Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is not very popular with tourists.
However, it is a wonderful city that has changed over the years for the better, although this has also had negative effects on it in many ways.
This change resulted in the removal of some alive Old Tashkent which gave it a distinctive authentic look.
However, there are plenty of interesting places to visit in this captivating city that will make it a great starting point for any trip you take in Uzbekistan.
Distinctive tourist places in Tashkent
Tashkent Metro
Like many Russian metro systems, this city has some of the most unique and ornate stations in the world.
For many years photography was prohibited within these stations, but with new developments in the country, the aesthetic value of the historic Tashkent Metro stations has been realized.
Moreover, the metro stations caught the attention of the world and received a lot of attention after that.

One of the metro stations in the city

One of the stations from the inside
Amir Temur Square, Tashkent
Tashkent's central square is one of the main places to visit in the city.
It was built in 1870 to become the city's central park.
Now, the main landmark of the park is the statue of Amir Timur riding his horse.
In addition, most of the buildings you will see around the square are of historical importance such as the Uzbekistan Hotel, the Law University, the Forum Palace, the Clock Towers and the Amir Timur Museum.
The large white International Conference Hall is also a modern and distinctive addition, completed in 2009.

Prince Timur Square
Independence Square, Tashkent
In Soviet times, this square surrounded by important government buildings was called Lenin Square and was the venue for celebrations of important days such as May Day and Victory Day.
It is still used for this purpose, but has now become a symbol of Uzbekistan's independence.
The statue of Lenin was removed and replaced by the Independence Monument.
The fountains and buildings in the square were also restored.
Moreover, in the lower right part of Independence Square, you will see the monument commemorating the 400,000 Uzbek soldiers who died in World War II.

Independence Square
State History Museum
The State History Museum is a fine example of a Soviet building with Uzbek influence.
The architectural design of this building alone makes it worth a visit.
The museum actually opened its doors in 1876 as the National Museum of Turkestan.
During the Soviet era it became the Lenin Museum. Today, the exhibits focus on the history of Uzbekistan from ancient times to the time of President Karimov.

State History Museum
Kokldash School
The Kükeldaş Madrasah was built in the 16th century. The building was destroyed by an earthquake in 1868 and rebuilt.
During the Soviet era, the school became a museum of folk music.
After the independence of Uzbekistan, the building was again reused for its original purpose.

Kokldash School
Navoi Garden
Navoi Park is the largest park in Tashkent.
Here you will find lots of green spaces, flowers, canals and a wonderful little lake that come together to form a beautiful and peaceful scene.
Founded by the Komsomol in 1932, it now houses a new monument to the Muslim poet Alisher Navoi.

Navoi Garden
Independence Palace
You can walk through Navoi Park to reach the Independence Palace, combining the views of the park with getting away from the crowds.
This is probably one of the best places in Tashkent that is a true example of Soviet architecture and impressive design.
The Palace of Friendship of Peoples (as it was called) was the main venue for concerts and events of the Uzbek SSR.
It is now called the Independence Palace of the Arts and still hosts cultural events and conferences.

Independence Palace
Charvak Lake
This artificial lake was created during the Soviet period to provide energy to Tashkent.
Although local residents initially objected to the project, the lake has effectively provided the city with a permanent supply of energy.
The lake is also surrounded by some mountains that, together with the blue waters of the lake, form a stunning and breathtaking view.
On your way to Lake Charvak there are many great restaurants serving delicious authentic Uzbek meals.

Charvak Lake