When most travelers think of Uzbekistan, the ancient Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva immediately come to mind. These historical hubs are indeed spectacular, but Uzbekistan has much more to offer. Several lesser-known cities are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty — making them worthy of any traveler’s itinerary.
Kokand
Located in the lush and fertile Fergana Valley, Kokand was once the capital of the Kokand Khanate and remains a symbol of the region's cultural and political heritage. The city boasts remarkable Islamic architecture, including the Palace of Khudayar Khan, built in the 19th century with intricate tilework and over 100 rooms. Kokand is also a center of traditional crafts, particularly wood carving and silk production.
Why visit: fewer tourists, authentic Central Asian hospitality, and a chance to explore a historical seat of power that rivaled Bukhara.
Termez
Located on the Afghan border along the Amu Darya River, Termez is one of Uzbekistan’s oldest cities, with roots dating back over 2500 years. Once a flourishing center of Greco-Buddhist culture, it played a key role in the spread of Buddhism to East Asia. Visitors can explore ruins of ancient monasteries like Kara-Tepe and Fayaz-Tepe, as well as the Kirk-Kiz fortress, thought to be an aristocratic residence or caravanserai.
Why visit: unique blend of Buddhist, Islamic, and Hellenistic history rarely found elsewhere in Central Asia.
Nukus
Far removed from the main tourist trail, Nukus is the capital of the autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan in western Uzbekistan. The city is famous for the Savitsky Museum, often dubbed the “Louvre of the Steppe.” It houses one of the world’s largest collections of Russian avant-garde art — most of which was banned in the Soviet Union.
Why visit: a surreal art experience, Soviet-era architecture, and a chance to explore the surrounding desert landscapes, including the environmental tragedy of the Aral Sea.
Shahrisabz
Just a few hours from Samarkand, Shahrisabz is often overshadowed by its larger neighbor but holds tremendous historical importance. It was the birthplace of Amir Timur, the 14th-century conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire. The city’s key attraction, the Ak-Saray Palace, was built by Timur himself, with parts of its monumental entrance arch still standing.
Why visit: rich Timurid architecture with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace than Samarkand.
Margilan
In the heart of the Fergana Valley lies Margilan, Uzbekistan’s traditional silk-weaving capital. The city’s Yodgorlik Silk Factory still produces hand-dyed and handwoven ikat fabrics, preserving centuries-old techniques. Margilan’s bazaars are vibrant and local, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of this artisan city.
Why visit: deep dive into Uzbekistan’s textile traditions and a chance to shop for high-quality silk at its source.