Shaykhantakhur: Tashkent's Cultural Gem

• HelloSalom
  [sa-lom]
• GoodbyeXayr
  [khayr]
• YesHa
  [ha]
• NoYo'q
  [yo'q]
• Please/You're welcomeMarhamat
  [mar-ha-mat]
• Thank youRahmat
  [rah-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryKechirasiz
  [ke-chi-ra-siz]
• How are you?Qalaysiz?
  [qa-lay-siz]
• Fine. And you?Yaxshi. Sizcha?
  [ya-khshi. siz-cha]
• Do you speak English?Ingliz tilini bilasizmi?
  [ing-liz ti-li-ni bi-la-siz-mi]
• I don't understandTushunmadim
  [tu-shun-ma-dim]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenyuni ko'rishni hohlaysiz, iltimos
  [me-nyu-ni ko-rish-ni khokh-la-y-siz, il-ti-mos]
• I don't eat meatMen go'sht yemayman
  [men gosh-t ye-may-man]
• Cheers!Salomatliklar!
  [sa-lo-mat-lik-lar]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTo'lashni hohlaysiz, iltimos
  [to-la-shni kho-khla-y-siz, il-ti-mos]

• Help!Yordam!
  [yor-dam]
• Go away!Uzoqqa ket!
  [u-zoq-qa ket]
• Call the Police!Militsiyani chaqiring!
  [mi-li-tsi-ya-ni cha-qi-ring]
• Call a doctor!Shifokor chaqiring!
  [shi-fo-kor cha-qi-ring]
• I'm lostMen yo'limni yo'q qildim
  [men yo-lim-ni yoq qil-dim]
• I'm illMen kasalman
  [men ka-sal-man]

• I'd like to buy....... sotib olmoqchiman
  [sotib ol-moq-chi-man]
• I'm just lookingMen faqat ko'z qarashi qilaman
  [men fa-qat koz qa-ra-shi qi-la-man]
• How much is it?Bu qancha?
  [bu qan-cha]
• That's too expensiveBu juda qimmat
  [bu ju-da qim-mat]
• Can you lower the price?Narxni pastga olib ketsangiz bo'ladi
  [nar-kni past-ga o-lib ket-san-giz bo-la-di]

• What time is it?Soat nechada?
  [so-at ne-cha-da]
• It's one o'clockBir soat
  [bir so-at]
• Half past (10)O'ngan olti
  [o-ngan ol-ti]
• MorningErtalab
  [er-ta-lab]
• AfternoonTushlik
  [tush-lik]
• EveningKech
  [kech]
• YesterdayKecha
  [ke-cha]
• TodayBugun
  [bu-gun]
• TomorrowErtaga
  [er-ta-ga]
• 1Bir
  [bir]
• 2Ikki
  [ik-ki]
• 3Uch
  [uch]
• 4To'rt
  [to-rt]
• 5Besh
  [besh]
• 6Olti
  [ol-ti]
• 7Yetti
  [yet-ti]
• 8Sakkiz
  [sak-kiz]
• 9To'qqiz
  [toq-qiz]
• 10O'n
  [on]

• Where's a/the...?... qayerda?
  [qaye-da]
• What's the address?Manzili qanaqa?
  [man-zi-li qa-na-qa]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Meni (xaritada) ko'rsatingiz mumkinmi?
  [me-ni khar-i-ta-da korsa-tin-giz mum-kin-mi]
• When's the next (bus)?Keyingi (avtobus) qachon?
  [key-in-gi av-to-bus qa-cho]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilet (.... uchun)
  [bi-let u-chun]

Shaykhantakhur, one of Tashkent's oldest neighborhoods, has deep historical roots dating back to the early Islamic period. The name itself, which translates to 'the place of the Sheikh', denotes its importance as a spiritual center. It became a hub for scholars and Sufi mystics, contributing to the rich tapestry of Islamic culture in Central Asia.

With the Arab conquest in the 8th century, Shaykhantakhur became a focal point for the spread of Islam in the region. This neighborhood was home to early mosques and madrasahs, establishing it as a significant educational and religious site. The architectural influences from this period can still be observed in various structures scattered throughout Tashkent.

The Shaykhantakhur Mosque, built in the 19th century, stands as a testament to the neighborhood's religious heritage. It features intricate tile work and a stunning courtyard, attracting both worshippers and tourists. The mosque has been a central part of community life, hosting ceremonies and gatherings that reinforce the neighborhood's cultural identity.

During the Soviet era, Shaykhantakhur underwent significant changes as the government sought to modernize Tashkent. Many historical buildings were repurposed or destroyed, but some remnants of its rich past remain. The Soviet approach to urban planning introduced new infrastructure while often sidelining the neighborhood's historic character.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in preserving the cultural heritage of Shaykhantakhur. Efforts to restore historical sites and promote tourism have highlighted the neighborhood's significance within Tashkent. Cultural festivals and events celebrate the area's rich traditions, showcasing its unique blend of history and modernity.

Shaykhantakhur is conveniently located in the eastern part of Tashkent, making it accessible from various neighborhoods. You can take the metro to the Shaykhantakhur station on the O'zbekiston line, which connects to major areas. Additionally, buses and taxis are widely available; just ask for a ride to Shaykhantakhur or use a rideshare app. From the city center, a taxi ride typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Shaykhantakhur is well-served by public transport, including buses and the metro. The metro system is efficient and connects to other neighborhoods, while local buses (marshrutkas) cover routes throughout the area. For a more leisurely option, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the neighborhood's parks and local sights. Walking is also a pleasant way to take in the surroundings.

Shaykhantakhur is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated streets and be cautious of your belongings. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in busy markets. Areas near the major bus terminals can be a bit sketchy, so exercise caution there.

In case of an emergency, dial 101 for police, 103 for medical assistance, or 112 for fire services. Keep the contact information of your country's embassy handy, as they can assist in case of serious issues. Pharmacies are available throughout Shaykhantakhur for minor health concerns; ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in the presence of religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers; don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; avoid overly casual gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations; don’t refuse food, as this is seen as impolite.

To experience Shaykhantakhur like a local, visit the bustling markets where fresh produce and local crafts are sold. Engage with shopkeepers and try traditional snacks. Visiting local tea houses is also a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. If you have time, check out the nearby parks for a peaceful escape from the urban hustle, and don't miss the chance to try plov (rice pilaf), a national dish.