Tashkent & Samarkand

Uzbekistan

The 'it' destination for 2026 Sephardic heritage tours

🟠 Plan Ahead

Kosher Travel Guide: Tashkent & Samarkand

Uzbekistan is the breakout Sephardic heritage destination of 2026. Bukharan Jews lived here for over 2,000 years, and their legacy — synagogues, cuisine, music, and traditions — is preserved in Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent. The Silk Road architecture is jaw-dropping, and the country is safe, affordable, and increasingly accessible. Jewish heritage tours are booming.

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Best Time to Visit

April–June and September–October. Summers are extremely hot (40°C+). Winters are cold.

What to See & Do

1The Bukharan Jewish Quarter and synagogues in Bukhara

2Registan Square in Samarkand — one of the world's most stunning plazas

3Tashkent's active synagogue and Jewish community

4Silk Road bazaars — Chorsu in Tashkent, Siab in Samarkand

5The Ark Fortress and Poi Kalon in Bukhara

Tips for Kosher Travelers

✓Kosher food requires planning — bring supplies and coordinate with the community

✓The Bukharan Jewish community can arrange meals and synagogue visits

✓High-speed train connects Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara

✓Uzbekistan is very affordable — excellent value

✓Guided Jewish heritage tours provide the best context for the history

✓Visa-free for most Western passport holders