Day Trip from Khiva to Four Amazing Fortresses
Starts in Khiva / Urgench
Ends in Khiva / Urgench
Discover the ancient fortresses of Khorezm on a day trip from Khiva. Explore the Ayaz-Kala, Guldursun-Kala, Toprak-Kala, and Kyzyl-Kala fortresses, and learn about the history of the region.
1) Guldursun-Kala fortress is dated back to the II-I centuries BC and is located in Karakalpakstan. Fortification was constructed in rectangular basis with the square of 35 hectares. Adobe walls are lined with two rows and have built-in loopholes. In V century BC the fortress was laid in ruins for unknown reasons.
2) Ayaz-kala fortress (from Turkic – frosty, cold) is located in the north-west of Elikkala district of the Republic of Karakalpakstan 30 kilometers from Buston settlement and 96 kilometers from Khiva and it is the most showy one among other fortresses of ancient Khoresm. In real, there is no one fortress, there is a complex of three fortresses, grouped around a hill in the eastern part of Sultan Uizdak ridge
3) Toprak-kala Built in the 3rd century, the fortress was used as the residence of khorezmshakhs - governors of the country- up to 305 A.D. Numerous aggressive wars forced the governors to leave the residence, and the city gradually fell into decay. Coins, fragments of ossuaries (Zoroastrian’s canopic jars), magnificent samples of art culture were found during archeological excavations: thin manufactured ceramics, wool, silk fabrics, gold ornaments and a necklace of 300 glass beads, paste, amber, corals, bowls.
4) Kyzyl-Kala Fortress served as a refuge for local inhabitants during nomadic raids. Smoke signals would be used to announce the approach of enemy armies, giving the Khorezmians adequate time to prepare for battle and seek shelter within the citadel, which was surrounded by a double wall fortified at the corners by watchtowers. Ceramic pipes were even installed to funnel a continual supply of water to the fort.
Total Duration: 6-7 hours
Sightseeing: 3 hours
Starting Point: Your hotel, train station, or airport in Khiva/Urgench.
Recommended Start Time: Between 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
Mode of Transport: Private vehicle with an experienced driver.
Stop 1: Guldursun-Kala Duration: 30 minutes Explore one of the largest and oldest fortresses, known for its imposing mudbrick walls and rich history.
Stop 2: Ayaz-Kala Duration: 1 hour (includes time for photos and optional refreshments) Perched atop a hill, this sprawling fortress provides breathtaking desert views.
Stop 3: Toprak-Kala Duration: 1 hours Once the capital of Khorezm, this fortress offers a glimpse into royal life with its palace ruins and intricate layout. Stop 4: Kyzyl-Kala Duration: 30 minutes Marvel at the red-hued fortress that stands as a symbol of ancient defensive might.
Return Time: Afternoon based on start time.
Drop-off at your original location in Khiva or Urgench.
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