Uzbekistan is making it easier for Indian travellers to visit the country. Indian passport holders will soon be able to enter Uzbekistan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, following an announcement by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
The announcement was made during President Mirziyoyev’s delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tashkent on August 30, as part of Modi’s two-day state visit to Uzbekistan.
The new visa-free arrangement is aimed at strengthening travel, business and cultural connections between India and Uzbekistan. For Indian travellers, it could also make it easier to plan a longer holiday across one of Central Asia’s most interesting destinations.
Indians Will Be Able To Stay For Up To 30 Days
Under the newly announced regime, Indian citizens will be allowed to travel to Uzbekistan without obtaining a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
However, the announcement is recent, and travellers should wait for the policy to come into effect before making firm travel plans. It is also important to check the latest entry rules, passport validity requirements and other conditions with the Uzbek authorities before travelling.
The move comes as ties between India and Uzbekistan continue to grow. During the talks, Mirziyoyev described India as a reliable strategic partner and noted that bilateral trade crossed USD 1 billion for the first time last year.
Why Uzbekistan Could Be A Good Longer Holiday
The 30-day window gives Indian travellers more flexibility. Instead of limiting the trip to a few days in one or two cities, travellers can combine Uzbekistan’s major historic destinations with smaller towns, food experiences, and time in the countryside.
The country is particularly appealing for travellers interested in history, architecture, culture, and food, with much of its identity shaped by the ancient Silk Road.
Begin In Tashkent
The capital is a natural starting point. Tashkent offers a mix of Soviet-era architecture, Islamic heritage, and modern city life.
One of the easiest ways to explore the city is through its metro system. Several stations are known for their elaborate interiors, with mosaics, chandeliers, sculptures, and murals making the metro more than just a way to get around.
Travellers can also spend time exploring the city’s markets, museums, parks, and historic neighbourhoods.
Make Time For Samarkand
No trip to Uzbekistan is complete without Samarkand. The ancient city was one of the most important stops along the Silk Road and is home to some of the country's best-known monuments.
Registan Square is the obvious highlight, with its grand Islamic architecture and three historic madrasahs. Other places worth visiting include the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the Shahi Zinda necropolis, and the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum.
The historic parts of Samarkand are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Slow Down In Bukhara
Bukhara offers a different experience. Its old city is filled with mosques, madrasahs, bazaars, and historic trading areas, making it ideal for travellers who enjoy walking around without rushing from one attraction to another. It is also one of the best places to get a sense of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road past.
Go Beyond The Usual Tourist Trail
With 30 days, travellers can also venture beyond the country's best-known cities.
The Fergana Valley is worth considering for its traditional crafts and local culture. In Rishtan, visitors can discover Uzbekistan’s long-standing ceramic traditions, while Margilan is known for silk production.
For another kind of experience, travellers can head towards the desert and stay in a yurt camp. These stays often combine traditional accommodation with local food and cultural activities.
And Don't Leave Without Trying The Food
Uzbekistan is also a destination worth exploring through its food. Plov, the country's famous rice dish, is a must-try, while manti, steamed dumplings, and shashlik, grilled skewers, are other popular choices.
With the new visa-free regime, Indian travellers will have more time to experience Uzbekistan at a slower pace rather than treating it as just a quick city break.
The key thing to remember for now is that the policy has only just been announced. Travellers should check when the 30-day visa-free entry officially takes effect and confirm the latest entry requirements before booking their trip.
(With inputs from various sources)
FAQs
1. Can Indians travel to Uzbekistan without a visa?
Yes. Uzbekistan has announced a new visa-free regime allowing Indian citizens to stay for up to 30 days. The arrangement must officially come into effect before travellers can use it.
2. How long can Indians stay in Uzbekistan without a visa?
Indian passport holders will be allowed to stay in Uzbekistan for up to 30 days under the newly announced visa-free regime.
3. When will Uzbekistan’s visa-free entry for Indians begin?
The announcement has been made, but the official effective date has not been specified in the information provided. Travellers should check the latest rules before booking.
4. What can Indians see during a 30-day trip to Uzbekistan?
Travellers can explore Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, as well as the Fergana Valley, desert regions, traditional craft centres and local food culture.
5. Do Indian travellers need to check entry requirements before visiting Uzbekistan?
Yes. Even with visa-free entry, travellers should confirm the latest entry conditions, passport validity requirements and other rules with Uzbek authorities before travelling.
