Things to Do in Abdulkasim Madrasah, Oʻzbekiston

The Abdulkasim Madrasah is located in Tashkent, the vibrant capital city of Uzbekistan and Central Asia's largest metropolis. This historic Islamic educational institution represents one of many architectural treasures that dot the cityscape, showcasing the rich Islamic scholarly tradition that has flourished in this region for centuries. Tashkent serves as the perfect gateway to explore Uzbekistan's incredible heritage, blending Soviet-era architecture with ancient Islamic monuments and modern urban development. As Uzbekistan's political, economic, and cultural center, Tashkent offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into both the country's storied past and its rapidly evolving present. The city features an impressive collection of madrasas, mosques, museums, and bazaars, all connected by tree-lined boulevards and an efficient metro system adorned with stunning Soviet-era artwork. From here, travelers can easily access the legendary Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, making Tashkent an essential stop on any Central Asian adventure.

Top Things to Do in Abdulkasim Madrasah

Explore Historic Islamic Architecture

Visit the magnificent collection of madrasas, mosques, and mausoleums throughout Tashkent, including the Abdulkasim Madrasah and the famous Hazrat Imam Complex. These architectural marvels showcase intricate tilework, calligraphy, and geometric patterns that represent centuries of Islamic artistic tradition. The Barak Khan Madrasah houses one of the world's oldest Quran manuscripts, making it a pilgrimage site for scholars and history enthusiasts.

Booking Tip: Most historic sites charge entrance fees of $2-5 USD. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Local guides cost $20-40 per day and provide valuable historical context.

Experience Chorsu Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the sensory overload of Central Asia's largest traditional market, where vendors sell everything from spices and dried fruits to handwoven textiles and traditional crafts. The distinctive blue-domed structure has been a trading hub for centuries, maintaining its authentic atmosphere despite modern renovations. Sample local delicacies, practice your bargaining skills, and witness the daily life of Tashkent residents.

Booking Tip: Free to enter, but bring cash for purchases. Best visited in the morning when produce is freshest. Bargaining is expected - start at 30-40% of the asking price. Guided food tours cost $25-45 per person.

Discover Soviet-Era Metro Art

Ride Tashkent's metro system to admire some of the world's most beautiful subway stations, each designed as an underground palace with unique themes and artistic elements. Stations like Kosmonavtlar feature space-age designs, while Alisher Navoi celebrates Uzbek literary heritage with intricate mosaics and chandeliers. Photography was historically restricted but is now generally permitted with discretion.

Booking Tip: Metro rides cost less than $0.20 per journey. Purchase tokens at stations or use contactless cards. Visit during off-peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) for better photo opportunities. Metro tours cost $15-25 per person.

Visit Museums and Cultural Sites

Explore world-class museums including the State Museum of History, Applied Arts Museum, and the Museum of Victims of Political Repression. These institutions offer deep insights into Uzbekistan's complex history, from ancient civilizations through the Soviet period to independence. The Applied Arts Museum, housed in a traditional residence, showcases exquisite examples of local craftsmanship including ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.

Booking Tip: Museum entrance fees range from $2-8 USD. Many close on Mondays. Photography permits cost extra ($2-5). English-speaking guides available for $15-30. Allow 2-3 hours per major museum.

Take Day Trips to Ancient Cities

Use Tashkent as your base for high-speed train journeys to the legendary Silk Road cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, or venture to the mountain town of Chimgan for hiking and outdoor activities. The Afrosiyob high-speed train reaches Samarkand in just 2 hours, making it perfect for day trips to see the Registan Square and other UNESCO World Heritage sites. These excursions offer glimpses of Uzbekistan's golden age of Islamic civilization.

Booking Tip: High-speed train tickets to Samarkand cost $15-25 each way and should be booked in advance online or at the station. Day tours including transport cost $60-120 per person. Bring passport for train travel.

Getting There

Tashkent is served by Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport, which receives direct flights from major cities across Europe, Asia, and Russia. Uzbekistan Airways is the national carrier, with good connections to Moscow, Istanbul, Seoul, and other regional hubs. The airport is located about 12km from the city center, with taxis costing $5-10 USD and buses available for under $1. Most visitors require a visa, though many nationalities can now obtain e-visas online or receive visa-free entry for short stays. Overland entry is possible from neighboring Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, though border crossings can be time-consuming.

Getting Around

Tashkent's efficient metro system is the fastest way to travel between major districts, with three lines connecting key attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis are abundant and affordable, with ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi offering transparent pricing (most rides cost $1-5 USD). Traditional shared taxis (marshrutkas) and buses provide budget-friendly options for under $0.50 per ride. For visiting multiple historic sites, consider hiring a private driver for the day ($30-50 USD) or joining organized tours. Walking is pleasant in the city center and old town areas, where many attractions are clustered together.

Where to Stay

Tashkent City Center

Old Town (Eski Shahar)

Amir Timur Square Area

Yunusabad District

Mirabad District

Near Chorsu Bazaar

Food & Dining

Tashkent's dining scene ranges from traditional Uzbek cuisine to international options, with the city's signature dish being plov (pilaf) served at specialized oshxonas (plov centers). Traditional restaurants like Caravan and Afsona offer authentic experiences with dishes like lagman noodles, manti dumplings, and tandoor-baked bread. The city also features excellent Korean cuisine due to the large Korean-Uzbek population, with restaurants serving unique fusion dishes. Upscale dining options can be found in hotels and modern districts, while street food vendors near bazaars offer budget-friendly snacks like samsa pastries and fresh fruit. Don't miss trying local specialties like qurt (dried cheese balls) and various dried fruits and nuts from the bazaars.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tashkent is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), though this is when the city is most lively with outdoor activities and festivals. Winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures and occasional snow, but fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. Spring offers the added bonus of blooming trees and gardens throughout the city, while autumn provides clear skies perfect for photography and sightseeing.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Russian phrases as it's widely spoken alongside Uzbek, and English is limited outside tourist areas

Always carry cash (Uzbek som) as credit cards are not universally accepted, and withdraw money from official banks or ATMs

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites - cover shoulders and legs, and women should bring a headscarf for mosques

Things to Do in Abdulkasim Madrasah