunes and enormous, scenic rock formations.
If you’re in for an off the beaten path adventure, jump aboard a jeep and roam around the iconic Wadi Rum desert, which is often called ‘The Valley of the Moon’.
To me, Wadi Rum is unrivalled regarding sheer natural beauty, and one of the most unearthly sceneries in the world.
THE ROMAN RUINS OF JERASH
Known today as the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy is Jerash: an ancient archaeological site that is incredibly picturesque and definitely worthy of your visit.
Jerash is in fact, the second most popular site in Jordan, right after Petra.
Make sure you visit the ruins of Jerash as a day trip from Amman – it’s only a 1-hour drive and trust me, it won’t disappoint.
THE TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR THAT I USED IN JORDAN
Jordan’s natural beauty is unrivalled, and if you want to make the most of your travel photography while exploring Jordan, I’d recommend investing in some serious photography gear.
If you like my travel photography, this is the gear I used the document my Jordan photography story.
Lumix G85 | The Lumix G85 captures excellent photos and video – plus it doesn’t break the bank.
SIGMA 16mm, F1.4 | The SIGMA 16mm is well-known for its excellent depth of field and is one of the best budget prime lenses on the market.
DJI Mavic Air | The DJI Mavic Air is a brilliant drone that is compact and produces the most incredible aerial footage. In my opinion, the perfect combination to document travel photography.
Although flying a drone in Jordan is legal, do keep in mind to follow the official regulations.
PLAN YOUR JORDAN ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
46 Stunning photos that will inspire you to visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an extremely photogenic country that has many stories to tell. This is my Sri Lanka photography story, with 46 of my favourite photos from a month spent exploring this charming island in the Indian ocean.
Ask any travel enthusiast who visited Sri Lanka and they’ll all agree on this – photography and Sri Lanka are like a passport and travelling, inseparable and made for each other.
Sri Lanka is incredibly picturesque and I’m still extremely grateful that I was fortunate enough to spend a full month exploring this extraordinary country.
I spent time, wandering along exotic palm-fringed beaches on both the south and east coast, went on an early morning safari in the dense, wildlife-rich jungles of the Yala National Park, and visited magnificent ancient World Heritage sites in Kandy, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.
It is, therefore, no surprise that Sri Lanka became one of my favourite destinations in the world. I want you to see and feel what I experienced during this amazing trip, so here are 46 photos that will clearly inspire you to visit Sri Lanka.
46 STUNNING PHOTOS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT SRI LANKA
THE PEOPLE OF SRI LANKA
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Genuine. Friendly.
These two words come to mind when I think of all the warmhearted people I’ve had the pleasure to meet during my 4 weeks in Sri Lanka.
One of the goals I’d set for my trip through Sri Lanka was figuring out how to shoot portraits while creating a deeper connection with the local people.
Being brave enough to ask for someone’s portrait is quite a challenge at times, but that simply wasn’t the case in Sri Lanka. The people here are one of the friendliest in the world and do everything in their power to make sure you feel welcome. Don’t be shy to start a chat, it’s one of the best possible experiences in Sri Lanka.
The abundance of kindness and positive energy is one of the many reasons why Sri Lanka will always hold a special place in my heart.
SRI LANKA’S PALM-FRINGED BEACHES
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It is no longer a secret that Sri Lanka has some of the best palm-fringed beaches in the world.
Along Sri Lanka’s entire coastline, you’ll find popular beach towns that provide excellent surf breaks, trendy cafés and a charming backpacker atmosphere. Sri Lanka is quickly becoming a fixture for travellers from all over the world, and that’s for a good reason.
From Unawatuna and Mirissa down south to Arugam Bay and Trincomalee on the island’s untouched east coast, it’s merely impossible to go wrong in Sri Lanka.
SRI LANKA’S OUTSTANDING NATURAL SCENERIES
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Sri Lanka is a tiny teardrop-shaped island in the midst of the Indian Ocean which despite its size, has no shortage of outstanding natural sceneries.
It is safe to say that being around Sri Lanka’s natural beauty had a therapeutic effect on both my body and mind. The sceneries are utterly sensational; the Ancient Rock Fortress in Sigiriya, the lush, peaceful hills of Ella and the dense jungles of the Yala National Park, just to mention a few.
Sri Lanka is one of those countries that stands out in all aspects. The country’s many natural highlights are unique and without doubt, something that will blow your mind.
SRI LANKA’S CULTURAL BEAUTY
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Influenced by many, yet extremely authentic and distinct. Sri Lanka has an amazing culture that is shaped by several influencing eras throughout the country’s rich history.
Religion, colonial occupation and the production of tea have been the primary influences, while neighbouring India also played an essential role in the development of contemporary Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s culture is deeply influenced by its religion, which translates in ancient Buddhist cities, brightly coloured Hindu temples, artistic mosques and you will even encounter ornate Christian churches.
In other words, there’s no shortage of incredible World Heritage sites, among which you’ll notice Kandy – the city of kings, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Sigiriya rock fortress and the Dutch Galle Fort – which was fortunate enough to survive the boxing day tsunami in 2004.
THE TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR THAT I USED IN SRI LANKA
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As mentioned above, Sri Lanka is extremely photogenic. If you want to make the most of your travel photography while exploring Sri Lanka, I’d recommend investing in some serious photography gear.
If you like my photography, this is the gear that I used to document my photography story of Sri Lanka.
Lumix G85 | The Lumix G85 captures excellent photos and video – plus it doesn’t break the bank.
SIGMA 16mm, F1.4 | The SIGMA 16mm is well-known for its excellent depth of field and is one of the best budget prime lenses on the market.
DJI Mavic Air | The DJI Mavic Air is a brilliant drone that is compact and produces the most incredible aerial footage. In my opinion, the perfect combination to document travel photography.
PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
