Private Tour

Daytrip From Khiva To Ancient Fortresses

Overview

Available languages

Russian

English

6 hours

Mobile ticket

Journey into the heart of the Kyzylkum Desert on an unforgettable day trip from Khiva, where you’ll discover three remarkable Silk Road fortresses—Ayaz-Kala, Toprak-Kala, and Kyzyl-Kala. These ancient ruins, once thriving under the Khorezmian civilization, now stand as silent witnesses to history amid vast, windswept landscapes.

1. Ayaz-Kala (4th Century BCE – 8th Century CE)

A massive defensive fortress with panoramic desert views.

Three distinct sections (Ayaz-Kala I, II, III) showcasing Kushan and Khorezmian architecture.

Climb to the top for sweeping vistas of the Kyzylkum Desert and Sultan Uvays Mountains.

2. Toprak-Kala (1st–6th Centuries CE)

Royal palace-fortress of the Khorezmian kings.

Ancient Zoroastrian influences—look for fire altars and inscriptions.

3. Kyzyl-Kala (1st–4th Centuries CE)

A compact "Red Fortress" with striking reddish-brown mud-brick walls.

Military outpost guarding Silk Road caravans.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Round trip A/C vehicle

Drop-off any location in Khiva / Urgench City

Pick up from Khiva and Urgench City

Private Transportation

Optional Lunch not included

Ayaz-kala fortress

Toprak-kala fortress

Kyzyl-kala Fortress

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

Ayaz-Kala

The Ayaz-Kala Fortress is an ancient archaeological site in Uzbekistan, part of the Elliq-Qala (Fifty Fortresses) in the Karakalpakstan region. Travelers visiting Ayaz-Kala will see a fascinating mix of history, stunning desert landscapes, and well-preserved ruins. Here’s what to expect:

1 hour • Admission Not Included

Fortress Toprak Kala

Toprak-Kala offers a rare glimpse into Khorezm’s royal past, unlike the military-focused Ayaz-Kala. The palace ruins, ancient art remnants, and eerie desert setting make it a must for history buffs and adventurers.

30 minutes • Admission Not Included

Options

Daytrip From Khiva To Ancient Fortresses

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

2 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Effective transportation, Courteous driver, Proper amount of time to explore the 3 site
Richard S,
Sep 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The trip provides effective transportation in a vehicle with a courteous driver and the proper amount of time to explore the 3 sites.
Excellent tour experience
Albia-Newton,
Sep 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Three dramatic fortresses in stunning locations A good chance to see something of Uzbekistan beyond the city limits Highly recommended