Bukhara Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local Communication

Uzbekistan offers good mobile network coverage, making staying connected straightforward.

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards are easy to purchase at the airport or operator stores.
Major providers: Ucell, Beeline, and Mobiuz (formerly UMS).
Passport is a requirement for SIM card registration. Consider Airalo for eSIM options.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is generally available in tourist-friendly establishments, with mobile data providing consistent access.

Wi-Fi & Data Availability

Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels, guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants.
Local SIM cards offer reliable 4G/LTE coverage for on-the-go internet.
Portable Wi-Fi devices, like those from Solis Wi-Fi, are an alternative.

Postal Services

For sending postcards or small packages, the main post office is available.

Mail & Logistics

Main post office in Bukhara handles postcards and small packages.
It's possible that services are slower compared to international couriers.
For precious items, private courier services may be suitable for tracking and speed.

Language & Translation

Uzbek and Russian are widely spoken, with increasing English proficiency in tourist areas.

Translation Tools

Google Translate with offline language packs for Uzbek and Russian is invaluable.
Carry a small Uzbek or Russian phrasebook for common phrases.
Pre-written translation cards are helpful for complex dietary or medical necessities. Consider language learning from Rosetta Stone.

Important Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello: Assalomu alaykum (Uzbek) / Zdravstvuyte (Russian)
Thank you: Rahmat (Uzbek) / Spasibo (Russian)
Please: Iltimos (Uzbek) / Pozhaluysta (Russian)
Yes/No: Ha/Yo'q (Uzbek) / Da/Net (Russian)

Useful Phrases

How much?: Qancha? (Uzbek) / Skol'ko? (Russian)
Water: Suv (Uzbek) / Voda (Russian)
Delicious: Mazali (Uzbek)
Goodbye: Hayr (Uzbek) / Do svidaniya (Russian)

Language Tip

Uzbeks appreciate when foreigners attempt to speak a few words of their language; even a simple "Assalomu alaykum" receives a warm smile.

Business Hours & Schedules

Navigate Bukhara with knowledge of typical operating hours and public holidays.

Shops & Bazaars

Typically open from 8:00-9:00 AM to 6:00-7:00 PM. Kolkhoz Bazaar usually closes on Mondays. Artisan shops may have flexible hours based on tourist presence.

Restaurants

Lunch service generally begins at 12:00 PM, and dinner starting AT 6:00 PM, with most establishments closing around 10:00-11:00 PM. Some cafes open earlier for breakfast.

Museums & Attractions

Generally open from 9:FROM 12 am TO 6:00 PM. Hours might extend in summer and shorten in winter. Many sites close on Mondays for maintenance.

Banking & ATMs

Access to funds is increasingly convenient, though a cash backup is advisable.

Financial Access

Banks usually operate Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with typical lunch breaks.
ATMs are increasingly common in central Bukhara, dispensing Uzbekistani Som.
Carry some USD or EUR cash for exchange as a fallback for smaller purchases.

Holidays & Events

National and religious holidays can influence business hours and transport availability.

Dates

New Year's Day (January 1STst), Navruz (Mar 21st), Remembrance Day (May 9th).
Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha: Islamic holidays, dates vary annually. Expect closures.
National Day of independence (Sep 1st), Teacher's Day (Oct 1st), Constitution Day (Dec 8th).

Seasonal Adjustments

Off-Peak Season Changes

During low seasons (extreme summer heat or winter cold), some services may adjust.
Smaller guesthouses or outdoor cultural performances might operate with limited schedules.
Confirm specific availability at advance if visiting during these times.

Public Transport during Holidays

Public transport may experience increased demand and crowding around holidays.
Plan bus or train journeys well in advance during festive periods.
Shared taxis may also see higher fares or limited availability.

Stay Informed

Check the calendar for national and religious holidays that influence business operations and travel plans.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural sensitivity fosters respectful and enriching interactions with locals in Bukhara.

Greeting Customs

Learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases; these gestures are greatly appreciated.

Interacting Locally

Men typically shake hands, often with the right hand over the heart as respect.
Women often greet each other with a light hug or cheek kiss.
Use "Assalomu alaykum" (peace be upon you), a polite universal greeting.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is suitable, especially in religious settings and less touristy areas.

Dress Code Guidance

Cover shoulders and knees for both men and women in all settings.
Women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf before entering mosques or sacred spaces.
Long trousers or skirts are prevalent and display respect for local customs.

Dining & Tipping

Guests are highly honored in Uzbek culture, and specific customs apply during meals.

Mealtime Practices

Do not refuse offered food or drink, though small portions are acceptable.
Bread is sacred; avoid wasting it or placing it upside down on surfaces.
Tea is ubiquitous, offered before, during, and after meals.

Photography Ethics

Most public spaces and monuments permit photography, but awareness of local norms is suitable.

Capturing Moments

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, notably women and children.
Be discreet and respectful at religious sites; it's possible that some areas have restrictions.
Photography is prohibited at airports, military installations, and government buildings.

Cultural Sensitivities

Taboos to Observe

Avoid public displays of affection.
Do not discuss politics or sensitive historical topics unless initiated by locals.
Never touch someone's head; do not point with feet or show soles of feet.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Uzbekistan is a conservative society; public interactions are formal.
Homosexuality is illegal for men (not women). Public displays of affection are discouraged.
Discretion regarding sexual orientation is useful.

Religious Site Etiquette

General Guidelines

Remove shoes before entering mosques and some mausoleums; follow local lead.
Women should cover their heads before entering mosques.
Speak softly and maintain a respectful demeanor, especially when worshippers are present.

Respectful Conduct

Do not climb on ancient structures or touch artifacts without explicit permission.
Respect the historical and sacred nature of the sites you visit.
Be mindful of local customs during prayer times and religious observations.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges find limited accessibility in Bukhara, which requires advance preparation.

Infrastructure Limitations

Bukhara's infrastructure is generally not adapted for travelers with mobility challenges.

Mobility Challenges

The historic Old City has challenges with cobblestone streets, uneven pavements, and many steps.
Many heritage buildings do not have ramps or lifts, limiting interior access.
Watch out for uneven sidewalks or obstructed throughout the city.

Accessible Points

Few attractions truly accommodate wheelchair users, with private transport being the most suitable option.

Site Access & Transport

Grounds of some large complexes are quite flat but interior building access continues to be limited.
Public transportation (buses, marshrutkas) is not accessible for wheelchair users.
Private taxis are the most feasible transport, though accessible vehicles are not typical.

Support & Planning

Visual/Hearing ImpairmentsLimited specialized services.

SignageMainly Uzbek/Russian, some English.

Braille/InterpretersNo widespread provision.

Recommended TravelWith a companion or local guide.

Information ResourcesOfficial detailed accessibility info is limited.

Best AdviceContact accommodation or tour operator inside advance.

Airport Services & Compensation

For comfortable airport experiences, consider Priority Pass for lounge access. If facing flight delays or cancellations, Compensair can help secure compensation.

Bukhara Travel Tips