Tash Khauli Palace Khiva
A 19th-century royal palace in Khiva, Uzbekistan, renowned for its opulent tile mosaics, carved wood, and glimpse into Khanate luxury.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Tash Khauli Palace Khiva
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 19th-century royal palace in Khiva, Uzbekistan, renowned for its opulent tile mosaics, carved wood, and glimpse into Khanate luxury.
"The palace doesn't have a separate ticket. It is included in the $20 mega ticket for several sites. So buy that ticket to enjoy visits into several sites inside the old town. Again, there are some sites that should be paid separately, like the tall minaret. This palace is worth it ❤️"
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The palace is included in the multi-site ticket, offering great value for exploring Khiva's historical gems.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture the stunning tilework and architecture, especially during the golden hours for magical shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harem Courtyard
Tash Khauli Palace
Step into the opulent harem, adorned with intricate blue and white tiles and carved wooden pillars. A true glimpse into royal life.
Reception Courtyard
Tash Khauli Palace
Marvel at the grand reception area, designed for formal gatherings with stunning architectural details.
Intricate Tilework
Throughout Tash Khauli Palace
Admire the detailed geometric, floral, and calligraphic patterns on the maiolica tiles, a hallmark of Khivan artistry.
Carved Wooden Pillars
Tash Khauli Palace
Examine the beautifully carved wooden pillars supporting the ayvans (summer halls), showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Fairy Tale
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The palace is included in the multi-site ticket, offering great value for exploring Khiva's historical gems.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture the stunning tilework and architecture, especially during the golden hours for magical shots.
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Take your time to soak in the details; the palace feels less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
🕌 Silk Road Charm
Experience a piece of Silk Road history in this beautifully preserved ancient city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
The palace is included in the multi-site ticket, offering great value for exploring Khiva's historical gems.
📸 Photography Paradise
Capture the stunning tilework and architecture, especially during the golden hours for magical shots.
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Take your time to soak in the details; the palace feels less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
🕌 Silk Road Charm
Experience a piece of Silk Road history in this beautifully preserved ancient city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tash Khauli Palace is widely praised as a masterpiece of royal luxury, captivating visitors with its stunning tilework, carved wooden details, and glimpse into 19th-century Khivan royalty. Many appreciate its less crowded atmosphere, allowing for a more immersive experience. Some visitors note that while the exterior is plain, the interior's opulence is breathtaking.
"Tosh Hovli Palace – A Masterpiece of Royal Luxury.
Built in the first half of the 19th century, the Tosh Hovli Palace (meaning “Stone House”) was intended as a luxurious new residence for Allakuli Khan, designed to surpass the older Kuhna Ark in elegance and comfort. Located in the eastern part of Ichan Kala, it is a shining example of Khiva’s domestic palace architecture and refined taste.
The palace complex includes more than 150 rooms arranged around three main courtyards: one for formal receptions, one for the harem, and one for family and private use. Each section reflects a different aspect of royal life, carefully designed for privacy, hierarchy, and ceremony.
What distinguishes Tosh Hovli is its ornate tilework, painted wooden ceilings, and carved pillars, particularly in the harem quarters. The blend of geometric, floral, and calligraphic decoration creates a richly textured environment, balancing formality with comfort. The palace’s elaborate ayvans (open summer halls) are especially admired for their cool elegance and craftsmanship.
Today, Tosh Hovli Palace is open to visitors and serves as both a historical monument and a cultural showcase. Walking through its courtyards, one experiences the graceful lifestyle of Khivan royalty, making it a highlight for those seeking both beauty and history in this UNESCO-listed city."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
"Toshhovli Palace’s harem was the first stone laid, a complex spun around a modest courtyard with five lodges propped on carved wooden pillars—four for the Khan’s legitimate wives, the largest for himself. Across the sprawling palace of over 150 rooms and nine courtyards, the left housed wives while the right sheltered up to 41 concubines squeezed into smaller chambers. Those fallen from favor found themselves banished to narrow balconies, a grim reminder of shifting power. Each apartment boasted a high summer loggia and a cozy winter room, all wrapped in blue and white maiolica tiles painted by Abdullah Djinn, their wooden ceilings glowing with mustard yellows and crimson reds. Walls told a story in jade-green inlays and swirling geometric patterns, nodding to an ancient Zoroastrian past. The labyrinthine harem hid secret passages and winding courtyards, a woven maze where power, beauty, and betrayal played out beneath ornate carved wood. Here, in the palace’s northern heart, life was a delicate dance of shadow and splendor"
George Benaroya
"I really enjoyed wandering through Tosh-Hovli Palace. The courtyards and rooms each have their own character and the tilework and carved wooden pillars are beautiful. It feels less crowded than some other sights in Khiva so I had time to just sit and take in the details."
Ced Aquino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tash Khauli Palace is located within the Ichan Kala, the inner walled city of Khiva. You can reach Ichan Kala by taxi or by walking if you are staying nearby. Once inside, the palace is easily accessible on foot.
Khiva is a bit off the beaten path, often requiring a flight to Urgench followed by a taxi or bus. However, many find the journey well worth it for the authentic experience.
The best way to explore Ichan Kala, including Tash Khauli Palace, is on foot. The ancient city is compact and best appreciated by wandering its narrow lanes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tash Khauli Palace is included in the comprehensive $20 mega ticket for multiple sites within Khiva's old town. This ticket is highly recommended for visiting several historical monuments.
The opening hours for Tash Khauli Palace generally align with the Itchan Kala's visiting hours, typically from morning until early evening. It's always a good idea to check locally for the most up-to-date times.
Absolutely! The palace is considered a highlight and is well worth the cost, especially when bundled with other sites in the mega ticket.
📸 📸 Photography
The harem courtyard with its vibrant tiles and the reception courtyard are prime spots. Don't miss the details on the carved wooden pillars and the painted ceilings.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere and avoiding harsh midday sun.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the palace, but it's always wise to be respectful of the historical site and any local customs.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You'll find multiple courtyards, including a harem and reception area, adorned with stunning tile mosaics, carved wooden elements, and painted ceilings, offering a glimpse into royal life.
To truly appreciate the details and avoid feeling rushed, allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit.
Yes, it's a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the royal lifestyle and architectural styles of Khiva.
While not always explicitly advertised, local guides are often available for hire within Ichan Kala who can provide in-depth historical context for your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing the multi-site ticket to make the most of your visit to Khiva's old town. This allows for flexibility if younger ones get tired, as you can easily move between sites. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the historical sites can be limited. The relatively uncrowded nature of Tash Khauli compared to some other attractions can also be a plus for families seeking a calmer experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1To get the best shots, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light beautifully accentuates the textures and colors of the palace. The harem courtyard is particularly photogenic, but don't overlook the details in the reception areas and the summer loggias. Be prepared to spend a good amount of time here to capture the full essence of its beauty.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Pay close attention to the fusion of decorative styles, from the geometric patterns reminiscent of ancient traditions to the Islamic calligraphy. The craftsmanship of the tile setters and wood carvers is exceptional and speaks volumes about the artistic skills present in 19th-century Khiva. This palace is a living testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and its place along the Silk Road.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Residence: A Glimpse into Khivan Royalty
The palace complex is vast, featuring over 150 rooms spread across nine courtyards. These courtyards were strategically divided to serve different purposes: one for formal receptions, another for the harem, and a third for family and private use. This layout ensured privacy and hierarchy, crucial elements in royal life. The harem quarters, in particular, are renowned for their intricate design, intended to be both a sanctuary and a symbol of the Khan's status.
Visitors today can explore these distinct areas, marveling at the ornate tilework, painted wooden ceilings, and intricately carved pillars. The palace's elaborate ayvans (open summer halls) offer a sense of cool elegance, a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. Walking through Tash Khauli is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the opulent lifestyle of Khivan royalty.
Artistry in Tile and Wood: The Decorative Splendor
+1Complementing the tilework are the beautifully painted wooden ceilings and carved wooden pillars. The ceilings often feature warm hues of mustard yellow and crimson red, adding a cozy yet regal feel to the interiors. The pillars, particularly those supporting the ayvans, are masterpieces of wood carving, showcasing intricate details and a smooth finish. These elements collectively contribute to the palace's reputation as a masterpiece of royal luxury and artistic achievement.
These decorative features were not merely for aesthetics; they were integral to the palace's function and symbolism. The elaborate designs conveyed status, wealth, and a deep appreciation for artistry. For visitors, these details offer a captivating visual experience, making Tash Khauli Palace a highlight for anyone interested in Central Asian art and architecture.
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