Uzbekistan by Rail: Tashkent to Samarkand & Bukhara

Uzbekistan, a land steeped in ancient history and Silk Road mystique, offers an unparalleled travel experience. For those looking to journey between its iconic cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, the train network stands out as the most efficient, comfortable, and often the most atmospheric way to explore. Forget the hassle of long bus rides or expensive flights; Uzbekistan’s modern and well-maintained rail system provides a seamless connection, allowing you to relax and soak in the changing landscapes as you traverse this fascinating Central Asian nation.

Why Choose Train Travel in Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan boasts a surprisingly good rail network, making trains the ideal way to travel across its vast distances. Connecting the vibrant capital of Tashkent with the historical gems of Samarkand, Bukhara, and even the remote desert city of Khiva (since 2018), rail travel offers a unique blend of convenience and cultural immersion. Compared to other modes of transport, trains provide a superior experience, especially for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and a smooth journey.

The Uzbek Rail Fleet: A Journey Through Comfort and Speed

The Uzbek rail network offers a variety of train types to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Afrosiyob High-Speed Trains: These are the pride of the Uzbek railway, modern Talgo 250 trains capable of reaching speeds of 250 km/h. Introduced in 2012 and extended to Bukhara in 2016, they are highly recommended for their speed and comfort. Afrosiyob trains offer VIP, Business, and Economy classes, along with a restaurant car, ensuring a pleasant journey.
• Sharq Trains: Numbered 709, 710, 711, and 712, these are air-conditioned, conventional trains that run daily. While not as fast as the Afrosiyob, they offer a comfortable and reliable service.
• Sleeper Trains: For longer overnight journeys, trains like 54, 55, 56, 58, 72, 125, and 126 provide classic Russian-style sleeper accommodations. These include:
  • Spalny Vagon (SV or Lux): Private 2-berth compartments, offering the most privacy and comfort.
  • Kupé: 4-berth compartments, a popular choice for small groups or families.
  • Platskartny: Open-plan sleeping berths, available on some trains, offering a more communal and budget-friendly experience.

Navigating the Timetable: Tashkent to the Ancient Cities

Planning your journey is crucial. Here's a summary of the main train services from Tashkent to Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Note that Tashkent has two main stations: Tashkent main station (North) and Tashkent Yuzhnyy (South), so always double-check your departure point.

Tashkent Departures to Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva

Note: Train numbers 759-780 are Afrosiyob. Trains 709, 710, 711 & 712 are Sharq. Trains 54, 55, 56, 58, 72, 125, 126 have sleeper accommodations. Urgench was formerly the railhead for Khiva, but the railway now extends to a new station in Khiva, about a 15-minute walk from the Itchan Khala.

Return Journeys: From Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand to Tashkent

Always check the latest times on the Uzbek Railways website or a reliable booking platform, as schedules can have minor variations.

Understanding Your Fare: Costs and Classes

Train fares in Uzbekistan are generally very reasonable, offering excellent value for money. Prices can vary depending on the train type and class of service. Here's an overview of approximate costs:

Tashkent to Samarkand

• Afrosiyob High-Speed Train:
  • Economy: 245,000 Som
  • Business: 360,000 Som
  • VIP: 495,000 Som
• Sharq Train: 147,110 Som

Tashkent to Bukhara

• Afrosiyob High-Speed Train:
  • Economy: 403,000 Som
  • Business: 601,000 Som
  • VIP: 795,000 Som
• Sharq Train: 198,480 Som
• Sleeper Trains (e.g., train 3, 7, 72, 74):
  • Platskartny (open-plan bunks): 166,000 Som
  • Kupé (4-berth sleeper): 225,000 Som
  • Spalny Vagon (Lux, 2-berth sleeper): 392,000 Som

Current exchange rates are approximately £1 = 15,000-16,000 Som, €1 = 13,300 Som, $1 = 12,900 Som. Fares can be checked on the official Uzbek Railways website.

Securing Your Seat: How to Buy Train Tickets

Booking your train tickets in Uzbekistan is straightforward, with several reliable options available:

1. Online Agencies (Recommended for Overseas Travellers):
   • 12go.asia: This is a highly reliable agency for booking most Uzbek train tickets. You can order online with instant confirmation, and overseas payment cards are generally accepted without issues. Booking typically opens 45 days in advance, and it's advisable to book at least a week or two ahead, especially for popular routes and Afrosiyob trains, as they can sell out quickly.
   • Bookaway.com: Another reputable train, ferry, and bus booking agency. Bookaway.com covers both the premier Afrosiyob services and the main sleeper trains, offering a seamless booking experience with good payment card acceptance.
2. Uzbekistan Railways Official Website & App:
   • You can book directly on the Uzbekistan Railways website (e-ticket.railway.uz). Look for the "Ozbek'tili" option at the top right to change the language to English. While the system might occasionally revert to Russian, Google Translate or your browser's built-in translation feature can assist.
   • Booking also opens 45 days ahead (sometimes less). Be aware that for many trains, the website might not produce e-tickets directly. Instead, you'll receive a voucher that needs to be exchanged for a physical ticket at the station.
   • The Uzbekistan Railways app, available for iPhone and Android, is also an excellent tool for booking and showing tickets directly on your phone, simplifying the process.
   • Important Note for Tashkent Stations: If booking directly, pay close attention to whether your train departs from Tashkent main station (North) or Tashkent Yuzhnyy (South), as there's a 7 km distance between them, requiring a taxi or bus transfer. Tickets printed at the station will be in Cyrillic.

Traveller Nigel Moores, who booked directly, noted, "I booked all the trains directly on the Uzbekistan railways website. The English version does the transliteration to Cyrillic without any problems except for a few exceptions such as Khiva for which I just used a cut & paste from Google Translate. It only accepts payment by Visa or Mastercard and it does not yet produce e-tickets for many trains. This is not a problem, you just click on a link on the confirmation page to print a voucher which you exchange for the tickets at the station."

At the Station: A Smooth Departure

Security at Uzbek train stations is quite strict, so it's essential to arrive with ample time before your departure. You will need both your passport and your train ticket (or voucher) to enter the station building. There will also be a security check before you are allowed to board the train. This thorough process ensures a safe and secure journey for all passengers.

A Glimpse Inside: Traveller Experiences on Uzbek Trains

Reports from travellers consistently praise the Uzbek train service, highlighting its efficiency and comfort.

• Afrosiyob Experience: Mark Pascoe, who travelled from Tashkent to Samarkand on the Afrosiyob, described it as "clean and pleasant and wouldn't have looked out of place in western Europe." He noted that the Spanish-built trains were "tidier and in better condition than many TGVs." Seats are spacious and comfortable with ample legroom and overhead storage for suitcases. Even in Economy class, passengers are typically served tea and a small snack. He also advised, "If possible, get a seat on the left hand side (if travelling west) of the train when travelling in this direction as that side of the train is flanked by impressive mountains for much of the route." The trains are punctual, arriving on schedule, with plenty of taxis and tourist services available upon arrival.
• General Train Experience: Nigel Moores, who travelled extensively by train across Uzbekistan, including from Andijan to Tashkent, then to Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, found the service "excellent throughout. Highly recommended." Despite long journeys, only one train was slightly delayed by 20 minutes. Fares are "very reasonable," and he suggested opting for the best available class if your budget allows. He also observed that while Afrosiyob trains can sell out due to tour group block bookings, the regular trains were only marginally slower, possibly less cramped, and offered a more "authentic" experience. Food and drink are readily available on all trains, either from a restaurant car or enterprising vendors.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Uzbek Adventure

Beyond train tickets, a few practical considerations will enhance your journey:

• Accommodation: For hotels, booking.com is a highly recommended platform, known for its reliable review scores (aim for 8.0 or higher) and crucial free cancellation options, allowing flexibility with your itinerary. For budget-conscious travellers, hostelworld.com offers online booking for cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels across most cities.
• Travel Insurance: Never travel overseas without comprehensive travel insurance from a reliable insurer. Ensure it covers medical expenses (at least £1m or preferably £5m), cancellation, and loss of cash and belongings up to a sensible limit. An annual multi-trip policy can often be more cost-effective.
• Mobile Connectivity: Relying solely on Wi-Fi can be risky. Consider downloading an eSIM with a mobile data package for Uzbekistan. Most newer mobile phones support virtual SIM cards, providing reliable connectivity for navigation, communication, and digital tickets.
• Currency and Payments: While cash (Uzbek Som) is essential, consider a travel-friendly payment card like a Curve MasterCard. This type of card often provides mid-market exchange rates and no foreign transaction fees (up to a certain limit), making purchases abroad more economical. You link your existing debit or credit cards to the Curve app and use the Curve card as normal, with the transaction routed to your chosen linked card.
• Power Bank: With digital tickets, maps, and information often stored on your mobile phone, keeping it charged is vital. Carrying a reliable power bank that can recharge your phone multiple times will ensure you stay connected throughout your travels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Train Travel in Uzbekistan

Is train travel safe in Uzbekistan?

Yes, train travel in Uzbekistan is considered very safe. Stations have strict security checks, requiring passports and tickets for entry, and further security checks are performed before boarding. The trains themselves are well-maintained, and staff are professional.

How far in advance should I book train tickets?

Booking generally opens 45 days in advance. It is highly recommended to book at least one to two weeks ahead of your travel date, especially for popular routes like Tashkent to Samarkand or Bukhara, and for high-speed Afrosiyob trains, as they can sell out quickly due to demand, including from tour groups.

What are the different classes available on Uzbek trains?

On Afrosiyob high-speed trains, you can choose from VIP, Business, and Economy classes. On conventional Sharq trains, classes are typically similar to economy. For overnight sleeper trains, options include Spalny Vagon (2-berth private), Kupé (4-berth shared), and Platskartny (open-plan bunks).

Are food and drinks available on the trains?

Yes, most trains, particularly the Afrosiyob, have a restaurant or cafe car. On other services, enterprising vendors often walk through the carriages selling snacks, hot drinks, and sometimes simple meals. Even in Economy class on Afrosiyob, a complimentary tea and snack are usually provided.

Do I need a visa to enter Uzbekistan?

From February 2019, many Western nationals, including UK citizens, no longer require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. However, it's always advisable to check the latest visa requirements with the official Uzbekistan tourist information or your country's Foreign Office travel advice website before your trip.

What currency is used in Uzbekistan?

The local currency is the Uzbek Som (UZS). While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some larger establishments, cash is widely used, especially for smaller purchases, local markets, and taxis. It's wise to carry a good amount of local currency.

What should I expect upon arrival at the train station?

Be prepared for security checks. You'll need your passport and ticket to enter the station building. Allow ample time before departure for these procedures. Once inside, follow signs to your platform. Upon arrival at your destination, you can expect to find plenty of taxis and local transport options outside the station.

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