2. Watch over the old town from the watchtower at Khuna Ark

Once the residence of Khiva’s rulers, Khuna Ark stands as a symbol of power, wealth and protection, and was basically built as a fortified stronghold within an already fortified town.

First constructed in the 12th century in the order of Ok Shaykh Bobo, then further evolved under the Khans in the 17th century, Khuna Ark is still very much a place of great significance, with several noteworthy buildings one can behold.

Today, much of Khuna Ark’s structures date back to the reign of Arang Muhammad Khan.

Even though Kuhna Ark is stunningly beautiful as a whole, there’s one particular point of call that truly draws the attention here; the Ak-Sheikh Bobo watchtower.

You see, watching over Itchan Kala from the watchtower, was in many ways, one of my absolute favourite things to do in Khiva, as the panorama views from the top are nothing short of amazing.

Planning-wise, I’d highly advise trying to get to the watchtower an hour before sunset, so you have a clear indication of your surroundings, which makes it easier to find the ideal spot from which you’ll witness the golden hour light up Khiva’s intricate turquoise-domed mosques, towering minarets, and iconic mudbrick structures.

3. Visit the Jumaa Mosque – the Friday Mosque

Built right on top of the ruins of an older mosque, the Jumaa Mosque, also known as the Friday Mosque is a stunning mosque that provides an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle often found in the laneways of Itchan Kala.

For me, the best thing about the Jumaa Mosque is the fact that it doesn’t look like anything noteworthy from the outside, given its ordinary mudbrick walls give little away in contrast to other more opulent mosques found in Uzbekistan.

Yet stepping inside instantly reveals why the Jumaa Mosque is as remarkable as it is.

Made up of anywhere between 212 and 218 wooden columns (I can’t state the exact number), aligned in a way commonly done in ancient Arabian mosques, this mosque is simple, minimal, yet truly mesmerising – there’s just something magical about the perfectly aligned columns and the play of light they produce.

The columns themselves are carved to perfection by hand, each representing intricate patterns reflecting different periods in time, some of which have been there since the Mosque’s origins in the 10th century. 

As one of the best things to do in Khiva, I’d recommend visiting the mosque first thing in the morning, when the peace that defines Jumaa triumphs, and masses of tourists have yet to arrive.

4. Take a look at Suleymon’s wood carvings store

One thing that starts to intrigue me more and more during my travels, is getting to witness amazing local craftsman go about their business.

So when I stumbled upon a small wood carving store in the backstreets of Khiva’s stunning Itchan Kala, I was super excited to see the artisanal process of traditional Uzbek woodcarving up close and personal.

With a background in carpentry myself, I naturally get drawn to this form of art, and when Suleymon kindly invited me into his store, I somewhat relived my brief time as an artisanal woodworker.

You see, Suleymon dedicated a fair share of his life to his craft, which resulted in an insanely high level of craftsmanship, and in turn, the most stunning wood-carved objects, each completely unique and defined by exceptional craftsmanship.

But Suleymon’s wood carving store is not just a great place to learn traditional Uzbek wood carving techniques; it is also the perfect place to buy a unique souvenir or a gift for your loved ones, which is exactly what I did myself.

5. Admire the intricate decorations of the Tash Hauli Palace

Built as the residence of Allakuli Khan, this palace had one clear objective; to outshine every other palace in Central Asia, which it managed to do pretty well if you ask me.

With intricately painted ceilings, stunning geometric patterns, and a vibrant colour palette on just about everything that is touched by the light, the Tash Hauli Palace is as pretty as any I’ve visited in Uzbekistan.

Exploring the Tash Hauli Palace is a great opportunity to step into the lavish world of Khiva’s prosperous, royal past, as it displays breathtaking artistry and architecture throughout the palace.

Something to keep your eye out for are the complex, yet beautifully decorated ceilings, as each design reflects the magnificent craftsmanship of the hands that created them.

The palace is absolutely impeccable, and its mix of ornate architecture and the calm nature found in its open-air courtyards make for the perfect escape from Khiva’s lively alleyways.

6. Spend a night in the Orient Star Hotel

To wander around the time-worn grounds of an ancient madrasa is one thing, but having the chance to spend a night in such a place is a completely different experience.

Luckily for you, the 19th-century Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa has now been transformed into Khiva’s most unique hotel, and for me, spending a night here is easily one of the most exciting things to do in Khiva.

In many ways, staying here is like stepping back in time, as the walls around you share and reflect centuries of Khiva’s fascinating history.   

Each room is stunning, mostly original and decorated with furniture that doesn’t only compliment the architectural features but also respects the deeply ingrained roots of the madrasa, preventing it from losing its initial charm.

But it is more than simply a place to rest your head, it’s a unique experience that offers a journey into the past, and we should be honoured that we can spend time here.

Its location smack-bang in the heart of Itchan Kala adds to its charm, with the old town right at your doorstep, making Orient Star the perfect base from which to explore Khiva.

7.  Admire the Kalta Minor Minaret

Supposed to become the tallest minaret in Uzbekistan, the Kalta Minor Minaret is unlike other minarets in Uzbekistan, as it was left unfinished due to the sudden death of its initiator Muhammad Amin Khan in 1855.

You see, the base of the minaret, with its 14-meter diameter, was designed so that it was sturdy enough to carry a minaret of an impressive height anywhere between 70 and 110 meters.

Sadly, construction stopped at merely 29 meters, which makes the Kalta Minor Minaret look somewhat comparable to a bodybuilder during the offseason – at least, that’s what I thought when I first witnessed it in person.

All jokes aside, the Kalta Minor Minaret might be far and away from the length it was initially planned to be, but this doesn’t mean it isn’t spectacular.

It is in fact one of the best examples of Uzbekistan’s architectural brilliance, displaying stunning, intricate geometric patterns, while also embodying a captivating story of ambition and prosperity.

Today, Kalta Minor has become one of Khiva’s most iconic landmarks, partly thanks to its history and unusual appearance.

It’s easy to say; imagine how impressive it would have been if it was finished as initiated, but maybe it’s the above story that makes it as captivating as it is – something we’ll never truly know.

8. Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum

Set within the time-worn streets of Itchan Kala is the breathtaking Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece that serves as the final resting place of one of Khiva’s most cherished individuals; Pahlavon Mahmud – a legendary poet, philosopher, wrestler, and patron saint of Khiva.

Defined by its iconic turquoise-tiled dome, this breathtaking mausoleum is insanely beautiful from the inside out, with the intricate interior as its absolute centrepiece.

As soon as you set foot within the Mausoleum, you will be stunned by the most ornate 14th-century Khorezm artistry; think floor-to-ceiling tile work, opulent chandeliers, fascinating woodwork, and an extremely calm and serene atmosphere.

Today, the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum also serves as a spiritual retreat for Sufi pilgrims, with a khanaka for those who seek spiritual solace and guidance.

As always, it’s quintessential to adhere to religious customs, so make sure you take off your shoes while entering the mausoleum, dress appropriately, and be calm and quiet.

It is worth mentioning that the entrance fee to the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum is not included in the regular Itchan Kala ticket. But as one of the absolute best things to do in Khiva, I’d advise you to take that lightly.

9. Have a coffee with a view at Terassa

Those who have been visiting Where the Souls Wander more regularly will know how much I go out and about to get my hands on a good cup of coffee.

While I have to be honest that coffee and Uzbekistan are not the best of combinations, my coffee at Terassa was actually a lot better than most of the cups I had during my time travelling in Uzbekistan.

Of course, it would be a mistake to expect top-notch speciality coffee in a country that has only become familiar with drinking coffee over the last few years – not to mention the deeply rooted tradition and cultural aspects Uzbeks have with the drinking of tea.

But I was left surprised in the positive sense of the word.

Not sure, if this had anything to do with the incredible views obtained from the Terrace here,   which adds a significant amount of extra charm to the experience – it was a welcoming break from the hotel room instant coffees I drank until this point.

You see, Terassa has one of the best views in Itchan Kala, making it an absolutely charming spot to sit down, relax, and watch the world go by while enjoying a good cup of coffee. Don’t forget to grab a mouthwatering Baklava on the side – you won’t regret it.

10. Take in the views from the Khoja Minaret

Standing tall and proud above the maze-like laneways of Itchan Kala, the Islam Khoja Minaret, with an impressive height of roughly 56 metres, dominates the skyline of Khiva.

Of course, admiring it from ground level is already something quite special, but to me, climbing the 175 steps to admire Khiva from the top is something different.

You see, as the tallest minaret in the whole of Uzbekistan, and also one of the most charming ones, the Islam Khoja Minaret provides a truly breathtaking panoramic view.

While for some, the ascent to the top can be a bit of a challenge, conquering the winding, narrow staircase to the top is definitely a rewarding one

From atop, you will be reminded of Itchan Kala’s ongoing legacy as a cultural, historical and architectural masterpiece, as its magnificence down below surrounds you from all directions.

But as with most structures in Uzbekistan, the Khoja Minaret is merely one element of a larger complex, in this case, the Islam Khoja Madrasah, which, unlike other complexes in Khiva, is relatively new given its foundations only originated in the year 1908.

Though not as old and historical as its counterparts, the Islam Khoja Madrasah is truly gorgeous, and the region’s iconic mix of blue, turquoise and white tilework makes it blend in seamlessly with the appearance of its older peers.

11. Take a stroll through the bazaar

Taking a stroll through Khiva’s lively bazaar is in many ways as if you’re stepping back in time.

Being the centrepiece of all things trade, crafts and culture for centuries, the hustle and bustle found between the endless myriad of market stalls of the Khiva bazaar bring a lively and charming feel to Itchan Kala’s streets. One that I imagine, reflects the unique ambience that prevailed here when Khiva was deemed a major trading hub along the ancient trading route.

At present, Khiva’s bazaar is known for its artisanal craftsmanship, and accordingly, lots of interesting handicrafts are found here, which makes it a great place to pick up a traditional Uzbeki souvenir for either yourself or a loved one.

Just about everything is found right here; from traditional clothing to handwoven carpets, from intricately crafted wooden pen boxes to colourful ceramics, and last but not least; fur stuffed camels – which, of course, I had to bring back home as a gift to my little nieces.

Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or simply wish to take in the lively atmosphere, I believe a roam around the bazaar is truly great and the perfect way to get a feel for Khiva and it’s people.

It is worth mentioning, that I’m referring to the bazaar found in Itchan Kala, instead of the one outside of the historical city walls.