Starting May 3, a new chapter in Uzbekistan’s rail travel begins with the launch of the high-speed train “Jalaliddin Manguberdi,” connecting Tashkent and Khiva. What was once a long 13-hour journey will now take just 7 hours and 31 minutes, transforming the way travelers explore the country.
The train departs from Tashkent at 7:00 AM, arriving in Khiva at 2:31 PM. The return journey leaves Khiva at 7:20 AM the following day, reaching the capital at 2:51 PM. With this schedule, the route becomes not only faster but also far more convenient for both domestic and international travelers.
The service will run several times a week:
– From Tashkent to Khiva on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
– From Khiva to Tashkent on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
The inaugural journey is scheduled for May 3 from Tashkent, with the first return trip departing Khiva on May 4.
Tickets are already available at railway ticket offices and online via the official booking platform. Prices start at approximately $62 USD, making this high-speed connection an accessible upgrade for most travelers.
This modern train is part of Uzbekistan’s broader investment in railway infrastructure. In 2024, the country purchased six high-speed electric trains from South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem specifically for the Tashkent–Khiva route. Additional trainsets are expected to arrive before the end of the year, further strengthening the network.
According to Transport Minister Ilkhom Makhkamov, all six trains will eventually operate on the Khiva line. Meanwhile, electrification works toward Nukus are underway, with plans to extend the high-speed service even further in the future.
Visually, the train makes a strong impression: a sleek white exterior, tinted windows, and flowing accents in blue, green, and red — a subtle nod to the national flag of Uzbekistan.
Inside, the train consists of seven carriages with a capacity of around 390 passengers. It offers three classes of service — VIP, business, and economy — catering to different travel preferences. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 260 km/h, the 175-meter-long train is engineered to handle Uzbekistan’s demanding climate, including dust, sharp temperature fluctuations, and even sandstorms.
With its launch, the journey between Tashkent and Khiva is no longer just a transfer — it becomes a fast, comfortable, and distinctly modern travel experience across one of Central Asia’s most fascinating destinations.
