Things to Do in Khast Imam Complex, Oʻzbekiston

The Khast Imam Complex (Hazrat Imam Complex) stands as the spiritual heart of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, serving as the country's most important religious center and home to the official residence of the Grand Mufti. This magnificent ensemble of Islamic architecture houses some of the world's most precious Islamic manuscripts, including the famous Othman Quran, believed to be the oldest existing Quran in the world, dating back to the 7th century. The complex beautifully showcases traditional Uzbek Islamic architecture with its stunning madrasahs, mosques, and mausoleums adorned with intricate tile work, carved wooden details, and soaring minarets. Visitors can explore the Barak Khan Madrasah, the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, the Imam al-Bukhari Islamic Institute, and the mausoleum of the revered Islamic scholar Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, making it an essential destination for understanding Uzbekistan's rich Islamic heritage and cultural traditions.

Top Things to Do in Khast Imam Complex

Islamic Architecture Tour

Explore the stunning collection of madrasahs, mosques, and mausoleums within the complex, each showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture with detailed tilework and calligraphy. The tour includes visits to the Barak Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheikh Mosque, and various historical buildings that demonstrate centuries of Islamic architectural evolution.

Booking Tip: Free entry to most areas, but guided tours cost $10-15 and provide valuable historical context. Best visited in morning (9-11 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

Othman Quran Viewing

Witness the world's oldest existing Quran, believed to belong to Caliph Othman ibn Affan, displayed in a special climate-controlled room within the complex. This 7th-century manuscript represents one of Islam's most sacred relics and attracts pilgrims and scholars from around the world.

Booking Tip: Viewing is free but requires respectful dress code (covered shoulders and legs). Photography may require special permission and small fee. Visit during weekday mornings for more peaceful experience.

Traditional Craft Workshops

Participate in hands-on workshops learning traditional Islamic arts such as calligraphy, miniature painting, and woodcarving from local master craftsmen. These sessions provide insight into the artistic traditions that created the beautiful decorations throughout the complex.

Booking Tip: Workshops cost $20-40 per person and should be booked 2-3 days in advance through local tour operators. Materials are typically included, and sessions last 2-3 hours.

Pilgrimage Site Visits

Visit the sacred mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, a revered 10th-century Islamic scholar, and observe local pilgrims performing traditional rituals. The site offers a profound spiritual experience and insight into contemporary Islamic practices in Uzbekistan.

Booking Tip: Free access but maintain respectful silence and distance from worshippers. Best visited with a knowledgeable guide ($15-20) who can explain the religious significance and proper etiquette.

Islamic Manuscript Library Tour

Explore the extensive collection of rare Islamic manuscripts, religious texts, and historical documents housed within the complex's library and museum. The collection includes works on theology, philosophy, astronomy, and medicine dating back centuries.

Booking Tip: Library tours cost $5-8 and require advance booking through the complex administration. Photography restrictions apply, and visits are limited to small groups of 6-8 people maximum.

Getting There

The Khast Imam Complex is located in the old town area of Tashkent, easily accessible from Tashkent International Airport (20-25 minutes by taxi, $8-12). From the city center, take the Tashkent Metro to Chorsu station (blue line) and walk 10 minutes, or use local buses #11, #32, or #76. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Yandex Taxi are readily available throughout the city, with rides from central Tashkent costing $3-5. The complex is well-signposted in both Uzbek and English.

Getting Around

The Khast Imam Complex is best explored on foot, as all major sites are within a compact area connected by pedestrian pathways. The entire complex can be covered in 2-3 hours of walking on well-maintained paths suitable for most fitness levels. For elderly visitors or those with mobility concerns, the main attractions are accessible via short walks from the entrance gates. Local guides are available at the entrance for $10-15 and can provide valuable historical context while helping navigate between different buildings and courtyards.

Where to Stay

Chorsu Bazaar Area

Old Town Tashkent

Amir Timur Square District

Minor Mosque Vicinity

Kukeldash Madrasah Area

Tashkent City Center

Food & Dining

The area around Khast Imam Complex offers authentic Uzbek dining experiences, from traditional teahouses (chaikhanas) serving plov, lagman, and fresh bread to family-run restaurants specializing in regional cuisine. The nearby Chorsu Bazaar provides an excellent opportunity to sample local street food, dried fruits, and traditional sweets. Several restaurants within walking distance offer halal options and vegetarian dishes, respecting the religious nature of the area. For a special experience, try traditional Uzbek hospitality at local family guesthouses that serve home-cooked meals featuring seasonal ingredients and recipes passed down through generations.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Khast Imam Complex is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable (20-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot (35-40°C), making outdoor exploration challenging, while winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures but fewer crowds. Early morning visits (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) offer the best lighting for photography and more comfortable temperatures during warmer months. Fridays see increased local worshipper activity, providing cultural authenticity but potentially larger crowds.

Insider Tips

Dress modestly with covered shoulders, long pants/skirts, and remove shoes when entering mosque areas - bring socks as floors can be cold

Visit during the call to prayer times to experience the spiritual atmosphere, but maintain respectful distance from worshippers

Bring cash in Uzbek som as card payments are not widely accepted, and small denomination bills are helpful for donations and tips

Things to Do in Khast Imam Complex