Termez

Termez – the Center for Ancient Civilizations and Religions

Few tourists ever venture as far south as Termez. It’s a pity as it is a place of exceptional historic importance and with a wealth of intriguing archaeological sites from pre-Islamic times. In the 6th century BC, Termez was already known to the Achaemenids, and it was later conquered by Alexander the Great.

The city’s medieval fortifications ran for 10 miles, and the famous Moroccan traveler Ibn Battuta wrote of its lively bazaar, fine buildings, canals, and gardens. It is still possible to see the ruins of Kara Tepe and Fayaz Tepe, two important ancient Buddhist monasteries, plus the Kyrk-Kyz Fortress, and the archaeological museum is one of the best in Central Asia.

Popular landmarks

In the most southern city of Uzbekistan, many unique monuments and interesting places have been preserved. In Termez, be sure to visit:

• Termez Archaeological Museum
• Numerous archaeological sites of Surkhandarya
• Sultan-Saodat Architectural complex
• Surkhandarya Regional Museum of Local Lore
• Surkhandarya Regional Theatre of Musical Drama and Comedy
• Buddhist monuments and temple complexes.