General Information about Uzbekistan: History, Culture & Attractions

Uzbekistan: Journey into the Heart of Central Asia

Welcome to Uzbekistan!

This country, located in the very heart of Central Asia, captivates travellers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique atmosphere.

Geographical Diversity:

Explore three main landscape zones:
  • Desert and Steppe: The vast expanses of the Kyzylkum Desert, occupying 60% of the country's territory, attract adventure enthusiasts.
  • Fertile Valleys: The Fergana and other valleys, washed by the rivers Amu Darya and Syr Darya, amaze with their fertility and abundance.
  • Mountainous Regions: The Tien Shan and Gissar-Alai, with peaks reaching 4643 meters, conquer mountaineers and nature lovers.

Capital of Uzbekistan:

Immerse yourself in the dynamic rhythm of Tashkent, a metropolis with a centuries-old history:
  • Population: Over 2.5 million people representing various nationalities.
  • Administrative Division: 12 districts, each with its own unique character.
  • Historical Milestones: From the capital of the Kazakh Khanate to a modern metropolis.
  • Ethnic Composition: A colourful kaleidoscope of cultures, where Uzbeks make up 65%, while Russians, Tatars, Koreans, and other peoples complement the overall picture.

Population and Ethnic Composition:
Uzbekistan is a multi-ethnic country, with Uzbeks comprising 83.5% of the population, while the remaining 16.5% are Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, Karakalpaks, Tatars, Kyrgyz, Koreans, Turkmens, and other nationalities.

Administrative Division:
The country is divided into 12 regions: the Republic of Karakalpakstan and an autonomous region.

Regions and Their Centers:

  • Republic of Karakalpakstan: Nukus
  • Andijan Region: Andijan
  • Bukhara Region: Bukhara
  • Jizzakh Region: Jizzakh
  • Kashkadarya Region: Karshi
  • Navoi Region: Navoi
  • Namangan Region: Namangan
  • Samarkand Region: Samarkand
  • Surkhandarya Region: Termez
  • Syrdarya Region: Gulistan
  • Tashkent Region: Tashkent
  • Fergana Region: Fergana
  • Khorezm Region: Urgench

Population Density: Uzbekistan is densely populated, with a population density of 75.5 people per square kilometre.

Languages:
  • Official Language: Uzbek
  • Languages of Interethnic Communication: English and Russian
Religions:
  • Islam (88%)
  • Christianity (9%)
  • Others (3%)

Time Zone: GMT +5

Electricity: 220 V AC, 50 Hz, socket type C/F

Internet: .uz

Telephone Code: +998

Currency: Sum

Climate: Continental, with hot summers and cool winters.

Economy: Based on agriculture, mining, textile, chemical, and oil refining industries.

Culture and Attractions:
  • Ancient Cities: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
  • Many museums, mosques, mausoleums
  • Traditional Cuisine: Pilaf, Samsa, Manty, Shurpa, and other delicious dishes
Education and Science:
  • Compulsory primary and secondary education
  • A wide range of specialities in universities
  • Development