When you think of travel destinations, Central Asia might not be the first region that comes to mind. But believe me, this area—often referred to as the “Stans”—is brimming with rich history, jaw-dropping landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. If you’re looking for a travel experience that’s off the beaten path, Central Asia has a lot to offer . I’ve been fortunate enough to explore this region, and I’m excited to share some of its hidden gems with you . So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure through 10 underrated places you simply must visit in Central Asia!

1. Shymkent, Kazakhstan: The Gateway to the South

Let’s kick things off with Shymkent, a city that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves . Often overshadowed by Kazakhstan’s more famous cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan, Shymkent has its own unique charm . The city serves as a gateway to the southern part of Kazakhstan, and it’s a fantastic starting point for exploring the nearby Turkestan region.

One of the things I love most about Shymkent is its vibrant bazaars. You can spend hours wandering through them, sampling local delicacies like samsa (a savory pastry) and shashlik (skewered meat) . The city is also home to some lovely parks and museums that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history . And let’s not forget about the people—the locals here are incredibly friendly and always ready to share a story or two.

2. Karakol, Kyrgyzstan: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains

Next up is Karakol, a town that lies on the eastern shores of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan . If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, you’ll fall head over heels for this place . Karakol is surrounded by stunning mountains, making it the perfect base for hiking, trekking, and even skiing in the winter.

One of my favorite experiences in Karakol was visiting the Dungan Mosque. Built in the early 20th century by Chinese Muslims, this wooden mosque is a beautiful example of Dungan architecture, with its intricate carvings and colorful design. Another highlight was the Karakol Animal Market, which takes place every Sunday . It’s one of the largest in the region, and even if you’re not in the market for livestock, it’s an amazing cultural experience.

 3. Merv, Turkmenistan: A Journey Back in Time

Merv might just be one of the most underrated historical sites in Central Asia, if not the world . This ancient city in Turkmenistan was once one of the largest and most important cities along the Silk Road. Walking through the ruins of Merv feels like stepping back in time.

The site is massive, with crumbling walls and ancient structures spread across a vast desert landscape. As I wandered through the ruins, I couldn’t help but imagine what life must have been like in this bustling metropolis centuries ago. Despite its historical significance, Merv is surprisingly quiet, which means you can explore at your own pace without the crowds you might find at more famous sites.

4. Nukus, Uzbekistan: The Desert’s Best-Kept Secret

Nukus is another place that’s often overlooked by travelers, but it’s well worth a visit . Located in the Karakalpakstan region of Uzbekistan, Nukus is home to the Savitsky Museum, one of the most unique art collections in the world . The museum houses thousands of pieces of avant-garde art from the Soviet era, much of which was banned at the time .

But Nukus isn’t just about art. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby Aral Sea, or what’s left of it . The drying up of the Aral Sea is one of the greatest environmental disasters of our time, and seeing it firsthand is a sobering experience . However, the region is slowly recovering, and there are efforts underway to restore the sea and the communities that depend on it.

 5. Murghab, Tajikistan: The Roof of the World

If you’re the adventurous type, then Murghab in Tajikistan is the place for you . This remote town lies in the heart of the Pamir Mountains, often referred to as the “Roof of the World” . Getting here isn’t easy—the roads are rough, and the altitude is high—but the journey is part of the adventure.

Murghab is the gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes in Central Asia. The Pamir Highway, which passes through the town, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and rugged valleys . One of the highlights of my trip to Murghab was staying in a yurt with a local Kyrgyz family. Their hospitality was incredible, and it was fascinating to learn about their nomadic way of life.

6. Khujand, Tajikistan: A City with a Story to Tell

Khujand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, is another underrated gem . Located in the northern part of Tajikistan, Khujand has a rich history that dates back more than 2,500 years. The city was an important stop along the Silk Road and has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries.

One of the things I loved most about Khujand was its mix of old and new. The city’s historical sites, like the Khujand Fortress and the Panjshanbe Bazaar, offer a glimpse into its past, while its modern cafes and parks show that it’s very much a city of today . The people of Khujand are incredibly proud of their heritage, and it’s easy to see why . The city has a unique charm that’s hard to find anywhere else.

 7. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan: A City of Contrasts

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is often seen as a gateway to the country’s natural wonders, but the city itself has a lot to offer . It’s a city of contrasts, where Soviet-era architecture stands side by side with modern buildings, and bustling markets coexist with quiet parks .

One of my favorite places in Bishkek is Ala-Too Square, the city’s main square . It’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the atmosphere of the city. Nearby, you’ll find the State History Museum, which offers an interesting look at Kyrgyzstan’s past. And if you’re a fan of nightlife, Bishkek won’t disappoint—there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

8. Penjikent, Tajikistan: The Pompeii of Central Asia

Penjikent, often referred to as the “Pompeii of Central Asia,” is a must-visit for history buffs . This ancient city, located in western Tajikistan, was once a thriving center of the Sogdian civilization. The ruins of Penjikent are remarkably well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

As I wandered through the ruins, I was struck by the intricacy of the murals and the layout of the ancient houses . It’s easy to imagine what life was like here over a thousand years ago. The nearby Zeravshan Valley is also worth exploring—its stunning landscapes and traditional villages make it one of the most beautiful regions in Tajikistan.

 9. Tashkent, Uzbekistan: A City Reborn

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a city that’s often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations like Samarkand and Bukhara . But Tashkent has its own unique appeal, especially if you’re interested in Soviet-era architecture and history .

The city was largely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1966, and today, it’s a fascinating mix of Soviet-era buildings, modern architecture, and ancient monuments . One of the highlights of my visit to Tashkent was exploring the city’s metro system. The Tashkent Metro is one of the most beautiful in the world, with each station designed to reflect a different aspect of Uzbek culture.

10. Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan: Where History Meets Nature

Last but not least is Cholpon-Ata, a small town on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan . Cholpon-Ata is a popular destination for locals, but it’s still relatively unknown to international travelers, which is a shame because it’s a truly special place.

The town is home to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs, an open-air museum that features thousands of ancient rock carvings . These petroglyphs date back to the Bronze Age and depict scenes of hunting, rituals, and daily life. The setting is equally impressive—the petroglyphs are spread across a vast, rocky plain with the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains in the distance.

But Cholpon-Ata isn’t just about history. The town is also a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Issyk-Kul . The lake is one of the largest alpine lakes in the world, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, boating, or just lounging on the beach.

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Central Asia is a region that’s full of surprises. From ancient cities and historical sites to stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures, there’s so much to explore . The best part? Many of these places are still relatively undiscovered, which means you can experience them without the crowds you might find in more popular destinations . So why not take the road less traveled and discover the hidden gems of Central Asia for yourself? I promise you won’t be

disappointed.