Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
A 15th-century mausoleum of conqueror Timur, famed for its stunning turquoise dome and intricate Timurid architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Best Time
Peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century mausoleum of conqueror Timur, famed for its stunning turquoise dome and intricate Timurid architecture.
"The architecture is impressive, with its turquoise dome and beautiful tilework that showcase the craftsmanship of the Timurid era."
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Visit around 8 AM to enjoy the grounds before the tourist crowds flock. :camerawithflash:
💰 Cash is King
Card machines may not work; bring cash for tickets. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Blue Dome
Exterior
Marvel at the stunning turquoise and blue tiled dome, a masterpiece of Timurid architecture that inspired later structures like the Taj Mahal.
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Intricate Interior Artistry
Interior
Be awestruck by the ornate decorative artworks, gold leaf, and sacred patterns adorning the walls and ceiling.
Amir Timur's Tomb
Crypt
Pay respects at the final resting place of the legendary conqueror Amir Timur (Tamerlane) and his descendants.
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Lively Courtyard
Courtyard
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the courtyard, complete with four minarets at each corner, offering a glimpse into Timurid design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Experience
Ticket Tips & Payment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Visit around 8 AM to enjoy the grounds before the tourist crowds flock. :camerawithflash:
💰 Cash is King
Card machines may not work; bring cash for tickets. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Short Walk from Registan
It's conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Registan Square.
✨ Admire the Details
Take time to appreciate the intricate tilework and ornate carvings inside and out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Visit around 8 AM to enjoy the grounds before the tourist crowds flock. :camerawithflash:
💰 Cash is King
Card machines may not work; bring cash for tickets. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Short Walk from Registan
It's conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Registan Square.
✨ Admire the Details
Take time to appreciate the intricate tilework and ornate carvings inside and out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum for its breathtaking Timurid architecture, particularly the stunning turquoise dome and the intricate, ornate interior decorations. It's considered a must-visit for its historical significance as the resting place of Amir Timur and his descendants, offering a profound connection to Uzbekistan's rich past. Some find the entrance fee a bit high compared to other sites.
"The Amir Temur Mausoleum (Gur-e-Amir) is a must-visit site in Samarkand. The architecture is impressive, with its turquoise dome and beautiful tilework that showcase the craftsmanship of the Timurid era. Inside, the mausoleum has a calm and respectful atmosphere, giving visitors a sense of history and the importance of Amir Temur’s legacy.
The site is well-preserved, easy to reach, and an essential stop for understanding the cultural and historical heritage of Uzbekistan. Truly recommended for anyone visiting Samarkand."
vermaiine
"Gur-e-Amir Tomb (Mausoleum of Amir Temur).
The funerary dome of Amir Temur is one of the finest examples of medieval Eastern architecture from the Timurid period. Its construction was initiated by Amir Temur in 1404 and was originally intended for his grandson and heir, Muhammad Sultan, who had died in Iran the previous year.
Temur had prepared a crypt for himself in Shakhrisabz, but he died unexpectedly of pneumonia in Kazakhstan during the winter of 1405. Since the mountain passes to Shakhrisabz were blocked by snow, he was buried here, next to his grandson, in what would become known as Gur-e-Amir (The Tomb of the Leader).
Later, the tomb became the resting place of other notable figures, including his spiritual advisor Sayyid Baraka, his grandson Ulugh Beg, and his sons Shah Rukh and Miran Shah. With these additions, and the burial of several other relatives, the tomb was transformed into the dynastic mausoleum of the Timurids.
The mausoleum stands as a remarkable example of medieval architectural craftsmanship. The Taj Mahal and Humayun’s Mausoleum in Delhi were inspired by this very mausoleum, whose intricately crafted dome —and indeed the entire monument, shaped like a turban— is exquisitely adorned with blue, turquoise, and emerald tiles that captivate the eye."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
"Resting place of Amir Timur. This has intricate ornate decorative artworks. Absolutely magnificent and astounding, how much work went in to beautify the place.
Recommend to come here early, around 8 am to enjoy the grounds in peace before hordes of touristS flocks the place.
When we visited the place in 2025 summer, the card machine was not working so we had to use cash to buy tickets. Something to keep in mind while you are in Uzbekistan."
Taniyyus Syed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum is conveniently located in Samarkand and is a short walk from Registan Square, making it easily accessible. Taxis are readily available throughout the city to take you directly to the mausoleum.
Yes, it's very close! It's just a 10-minute walk from the famous Registan Square, making it easy to combine visits.
For getting around Samarkand, taxis are a popular and convenient option. Many visitors also enjoy walking between nearby attractions like Registan Square and Gur-e-Amir.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 75,000 UZS per person. Some visitors have noted it's a bit pricier compared to other sites like Registan.
It's advisable to bring cash, as card machines may not always be working. Be prepared to pay in Uzbek Som.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally recommended to visit early in the morning, around 8 AM, to avoid crowds and enjoy the site peacefully.
Advance booking is typically not required for Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific advisories closer to your travel date.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the mausoleum, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography, especially in the tomb area.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the exterior and interior details. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful lighting.
The exterior with the iconic blue dome is a must-capture. Inside, focus on the intricate tilework and the grandeur of the ceiling. The courtyard also offers lovely perspectives.
Drone usage is often restricted at historical and cultural sites. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone near Gur-e-Amir.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Gur-e-Amir is the dynastic mausoleum of the Timurid dynasty, most famously housing the tomb of the conqueror Timur (Tamerlane). It's a significant example of medieval Eastern architecture.
Inside, you'll find the tombs of Timur, his sons, grandsons (including Ulugh Beg), and spiritual advisor. The walls are adorned with intricate tilework, gold leaf, and sacred patterns.
A visit typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and soaking in the history.
It can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
It's a prime example of Timurid architecture, known for its magnificent blue dome, tall minarets, and detailed mosaics, which influenced later structures like the Taj Mahal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Keep in mind that it can get crowded, so an early morning visit is recommended to maintain a smoother experience for the family. The proximity to Registan Square also makes it easy to combine with other sights without extensive travel, which is always a plus with kids.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To get the best shots without crowds, aim for an early morning visit. The courtyard also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the entire complex. Be mindful of lighting conditions inside, as they can vary, and always respect the sanctity of the tomb.
🏛️ History Buffs
Understanding its role as a dynastic burial site and its architectural inspiration for later monuments like the Taj Mahal adds significant depth to the visit. The detailed inscriptions and the sheer scale of the monument offer a tangible connection to a pivotal historical era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Amir Timur and Gur-e-Amir
The mausoleum became the dynastic tomb for the Timurids, housing not only Timur but also his sons, grandsons (including the renowned astronomer Ulugh Beg), and spiritual advisors. This transformation cemented its importance as a symbol of Timurid lineage and power. The architecture itself, with its striking blue dome and intricate decorations, reflects the zenith of Islamic art and architecture in Central Asia during that era.
+1Its grandeur and design have left a lasting impact, notably inspiring later architectural marvels such as the Taj Mahal and Humayun's Tomb. Visiting Gur-e-Amir offers a profound connection to a pivotal period in history and a chance to admire the enduring legacy of Timurid craftsmanship.
Architectural Marvels and Inspirations
Beyond the dome, the exterior is adorned with beautiful tilework and mosaics, while the interior boasts ornate decorative artworks, including gold leaf and sacred patterns. The mausoleum is designed with a lively courtyard and four minarets at each corner, creating a majestic and harmonious complex. The craftsmanship evident in every detail, from the entrance to the ceiling, showcases the high point of Islamic art during the Timurid period.
+2Visitors often express awe at the sheer amount of work and artistry that went into beautifying the place. The intricate details and the scale of the monument provide a tangible connection to the rich artistic heritage of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit