Indian travellers planning a Central Asian holiday have a new reason to consider Uzbekistan. The country has announced a 30-day visa-free entry regime for Indian citizens, making it easier for tourists to explore its historic cities, Silk Road heritage, traditional cuisine and cultural attractions.
The announcement was made by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tashkent on August 30, during Modi’s two-day state visit to Uzbekistan.
The move is aimed at strengthening travel, trade and cultural ties between India and Uzbekistan.
What the new visa-free rule means for Indians
Under the newly announced regime, Indian passport holders will be able to enter Uzbekistan without obtaining a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
However, as the announcement is recent, travellers should check when the policy officially comes into force and verify the latest entry requirements before booking flights or accommodation.
The development comes amid growing economic ties between the two countries. Mirziyoyev said bilateral trade crossed US$1 billion for the first time last year, while the number of joint ventures between India and Uzbekistan has increased sevenfold in recent years.
The countries have also strengthened cultural links. Uzbekistan hosts institutions such as the Lal Bahadur Shastri Centre for Indian Culture and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Indian Studies. Yoga has also gained popularity in the country, with a dedicated Yoga Federation established in 2018.
Best places to visit in Uzbekistan
The 30-day visa-free window could allow Indian tourists to go beyond a short city break and explore several destinations at a more relaxed pace.
1. Explore Tashkent
Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent, is a natural starting point for first-time visitors. The city blends modern urban life with Uzbek, Soviet and Islamic influences.
One of its most distinctive attractions is the Tashkent Metro, whose stations feature elaborate mosaics, chandeliers, sculptures and murals.
2. Visit Registan Square in Samarkand
Samarkand is one of Uzbekistan’s most famous destinations and a major stop along the historic Silk Road.
The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travellers can explore Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, Shahi Zinda and the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.
3. Discover historic Bukhara
For travellers interested in history and architecture, Bukhara is another must-visit destination.
The ancient Silk Road city is known for its historic centre, filled with mosques, madrasahs, bazaars, caravanserais and traditional trading domes.
4. Try Uzbekistan’s local cuisine
Food can be a major part of an Uzbekistan itinerary.
Travellers can try plov, the country’s iconic rice dish, which comes in numerous regional variations. Other popular choices include manti, steamed dumplings that can be filled with meat or pumpkin, and shashlik, grilled skewers.
5. Explore the Fergana Valley
Travellers looking beyond the traditional tourist circuit can explore the Fergana Valley.
In Rishtan, visitors can discover Uzbekistan’s renowned ceramic traditions, while Margilan is known for its traditional silk production. The Yodgorlik Silk Factory offers visitors an opportunity to see the craft first-hand.
6. Experience a night in a yurt
For a more unusual travel experience, visitors can head towards Uzbekistan’s desert regions and stay at a yurt camp.
These traditional round tents are often part of experiences featuring local food, cultural performances and desert activities.
What Indians should check before travelling
While the 30-day visa-free announcement could significantly simplify travel planning, Indian tourists should not assume that the policy is already operational.
Before making bookings, travellers should confirm:
- The official implementation date
- Passport validity requirements
- Permitted duration and purpose of stay
- Entry and registration requirements
- Any additional documentation required by Uzbek authorities
With the new 30-day visa-free regime, Uzbekistan could become a more attractive option for Indian travellers looking for a longer and more relaxed Central Asia holiday, combining Silk Road history, architecture, cuisine and cultural experiences in a single trip.
