population: 0.16 million
extension: 75.2 square kilometers
A great place to visit near Urgench is the city of Khiva, which is home to several museums such as the State Museum of Applied Art and the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah Museum. Additionally, the city itself is a well-preserved historical site with numerous landmarks and attractions.
If you're looking for similar types of museums in the area, you may also want to check out the Regional Studies Museum and the Fine Arts Museum in Urgench.
Uzbek cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, and Urgench is no exception. Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to locals in Urgench include:
1. Plov (or Osh) - a rice-based dish that is typically made with lamb or beef, onions, carrots, and spices.
2. Shashlik - marinated meat skewers grilled over open flame, usually served with bread and fresh herbs.
3. Laghman - hand-pulled noodles served with vegetables, meat, and a spicy broth.
4. Samsa - triangular pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables, baked until golden brown and crispy.
5. Manti - steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions, usually served with yogurt sauce.
6. Shurpa - hearty soup made with chunks of meat and vegetables, often served as a main course.
7. Kebab - grilled meat on skewers, often served with bread, salad, and dipping sauces.
8. Non (bread) - Uzbek bread is famous for its unique shape and texture, and is an essential part of every meal.
These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes you can try in Urgench and throughout Uzbekistan. Enjoy your food!
Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Urgench and the surrounding areas include:
1. Exploring the historic city of Khiva and its many landmarks and attractions.
2. Sampling local cuisine, including traditional dishes like plov (rice pilaf) and shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
3. Attending a performance at the Ichan-Kala Open Air Theater or another venue for music and dance performances.
4. Visiting the picturesque Ayaz Kala fortress and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
5. Taking a boat ride on the Amu Darya River, which flows through the region and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other activities to enjoy in and around Urgench depending on your interests and preferences.