Traveling to Shakhimardan presents a unique challenge due to the need to cross the border twice. Shakhimardan is an exclave of Uzbekistan within Kyrgyzstan. The distance from the Uzbek border to Shakhimardan is 17 kilometers. This relatively short journey requires crossing the Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan border twice. According to tourist reports, border guards sometimes demand an unofficial fee of around $10.
It’s important to note that some checkpoints are only open to citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Foreign passport holders can pass through the international checkpoints at Kuvasay and Kyzyl-Kiya, then travel along the Uzbek border to reach Shakhimardan. The checkpoint at the entrance to the village is bilateral (Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan), but foreign citizens are sometimes allowed through. However, there is no 100% guarantee of passage. There have been instances where Russian tourists, after passing several checkpoints, had to turn back just 1 km from Shakhimardan. Officially, a special permit is required to visit Shakhimardan, but obtaining one is difficult and is generally granted only for visiting relatives.
Some suggest that hiring local taxi drivers may make the journey easier, as they may have connections with border guards. However, this can also be a waste of money and time, as tourists with local taxi drivers are sometimes turned back at multiple checkpoints.
Uzbek tour operators offer tours to the Fergana Valley, including a visit to Shakhimardan. Purchasing a tour may be the most reliable way to reach the village.
Ultimately, the success of your trip will also depend on the political situation at the border, as conflicts between Kyrgyz and Uzbek authorities occur frequently.