Trips from Khiva
The "Elliq Qala" — fifty fortresses — of ancient Khorezm stand in the desert north of Khiva. There's no public transport to them. A private car with a driver is the simple way to go.
The most dramatic of the fortresses: a citadel on a hill above the desert, with two smaller forts at its foot. A short, steep walk to the top rewards you with views across the Kyzylkum. Yurt camps nearby make it a popular place to stay for sunset.
Trip from Khiva · About 1.5–2 hours each way
More about Ayaz Kala: what to see, nearby places and experiences
Once the capital of ancient Khorezm, with a palace complex and high walls that still outline the city plan. The best-preserved layout of the group and easy to walk around.
Trip from Khiva · About 1.5 hours each way
More about Toprak Kala: what to see, nearby places and experiences
A compact, square fortress with restored walls, close to Toprak Kala. Quick to visit and often combined with its larger neighbour.
Trip from Khiva · About 1.5 hours each way
More about Kyzyl Kala: what to see, nearby places and experiences
A rare circular fortress-temple thought to have been used for astronomical observation. Further from Khiva than the others, and less visited.
Trip from Khiva · About 2–2.5 hours each way
More about Qoy Qirilgan Kala: what to see, nearby places and experiences
Prices in US dollars per vehicle. Travel times are approximate and depend on the road and how long you spend at each site.
Things to experience when you arrive
Sunsets over the Kyzylkum, desert fortresses and the story of ancient Khorezm — with local hosts.
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