Thursday November 13 2014
27 degrees F. – Sunny
We spent the day riding northwest through the sandy Karakum Desert of Uzbekistan between Bukhara and Khiva. This was one of the historical routes of the caravans of The Silk Road. As our coach undulated and bumped along the poor highway, it was easy to imagine how it must have been riding a camel across the sands a thousand years ago to the oasis of Khiva.
Modern Silk Road
Nature Stop in the Desert
After many hours, we stopped for a boxed lunch at a ‘tea house’ in the middle of nowhere. It seemed to be a popular rest-stop along the highway for local people as well. Batir and the Uzbek drivers ordered fish from the menu as we ate our prepared cheese sandwiches which were carried from Buhkara.
Roadside Restaurant
Inside the Tea House
My Box Lunch
Shepherd in the Desert
Section of the Original Ancient Wall of Khiva
With the setting sun, we arrived at the walled fortress of Khiva, Uzbekistan. Our hotel was directly across the road from the East Gate pictured below. Batir told us people who were born within the gates were privileged to live within the fortress. Others had to live outside the walls in newer housing. I dropped off my luggage and went out to take photos in the fading light.
View From the Hotel
Main Passageway Within the Walls
Old and New
Adobe Houses – Earthen Streets
Otojonboy Madrasasi
Shergozixon Madrasasi 1726
As daylight faded, I returned to the hotel for dinner and a good night’s rest. Unfortunately, when I awoke the next morning I was a victim of “Timur’s Revenge.” I spent most of the day in my room and missed the tour of Khiva. I emerged later in the afternoon feeling better and had soup for dinner. During the evening meal, we were entertained by a local family who sang and danced regional Uzbeki folk music.
Uzbeki Folk Music and Dance