Shared Taxis is the most common and popular way to travel to Tashkent. The route works as follows: Tajik drivers take you from Khujand to the Aibek border checkpoint. After crossing the border, Uzbek drivers meet you and transport you to Kuylyuk Market in Tashkent. These private taxi drivers typically operate six-seater vehicles and earn their living this way, making it a highly competitive business.

Step 1: Getting Started

Head to the "Taksistkho Maschoh" taxi stand. Here, drivers eagerly await passengers, calling out destinations like “Aibek” or “Tashkent.” After loading your luggage, you’ll wait until the car is fully loaded with passengers before setting off.

Important Note for Non-Tajik/Uzbek Passport Holders. 

If you don’t hold a Tajik or Uzbek passport, you must cross through the Aibek international terminal. Other nearby checkpoints may not be international and could deny entry.

Costs and Currency Exchange

• The typical fare from Khujand to the Aibek terminal is 50 TJS.
• If you need to exchange currency, head to the Sanduk Exchange Point. While not marked on maps, it’s nearby and easily accessible by foot from the taxi departure point.

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• Sanduk’s operating hours are generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Sundays), with lunch from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. However, hours may vary.
• Alternatively, currency exchange is available at the entrance of the Tajik checkpoint, though the rate from unofficial money exchangers around the border is usually about 2% higher than formal exchange points.

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Crossing the Border

Once you’ve passed through the Tajik and Uzbek border controls, Uzbek taxi drivers will be waiting for passengers. They’re easy to spot, loudly calling out “Tashkent” and inviting you into their vehicles.

• A shared taxi ride costs 100,000 UZS per person.
• For a private ride without waiting for other passengers, the cost is around 300,000 UZS.
• Drivers typically accept dollars, somoni, or Uzbek sums.

Your journey will conclude at Kuylyuk Market, and from there, you’ll officially be in Tashkent!

By Bus

Buses are an option, but they’re not always reliable. For example, the Tajik company Asian Express no longer runs this route and hasn’t provided updates on their Instagram page. Recently, an Uzbek company has reportedly started operating buses, but schedules are unpredictable. To use this method, you’d need to visit the bus station in advance and confirm departure times.

By Train

Traveling via train is possible but highly inconvenient. The route involves passing through Samarkand, which takes almost a full day. Additionally, tickets may need to be purchased in advance from the station in Chkalovsk, a neighboring city. This makes the train option less practical for most travelers.