Things To Do
in Termiz
Termiz, or Termez, sits on the southern edge of Uzbekistan beside the Amu Darya river near the Afghan border. Its history spans Kushan, Buddhist, and Islamic eras, weaving ancient ruins with a lively market life. Modern Termez offers mosques, museums, leafy streets, and welcoming hospitality, acting as a gateway to desert landscapes and borderlands.
The climate is hot in summer and mild in spring and autumn, making it a year-round base for Silk Road exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the ancient ruins of the ancient city of Termez, where you can wander through the impressive archaeological site of the Fortress of Termez. Marvel at the intricately designed mausoleums, including the stunning Sultan Saodat Complex, which showcases the rich Islamic architecture of the region. As the sun rises, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local bazaars where you can see vendors setting up their colorful stalls.
After a traditional Uzbek lunch at a local café, head to the Archaeological Museum of Termez, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region's storied past. Engage with the knowledgeable staff who can provide context on the artifacts, from ancient coins to pottery. Spend some time in the peaceful gardens surrounding the museum, perfect for reflecting on the morning's discoveries.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like plov and shashlik while listening to live Uzbek music. Take a leisurely walk along the Amu Darya River, where the evening breeze and sounds of nature create a tranquil atmosphere. Conclude your day by enjoying a cup of herbal tea from a nearby tea house, where you can chat with locals and learn more about their culture.
Begin your day by traveling to the ancient site of Fayaz Tepe, an important Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Explore the well-preserved ruins and intricate carvings of Buddha statues, taking in the serene atmosphere of this historic site. Listen to the stories of your guide, who will explain the significance of Buddhism in the region's history.
After a packed lunch, visit the nearby Zurmala Stupa, which stands as a testament to the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road. Capture stunning photographs of the stupa against the backdrop of the surrounding landscape. Spend some time in the nearby village, interacting with locals and learning about their customs and crafts.
Return to Termez for dinner, where you can try traditional dishes like manti and samosa at a local family-run restaurant. As night falls, enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional Uzbek music and dance. Take a walk through the illuminated streets of Termez, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites from Kushan and Buddhist eras
- Warm hospitality and affordable travel
- Compact city center and walkable streets
- Good base for desert and river excursions
- Limited nightlife and some attractions require long drives
- Summer heat can be extreme
- Border proximity may limit some excursions without permits
- "Assalomu alaykum" - Hello
- "Xush kelibsiz" - Welcome
- "Raxmat" - Thank you
- "Iltimos" - Please
- "Siz inglizcha gapirasizmi?" - Do you speak English?
- "Qancha pul?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Termiz
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient stupa and hillside ruins with views over fields toward the Amu Darya; excellent for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Traditional facades and the courtyard echoing Termez’s historical depth, ideal for architectural shots.
Wide river views at sunset with silhouettes of fishing boats and distant mountains.
Desert ruins and ramparts offering panoramic desert and river perspectives.
Food in Termiz
Termiz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant saffron rice pilaf with carrots and meat, typically cooked in large pans for sharing, a staple of Uzbek meals.
Must-Try!
Baked pastries filled with meat or pumpkin, crisp on the outside and flavorful inside.
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions, served with sour cream or vinegar.
A hearty meat-and-vegetable soup rich in flavor and warming in cooler evenings.
Tall, round, soft bread baked in a clay oven; great for scooping up sauces and stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, spices, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks; perfect for tasting street food like samsa.
Tiny street-side stalls offering hot samsa and freshly baked bread to go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect cultural norms, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in many places.
A respectful handshake and a smile; use 'Assalomu alaykum' (hello) when greeting.
Ask permission before photographing people or sensitive sites; be discreet in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Termiz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge is sometimes included; otherwise 5–10% is appreciated for good service.
Cash in Uzbek som is widely used; many larger hotels and shops accept cards; ATMs are common in Termez.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures (around 15–25°C) with blooming trees; ideal for city walks and outdoor markets.
Very hot and dry; temperatures frequently exceed 35°C. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings and evenings; stay hydrated.
Warm days and cooler nights; good for exploring ruins and riverfront without the peak heat.
Mild to cool with rare rain; comfortable for museum visits and indoor attractions.
Termiz at Night
Hiking in Termiz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes around the Buddhist ruins with views of the river and fields.
Ruins atop a ridge offering panoramic desert and river views.
Flat and easy trails suitable for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Airports
How to reach Termiz by plane.
Local airport serving Termez with domestic flights and some international connections; about 10-15 minutes from central Termez.
Regional hub with connections to Tashkent and international destinations; about a 3-4 hour drive from Termez.
Uzbekistan’s main international hub with extensive international connections; great for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; language is Uzbek, with English or Russian in some tourist areas.
Cultural diversity adds to local styles, cuisine, and music.
A legacy community from the Soviet era; Russian is widely understood in many services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and casual games across the city.
A traditional sport seen at festivals and community events.
Riding clubs and relaxed horse riding available on the outskirts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Termiz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include vegetable platters, plov without meat, salads, and dairy. Communicate clearly to the kitchen; soupy bases can be meat broth, so request stock-free options.