Bukhara, one of the most well-preserved cities on the Silk Road, is home to magnificent architectural monuments and rich museum collections. The city's museums offer a glimpse into its Islamic heritage, trade history, arts, and local traditions.
1. Ark Fortress Museum
Location: Ark Citadel, Bukhara
Entrance Fee: $4 - $6
Hours: 09:00 - 18:00
Ancient royal fortress, serving as the residence of Bukhara's emirs. Showcases military history, court life, and Bukhara’s governance. Includes the Juma Mosque, throne room, and dungeons.
2. Bukhara State Museum of Art and History
Location: Ark Fortress, Bukhara
Entrance Fee: $3 - $5
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00
Artifacts including textiles, jewelry, manuscripts, calligraphy, and coins from various Silk Road civilizations.
3. Samanid Mausoleum Museum
Location: Samanid Park, Bukhara
Entrance Fee: $2 - $4
Hours: 09:00 - 18:00
One of the finest examples of early Islamic architecture. Features on Samanid dynasty and burial customs.
4. Museum of Metal Chasing
Location: Abdullakhan Madrasah, Bukhara
Entrance Fee: $2 - $3
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00
Showcases Bukhara’s traditional metalwork including copper, brass, and silver with artisan demos.
5. History of Bukhara Water Supply Museum
Location: Chashma-Ayub Complex
Entrance Fee: $2 - $4
Hours: 09:00 - 18:00
Explores historic water systems, featuring Prophet Job’s well and ancient irrigation tools.
6. Bukhara Puppet Museum
Location: Near Lyabi Hauz
Entrance Fee: $2 - $4
Hours: 10:00 - 18:00
Collection of handmade puppets and live performances honoring traditional Uzbek puppet art.
7. Carpet & Embroidery Museum
Location: Magoki-Attori Mosque
Entrance Fee: $2 - $4
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00
Displays handwoven carpets, suzanis, and embroidery inside a historic mosque with Zoroastrian roots.
8. Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum
Location: 2 Fayzulla Khodjaev Street
Entrance Fee: $2 - $3
Hours: 09:00 - 17:00
19th-century aristocratic home with exhibits on politics, elite lifestyle, and Bukharan reforms.
9. Bakhauddin Naqshband Mausoleum Museum
Location: Naqshband Complex, 12 km from Bukhara
Entrance Fee: Free
Hours: 24/7
Sufi pilgrimage site with museum exhibits on Naqshbandi teachings, gardens, and spirituality.
Museums in Other Cities of Uzbekistan