Shah-i-Zinda: The Eternal Sacred Place
Discover the architectural marvels and sacred atmosphere of Shah-i-Zinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Shah-i-Zinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, is a breathtaking necropolis renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work. This historical landmark invites tourists to explore its serene atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Shah-i-Zinda
- MX7Q+257, M-37, Samarkand, Samarqand Region, UZ
- +998712335382
- Monday 7 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7 am-10 pm
- Friday 7 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10 pm
- Sunday 7 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the intricate pathways and numerous mausoleums.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning tile work and architecture, especially during golden hour.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Respect the sacred nature of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor and be mindful of local customs.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Shakhrisabz, head towards the main road, M-37. Walk east along the road. You will pass by several shops and local vendors. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with the road leading to Samarkand. At this intersection, you will see signs for Shah-i-Zinda. Follow the signs and continue on M-37 for about 3 kilometers. You will know you are nearing the site when you see large historical buildings and a crowd of visitors. The entrance to Shah-i-Zinda will be on your right.
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Local Bus or Minivan
From the main square in Shakhrisabz, locate the bus stop where local buses depart. Look for buses or minivans heading towards Samarkand. Board the bus and inform the driver that you want to get off at Shah-i-Zinda. The journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes. The driver will drop you off at the closest stop to Shah-i-Zinda, and from there, you will see the entrance within a short walking distance.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer to cycle, rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Shakhrisabz. Start your ride towards M-37, heading east. Follow the same route as for walking, cycling along the roadside for about 4 kilometers. There are designated bike lanes in parts, but be cautious of traffic. Once you spot the entrance to Shah-i-Zinda on your right, you can park your bike at the designated area and enjoy your visit.
Discover more about Shah-i-Zinda
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Noma'lum Kishi Maqbarasi
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Usto ali nesefi mausoleum
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Kazi-Zade Rumi Mausoleum
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Makhsum Baba Mausoleum
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Mausoleum of Islam Karimov
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Samarkand Tourist Information Center
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Afrosiyab Settlement
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Chokartiza
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Shaybanid's Memorial Dakhma
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Art Gallery Dusmatboy
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ticket office
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Pamyatnik Narodnym Bakhshi-Poetam
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Imon Mosque
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Sadriddin Ayni Square
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Ancient cemetery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Shirin Beka Oka Mausoleum
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Shodi mulk oka mausoleum
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Kusam-ibn-Abbas mausoleum
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Shahi Zinda Elite Cemetery
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President's Tomb
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Hazrat Khizr Mosque
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Gumbaz Synagogue
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Bibi Khanym Mausoleum
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Samarkand Liquor Store
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"Kyzyl Chaihana" ("Qizil Choyxona")
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Ahmad’s bread tour (since 1960s)
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Karabay Aksakal Mosque
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Siyob Bozor
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Bibi-Khanym Mosque
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Afrasiyab Settlement Site
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Essential places to dine
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Minaret
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Ikat Boutiques Cafe & Restaurant
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Samarkandskiy Plov
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Zargaron Restaurant
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Bibikhanum Teahouse
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OLD HAVUZ by Shashlik.uz
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Emirhan restaurant
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Shokhrukh Nur
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Registan Restaurant & Cafe
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Cafe Punjab Official
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Ibrahim xoja Lagmon
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Shoxjaxon Milliy Taomlar
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Restoran Zilol Bakht
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Khan Ahmad Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Haydar's Antique Shop & Flea Market
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Choychana Mubarak
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Siap Bolzor
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Milliy Liboslar Art Shop
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Shodiyona Shopping Center
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Bibikhanum Art Shop
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Sovgalar magazin safran
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Handicraft center - Центр Ремесленников
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Дисуз бутик
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Сувениры в Самарканде
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Abduljalil Calligraphy
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Magazin
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Magazin Sladosti
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Souvenirs
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Ulitsa Namozgokh
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BEER MARKET
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Sam Craft PUB
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Sam Craft
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XLarge Karaoke Bar
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Voice
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Rubai Bar
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Bassiani night club
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Mankhetton Bar
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5th avenue
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Beer Street Pub
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Beer Essen Bar
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Green Bear Bar
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Bochka
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Rayskiy Ugolok
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Dastan Bar
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