Historic site
Itchan Kala
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Itchan Kala, the walled inner town of Khiva, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that transports visitors back to the Silk Road era. Within its mud-brick walls, you'll find a dense collection of historic mosques, madrasahs, and palaces, including the towering Islam Khodja Minaret and the ornate Tash-Hauli Palace. Walking its narrow streets, you can explore centuries-old architecture, browse artisan workshops, and experience the preserved atmosphere of a medieval Islamic city. The site's authenticity and concentration of monuments make it one of Central Asia's most remarkable historic centers.
Don't miss
- Climb the Islam Khodja Minaret for panoramic views of the old city and surrounding desert.
- Explore the Tash-Hauli Palace, with its intricate tilework, carved wooden columns, and royal courtyards.
- Visit the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, now a hotel, to see its grand facade and central courtyard.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Itchan Kala
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inOld Khiva Stories with Your Local Guide4.9★ · 15 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →
Most bookedKhiva Historical City Highlights Guided Walking Tour4.8★ · 53 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleBest of Khiva: Exclusive Private Tour!5★ · 14 travelers5–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$86 per personSee dates →More attractions in Khiva