Daytrip From Khiva to Savitsky Museum & Mizdakhan & Chilpik

Exploring Uzbekistan’s remote corners often means uncovering hidden gems that go beyond the usual tourist trail. This particular day trip from Khiva to Nukus offers a fascinating blend of art, history, and spirituality, all packed into an accessible and well-organized excursion. It’s a great way to see some of the country’s most intriguing sites without the hassle of planning multiple transfers or guided tours.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines three distinct highlights: the Savitsky Museum of Art, the Mizdakhan Necropolis, and the Chilpik Tower of Silence. Each spot has its own story and unique appeal, whether it’s the world-class art collection, ancient burial sites, or the Zoroastrian religious site with sweeping desert views. Plus, the private transportation and knowledgeable drivers make the whole day smooth and stress-free.

One potential consideration is that the tour does not include tickets or a guide, so if you want an in-depth understanding of each site, you might need to arrange that separately. Still, for most travelers seeking an authentic experience with excellent value, this trip hits the right notes. This trip is best suited for those who love history, art, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, and who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Expertly Curated Itinerary: Combines art, archaeology, and spiritual sites into one day.
• Affordable Price: At $129 for up to three people, it offers good value considering the private transport and multiple stops.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip A/C private vehicle ensures a relaxed journey.
• Authentic Local Experience: Knowledgeable drivers, though not all speak fluent English, provide reliable guidance.
• Rich Historical Context: Learn about Zoroastrian rituals and ancient burial sites.
• Authentic Art Collection: See one of the region’s best art collections, often called the “second Louvre.”

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Sites: What to Expect

The Savitsky Museum of Art

Most visitors come for the Savitsky Museum, often called the “second Louvre” due to its extraordinary collection. The museum is packed with over 82,000 items, including antiquities from Khorezm, folk art from Karakalpakstan, and Uzbek fine arts. The highlight for many is the second largest collection of Russian avant-garde works, which makes the museum a rare treasure in Central Asia.

One reviewer, Luka, pointed out, “It’s astonishing how many great paintings are here in West Uzbekistan.” This hints at how surprising and impressive the collection is, especially considering Nukus is a relatively remote city. Visitors often note that despite ongoing renovations, the museum still offers plenty to explore, including contemporary art exhibits if the main galleries are temporarily closed.

Charlotte, another guest, mentioned that the guide’s local knowledge made the visit particularly enjoyable—”Good value as well.” This suggests that even without a guide included in the price, you’ll likely find the museum’s displays engaging and worth spending time on. We recommend allocating at least an hour here to truly absorb the art and artifacts.

Mizdakhan Necropolis

Next, the tour takes you to the Mizdakhan Necropolis, a sprawling ancient burial site with mausoleums, tombs, and ruins dating back centuries. It was once a significant Zoroastrian and Islamic center, which makes it especially interesting for those keen to understand local spiritual traditions and ancient customs.

What sets Mizdakhan apart is the palpable sense of history that emanates from the ruins. You’ll see mausoleums like Nazlimkhan Sulu and Shamun Nabi Hill, each with their own legends. Walking through these tombs offers a glimpse into centuries of spiritual practices and community life. One review praises the necropolis as “a very special place,” and many mention the peaceful, almost sacred atmosphere.

Chilpik Tower of Silence

The Chilpik Tower of Silence is an extraordinary site, perched atop a hill with sweeping desert views. Originally a Zoroastrian Tower of Silence, it served as a place for exposure of the dead—part of a ritual believed to purify the soul.

From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas that are perfect for photography. The retreat into the desert landscape, combined with the spiritual significance of the site, makes this a memorable stop. The impressive scenery and historical importance make Chilpik a highlight of the tour, especially for those interested in ancient religions and cultural practices.

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Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included

• Pick-up and drop-off in Khiva and Urgench
• Round-trip private A/C transportation
• A comfortable, hassle-free day without the need to navigate public transport

Not Included

• Tickets to the sites (you’ll need to purchase these separately)
• Optional lunch if you wish to extend your experience
• An official guide isn’t included, so some independence or pre-arranged guide may be needed for more context

Additional Information

While the drivers are fully trained and knowledgeable about the tour, they may have limited English skills. Communication via Google Translate has worked well for previous travelers, so a bit of patience and language prep can go a long way.

Price and Value

At $129 for up to three people, this tour offers considerable value, especially given the private transport and diverse stops. Considering the chance to explore significant cultural sites and enjoy scenic views, it’s a good option for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day out.

What Reviewers Say: Authentic Insights

Many guests appreciate the professionalism and friendliness of the drivers. Ginette, from Canada, noted that her driver was “very nice” and even used Google Translate to communicate, which she found endearing. Luka highlighted that “the driver was really nice, spoke English, was funny and an excellent driver,” making the long day both comfortable and enjoyable.

Charlotte appreciated the good value and the overall experience, which suggests the tour’s balance of cost and quality appeals to many travelers. Brigida called the necropolis and Tower of Silence “not to be missed,” emphasizing the uniqueness of the sites and the friendly, helpful nature of the driver.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Khiva to Nukus offers a well-rounded experience for those with an interest in art, history, and spirituality. It showcases some of Uzbekistan’s most fascinating sites, from the world-class Savitsky Museum to the mysterious Mizdakhan Necropolis and the spectacular Chilpik Tower of Silence. The private transportation, combined with the expert local drivers, ensures a smooth day, giving you ample time to appreciate each location without the stress of navigating on your own.

The tour’s affordability makes it especially appealing for travelers wanting to maximize value, especially since the sites offer deep insights into the region’s cultural tapestry. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or someone simply curious about Central Asian customs, this day trip has plenty to offer.

While it’s not an all-inclusive experience—lacking guides and tickets—you’ll find it provides a sturdy foundation for exploring Nukus’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy independent exploration but prefer the convenience of private transport and a thoughtfully curated itinerary.

Who is this tour best for?

It’s ideal for those keen to explore Uzbekistan’s lesser-known historical sites without the hassle of multiple arrangements. Art enthusiasts will love the museum’s extensive collection, and history fans will appreciate the spiritual significance of Mizdakhan and Chilpik. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer comfort, privacy, and local insights over crowded group tours.

FAQ

Do I need to buy the tickets in advance?
No, tickets are not included in the tour price. You will need to purchase them separately at each site.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a relaxed and comfortable journey.

Can I communicate with the driver easily?
Some drivers may have limited English proficiency, but previous travelers say communication via Google Translate works well.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and not included in the price. You may want to bring snacks or plan to buy food locally.

How long is the tour?
The tour covers a full day, with pickup and drop-off in Khiva or Urgench, allowing plenty of time to visit each site.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The sites, especially Chilpik and Mizdakhan, offer stunning vistas perfect for capturing the landscapes and historical ruins.

Can I customize this tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, you can discuss personal preferences or additional stops with the tour provider beforehand.

This day trip balances cultural depth with practical comfort—an excellent way to deepen your understanding of Uzbekistan beyond the capital cities. For art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Central Asian traditions, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat at this price point.

You can check availability for your dates here: