Things To Do
in Xovos
Xovos is a quiet town in central Uzbekistan, positioned in the Jizzakh region along the Zarafshan corridor. It's known for a friendly, approachable community and a slow-paced rhythm that makes it easy to explore on foot. Historic mosques, a compact bazaar, and rural scenery frame daily life here.
As a base for exploring nearby valleys and foothills, Xovos offers authentic Uzbek hospitality and a taste of rural Central Asia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Xovos, where the local airport welcomes travelers with traditional Uzbek hospitality. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh bread and butter with tea. Take a morning stroll through the picturesque streets, observing the unique architecture and vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the Xovos Museum of History, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Lunch at a nearby restaurant offers a chance to taste authentic Uzbek pilaf, a dish made with rice, meat, and vegetables. After lunch, visit the local bazaar to experience the sights and sounds of everyday life and shop for souvenirs.
As the sun sets, savor a beautifully prepared dinner at a traditional teahouse, enjoying a variety of local dishes while soaking in the warm ambiance. Join a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in the art forms that define Uzbekistan's rich history. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, where the city's charm comes alive at night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before visiting the historic Xovos Mosque, known for its stunning architectural features and intricate tilework. Spend the morning wandering the surrounding area, soaking up the history and the local atmosphere. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to capture the beauty of this unique city.
After lunch, take an excursion to the nearby ancient city of Ayaz-Kala, where you can explore the ruins of fortresses that date back to the 6th century. Enjoy a light picnic amidst the stunning desert backdrop before heading back to Xovos. Engage with local guides who can share intriguing stories and historical facts about this fascinating site.
In the evening, return to Xovos for a cooking class where you will learn to make traditional Uzbek dishes under the guidance of a local chef. After cooking, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine with fellow travelers and share stories and experiences. As the evening winds down, find a cozy café to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course mid-range restaurant meal | $12-25 |
| 🚌Local transport one-way | $0.50-1.50 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.30-0.60 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine cultural experiences and hospitality
- Compact town with authentic Uzbek life and easy navigation
- Limited nightlife and a slower pace compared to big cities
- Language barriers outside tourist-focused venues
- "Assalomu alaykum" - Hello
- "Xush kelibsiz" - Welcome
- "Rahmat" - Thank you
- "Iltimos" - Please
- "Necha pul?" - How much is it?
- "Choy ichsam bo‘ladi?" - May I have tea?
- "Qayerga borasiz?" - Where are you going?
- "Yordam bera olasizmi?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Xovos
Visit one of these nice places.
A quiet courtyard with traditional brickwork and minaret silhouettes, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
A gentle bend in the river where light plays on the water and fields, ideal for landscape shots.
Stone remains from historic trade routes, offering textures and atmospheric portraits.
A lively focal point for candid street photography and evening lights.
Food in Xovos
Xovos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant rice cooked with meat and carrots; a centerpiece of most Uzbek meals.
Must-Try!
Baked pastry stuffed with minced meat, onion, and herbs.
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and spices, usually served with a tomato-based sauce.
A hearty meat and vegetable soup rich in broth and herbs.
Leavened round bread baked in tandoor ovens, found with almost every meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market offering fresh produce, dried fruit, nuts, dairy, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Vendors selling samsa, fried dough pastries, and savory pastries near the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly 'Assalomu alaykum' (Hello); shake hands with a smile in respectful, calm tone.
Dress modestly in public spaces; shoulders and knees covered in more traditional areas.
Accept tea or snacks offered by hosts; showing appreciation is important.
Use the right hand for handing or receiving items; avoid pointing with one finger.
Safety
Tipping in Xovos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and appreciated in cafes and guesthouses; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash is widely used; some larger shops and hotels may accept cards or mobile payments, especially in towns near regional centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Hot and dry; carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Cool days with harvest season, colorful landscapes, and pleasant walking weather.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor attractions and warm teahouses become popular social hubs.
Xovos at Night
Hiking in Xovos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop through foothills with views over the river and valley.
Easy to moderate route linking multiple villages with a sunset overlook.
Airports
How to reach Xovos by plane.
Major regional airport servicing international and domestic flights; about a 2.5-3.5 hour drive from Xovos depending on route.
Helpful gateway for western Uzbekistan; flights to regional destinations and some international options.
Uzbekistan’s largest international hub; connects to most major cities worldwide; longer transfer from Xovos but provides more options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, largely rural and family-oriented.
Smaller communities including Russians, Tajiks, and others in some neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Uzbekistan, with local matches and community leagues.
Traditional Uzbek wrestling; seen in rural events and cultural celebrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xovos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Uzbek dishes can be adapted to vegetarian options; request plov without meat, or samosas with vegetables. Look for lentil soups and vegetable stews at larger eateries.