Things to Do in Khiva

Khiva stands as one of Central Asia's most perfectly preserved medieval cities, its ancient walls enclosing a living museum that feels almost too good to be true. The Itchan Kala, the historic inner city, contains an extraordinary collection of mosques, madrasas, and minarets that have survived centuries largely intact, creating an atmosphere that's both deeply authentic and slightly surreal in its completeness. What makes Khiva particularly compelling is how it balances its UNESCO World Heritage status with genuine local life - you'll find traditional craftsmen working in centuries-old workshops alongside carefully restored monuments, giving the city a lived-in quality that many other historic sites lack.

Khiva's dining scene centers around traditional Uzbek cuisine served in atmospheric settings, often within converted historic buildings or courtyards. The local specialty is Khorezm-style dishes that reflect the region's distinct culinary traditions - try the unique local plov variations and excellent fresh bread from traditional ovens. Most restaurants cater to tourists but maintain authentic recipes, with prices remarkably reasonable ($5-15 for full meals). The teahouse culture remains strong here, and you'll find locals gathering for long conversations over green tea and sweets. For the most authentic experience, look for family-run establishments where the cooking happens in traditional kitchens and the atmosphere feels genuinely local rather than performed for visitors.

The ideal time to visit Khiva is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable for walking around the historic sites all day. Summer can be brutally hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), making sightseeing challenging during midday hours, though the dry heat does make for spectacular clear skies and dramatic lighting. Winter brings surprisingly cold weather and shorter days, but also fewer crowds and a different kind of beauty as the ancient stones take on a stark, almost mystical quality. If you do visit in summer, plan your sightseeing for early morning and late afternoon, using the midday hours for indoor activities or rest - many locals follow this rhythm naturally.