Journey into the heart of the Kyzylkum Desert on an unforgettable day trip from Khiva, where you’ll discover three remarkable Silk Road fortresses—Ayaz-Kala, Toprak-Kala, and Kyzyl-Kala. These ancient ruins, once thriving under the Khorezmian civilization, now stand as silent witnesses to history amid vast, windswept landscapes.
1. Ayaz-Kala (4th Century BCE – 8th Century CE)
A massive defensive fortress with panoramic desert views. Three distinct sections (Ayaz-Kala I, II, III) showcasing Kushan and Khorezmian architecture. Climb to the top for sweeping vistas of the Kyzylkum Desert and Sultan Uvays Mountains.
2. Toprak-Kala (1st–6th Centuries CE)
Royal palace-fortress of the Khorezmian...
Highlights
6 hours
Offered in Russian (Русский) & English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
6 hours
Offered in Russian (Русский) & English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Round trip A/C vehicle
Drop-off any location in Khiva / Urgench City
Pick up from Khiva and Urgench City
Private Transportation
Optional Lunch not included
Ayaz-kala fortress
Toprak-kala fortress
Kyzyl-kala Fortress
Important Information
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Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
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Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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The Ayaz-Kala Fortress is an ancient archaeological site in Uzbekistan, part of the Elliq-Qala (Fifty Fortresses) in the Karakalpakstan region. Travelers visiting Ayaz-Kala will see a fascinating mix of history, stunning desert landscapes, and well-preserved ruins. Here’s what to expect:
1 hour
2
Fortress Toprak Kala
Toprak-Kala offers a rare glimpse into Khorezm’s royal past, unlike the military-focused Ayaz-Kala. The palace ruins, ancient art remnants, and eerie desert setting make it a must for history buffs and adventurers.
30 minutes
3
Kyzyl Kala
Kyzyl-Kala (meaning "Red Fortress" in Turkic) is a small but well-preserved mud-brick fortress near Toprak-Kala and Ayaz-Kala in Uzbekistan’s Karakalpakstan region. Dating back to the 1st–4th centuries CE, it served as a military outpost and caravan stop on the Silk Road.
30 minutes
Daytrip From Khiva To Ancient Fortresses
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$98.00
Price varies by group size
About
Journey into the heart of the Kyzylkum Desert on an unforgettable day trip from Khiva, where you’ll discover three remarkable Silk Road fortresses—Ayaz-Kala, Toprak-Kala, and Kyzyl-Kala. These ancient ruins, once thriving under the Khorezmian civilization, now stand as silent witnesses to history amid vast, windswept landscapes.
1. Ayaz-Kala (4th Century BCE – 8th Century CE)
A massive defensive fortress with panoramic desert views. Three distinct sections (Ayaz-Kala I, II, III) showcasing Kushan and Khorezmian architecture. Climb to the top for sweeping vistas of the Kyzylkum Desert and Sultan Uvays Mountains.
