Things To Do
in Kimyogarlar

Kimyogarlar is a small town in Uzbekistan's Samarkand region, tucked along the Zerafshan River valley. The town blends traditional crafts with warm hospitality and a relaxed rural pace. Visitors can wander the local bazaar, watch artisans at work, and sample flavorful Uzbek dishes in family-run eateries.

Surrounded by farmland and gentle hills, it's an ideal base for day trips to Silk Road towns and scenic valleys.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Tashkent's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Khast Imam Complex, where you can admire the intricate tilework and religious significance of the site. Afterward, stroll through the lush Amir Timur Square, enjoying the fresh morning air and vibrant atmosphere. End your morning by tasting traditional Uzbek pastries at a local café.

afternoon
:

Experience the rich history of Uzbekistan at the State Museum of History, housing a vast collection of artifacts. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk through the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, where you can interact with friendly vendors and sample local delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy some authentic crafts as souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, savor a traditional Uzbek meal in a cozy restaurant, where you can try plov, the country's iconic dish. Enjoy the ambiance of live music while indulging in a warm cup of chai. Conclude your day by watching the city lights illuminate the beautiful architecture of Tashkent.

day 2
Cultural Immersion in Samarkand
morning
:

Travel to Samarkand and kick off your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Registan Square, with its towering madrasahs and intricate mosaics. Take in the beauty of the architecture and learn about the rich history of this Silk Road city. A hearty breakfast at a nearby café will prepare you for a day of exploration.

afternoon
:

Visit the majestic Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning collection of mausoleums that showcase breathtaking tile work. Spend time appreciating the artistic details and the peaceful atmosphere of the site. Afterward, head to the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest in the world, for a taste of its grandeur.

evening
:

Engage in a delightful dinner experience, enjoying local specialties in a traditional setting. Take a leisurely evening stroll along the Silk Road, relishing the charm of twinkling lights reflecting off the ancient buildings. Consider attending a cultural performance to immerse yourself in local music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee/Tea$0.5-2
🏨Budget hotel room (per night)$25-50
🚕Local taxi ride$2-5
🧺Groceries and snacks$5-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic Uzbek town experience away from big-city crowds
  • Warm hospitality and access to Silk Road-inspired day trips
  • Limited nightlife and modern tourist infrastructure
  • Fewer upscale dining or shopping options compared to Samarkand or Tashkent
  • "Assalomu alaykum" - Hello
  • "Xush kelibsiz" - Welcome
  • "Iltimos" - Please
  • "Rahmat" - Thank you
  • "Bu necha?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Kimyogarlar

Visit one of these nice places.

Kimyogarlar Bazaar at Dawn

Colorful stalls with spices, herbs, breads, and textiles, captured in soft morning light.

Zerafshan River Viewpoint

A serene overlook of the river valley with farm fields and distant hills at golden hour.

Local Dye Workshop

Cloth-dyeing in natural pigments; vibrant fabrics and sample looms make vivid subject matter.

Old Caravanserai Ruins (Nearby town)

Rugged stones and quiet courtyards evoke Silk Road history; best at midday or sunset for warm light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kimyogarlar

Uzbek cuisine here features hearty meat dishes, rice pilaf, dumplings, and bread baked in clay ovens. Fresh herbs, yogurt, and choy (green tea) accompany most meals.

Kimyogarlar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Plov (Uzbek Pilaf)

The staple rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, onions, and spices. Best found at the town’s family-run eateries and markets.

Must-Try!

Manty

Steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions; commonly served with sour cream or tomato sauce.

Samsa

Savory pastries filled with meat or pumpkin, baked in clay ovens in local bakeries.

Shurpa

A rich meat and vegetable soup to warm up cooler days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kimyogarlar Bazaar

Daily market with fresh produce, herbs, baked bread, and snacks. Look for local greens, yogurt, and dried fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kimyogarlar experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, while summer can bring extreme heat and winter frosts.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress and Behavior

Dress modestly, especially around religious sites; ask before photographing people; greet with a warm 'Assalomu alaykum'.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise standard travel caution: watch belongings in markets, use reliable transport, and stay hydrated in summer. Seek local advice for safety around night travel and road conditions.

Tipping in Kimyogarlar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are customary for good service in cafes, guesthouses, and guides (about 5-10%).

Payment Methods

Cash in Uzbek soms is most widely used; some larger places accept cards or mobile payments in Samarkand or Margilan, but carry cash for town transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days (often 30-38°C); carry water, sun protection, and light clothing. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold with possible frosts; some roads can be icy. Pack warm layers and a windproof jacket.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for walks and photography.

Autumn

Pleasant weather with harvest colors; ideal for market visits and scenic drives.

Nightlife Guide

Kimyogarlar at Night

The nightlife in Kimyogarlar is low-key, centered on tea houses, family gatherings, and small music evenings. In nearby towns like Samarkand, you’ll find more varied options, including cafes with live performances and occasional clubs.

Hiking in Kimyogarlar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zerafshan River Valley Trail

A scenic, moderate hike along the Zerafshan River with views of farmland and distant mountains.

Hill Outlook Walk

A short loop near the hillside edges offering sunset views and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Kimyogarlar by plane.

Samarkand International Airport (SKD)

Closest major airport; about 45–90 minutes by road to Kimyogarlar depending on traffic; routes to Tashkent, Moscow, Istanbul, and regional connections.

Tashkent International Airport (TAS)

Larger international hub about 4-5 hours by road; useful for international connections and onward domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kimyogarlar is a compact town with a walkable center. The main bazaar and crafts streets are easily explored on foot, while rural outskirts and nearby sights may require a short vehicle ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic/Religious Groups

Predominantly Uzbek with minority Tajik and Russian communities in some areas; rural family-oriented communities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Most popular team and casual games among locals; watch matches in town or join a pickup game.

Traditional Wrestling (Kurash)

A regional sport with cultural significance; demonstrations can be found during festivals.

Chess

A common pastime in teahouses and clubs; approach local players for a game.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is moderate in town with a mix of cars, motorcycles, and walking. Public transport is limited; taxis, ride-hailing, and marshrutkas (shared minibuses) connect to nearby towns. Roads to surrounding regions are mostly paved but can have seasonal wear.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kimyogarlar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarians can rely on vegetable plov, lentil dishes, fresh salads, yogurt, and bread. In many eateries, you can request dairy-based or legume sides; avoid heavy meat broths and seek places with mushroom or lentil options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are basic in town; for major care, travelers typically go to Samarkand or Margilan which have clinics and hospitals. Carry any essential medications and travel insurance.

Discover Uzbekistan

Read more in our Uzbekistan 2025 Travel Guide.

Uzbekistan Travel Guide