Termez

Termez, situated on the right bank of the Amu Darya River, is one of Central Asia’s ancient cities. Its history is marked by multiple layers of cultural development, with each era leaving its imprint on the city’s archaeological remains.

Despite enduring numerous destructions and transitions of power, Termez has withstood the test of time and today warmly welcomes tourists eager to discover its rich heritage. According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical king Zoroaster, and by the 5th century BCE, its inhabitants, the Bactrians, referred to it as «very ancient.»

Termez is the vibrant heart of Asia, reflecting its multifaceted and diverse essence. It is challenging to find another place in Uzbekistan where Buddhist, ancient Bactrian, and Islamic cultures coexisted so harmoniously.

The city’s rich cultural heritage faced a devastating blow in 1220 when Genghis Khan’s forces razed Termez after it refused to surrender peacefully. This catastrophic event led to the destruction of the city’s longstanding cultural landmarks and traditions.

Following this destruction, a new settlement was established to the east of the original city. The best account of this new town comes from Rui Gonzales de Clavijo, an envoy sent by Castilian King Henry III to visit Amir Temur. Clavijo described his experience in the city as follows: «Upon entering, we navigated through a series of squares and bustling streets for such a long time that we returned home feeling exhausted and frustrated.»

In the 19th century, Termez’s development shifted to a new area situated to the south of the medieval town and closer to the Amu Darya. This period of expansion marked a significant transformation in the city’s layout and function.

Before its destruction by Genghis Khan, Termez had been a notable center of Buddhism for over seven centuries, from the 1st to the 7th century AD. Archaeological excavations in the area have unearthed several Buddhist sites, serving as a reminder of Termez’s significant role in the Buddhist tradition of ancient times. These findings offer a glimpse into an era when Termez was a prominent hub of Buddhist culture and thought.

You will experience the true magic of antiquity in this southernmost city of Uzbekistan. Positioned on the right bank of the mighty Amu Darya River, Termez shares borders with Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan, connected to the latter by the Friendship Bridge, the only one of its kind in the region. The city’s population is relatively modest, around 150,000 people, which makes visiting Termez both pleasant and unhurried.

However, be mindful that the climate here is continental, with extremely hot summers where temperatures often reach up to 45°C. The most favorable times to visit are April-May or September-October. Nonetheless, winters are quite mild, and the heat, combined with low humidity, is more bearable than in other regions.

Fayaz-Tepa Buddhist Temple Complex (1st-3rd Century BC)

In 1968, an extraordinary ancient sculpture was discovered between the right bank of the Amu Darya and an ancient caravan route. Subsequent excavations unearthed a whole temple complex, including a temple, a monastery, and various utility buildings. The temple preserves a statue of the meditating Buddha. As you explore the monastery, you will encounter cells, pilgrim quarters, and a multitude of rooms with remnants of ancient earthen ovens.

Sultan-Saodat Memorial Complex

The Sultan-Saodat complex, a typical Islamic mausoleum from the 13th-14th centuries, comprises structures from different periods, creating a cohesive architectural ensemble. This complex is noted for its austere forms and refined decoration, serving as a significant cultural and memorial site.

Hakim at-Termezi Architectural Complex

At the center of this complex lies the tomb of the founder of the Sufi order «Hakimiyya» in Termez. It is a revered pilgrimage site for Sufi followers from across Asia. Although the complex covers a small area, it is considered one of the most intricate among medieval monuments. For those wanting to see illustrations from old travel books depicting the mystical East, this is the place to visit.

Jar-Kurgan Minaret

Located 60 kilometers from Termez in the village of Minor, the renowned Jar-Kurgan Minaret exemplifies the architecture of the Khwarezmian rulers. You can reach this site by bus, minibus, or taxi. Here, you will immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a traditional Uzbek village, purchase souvenirs, enjoy authentic pilaf, and savor fragrant green tea with dried melon.

Aral-Paygambar Nature Reserve

Eco-tourists and other visitors alike should not miss the Aral-Paygambar Nature Reserve. It is famous for its unique tugai forests, which only grow along riverbanks in temperate or subtropical deserts or dry steppes. The forest area is narrow, just a few dozen meters from the water’s edge, but its flora is impressive. Additionally, the reserve is rumored to house the tomb of the biblical prophet Ezekiel (Zul-Kifl), adding a layer of intrigue to this stunning natural landscape.