Termez Unveiled: Discovering Uzbekistan’s Southernmost Hidden Gem

This city tells the tales of past conquerors, with the whispers of history resonating through its streets, and the ground beneath your feet steeped in legends. Welcome to the southernmost city of Temez in Uzbekistan. It is a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders, quietly and proudly located on the edge of the Amu Darya River, attracting brave travelers to uncover its secrets.

Termez – a city rich in history

Termez, Sometimes spelled Termiz, it is not only a gateway to Afghanistan, but also a destination with rich attractions ranging from ancient Buddhist temples to medieval tombs. This city has been included in the tentative UNESCO World Heritage List and is an archaeological gold mine for history enthusiasts. Here, the stories of Greek veterans, Buddhist monks, Arab and Mongolian aggressors, international merchants, and intelligent wanderers are intertwined with the legendary Silk Road.

Nowadays, this city with over 130000 residents may only see some traces of its rich and colorful international history, but the landscape on the outskirts of the city, as well as ancient monuments and ruins, are witnesses to its glorious history. Talmez has always been a political and cultural chameleon throughout his epic history, and as an experienced performer, he can easily adapt and transform various eras.

The history of Termez is indeed fascinating, and its origin can be traced back to the conquest of Alexander the Great in the late 4th century BC. The region flourished under the rule of the Greek Bactrian Kingdom and became a fusion of Mediterranean, Indian, Persian, Chinese, and Central Asian cultures. It is the center of Buddhism and Gandharan art, where Greek Buddhism, which combines Indian Buddhism and Greek influence, flourishes.

From the 1st to the 4th century AD, Buddhism, as a part of the Guishuang Empire, further spread to China. However, after the decline of the Kusana Empire, the region went through a series of rulers until it became part of the Arab Caliphate in the 8th century. Arab general Musa ibn Qasim occupied Termez in 689 AD, but was expelled by Caliph Usman in 704 AD. Subsequently, the city began to look towards Central Asia rather than towards Afghanistan to the south.

Termez was conquered by the Mongols of Genghis Khan in the 13th century, resulting in the destruction of the ancient city. The current city of Temuz appeared in the 14th century and was part of the Timurid Empire, located a few kilometers southeast of its original site. Termez’s third and current iteration is a product of the 19th century, evolving from a Russian outpost on the southernmost border of the Russian Empire.

Excellent geographical location of Termez

Termez has good connections with other destinations within Uzbekistan, although the journey may be long. It is approximately 375 kilometers away from Samarkand, 380 kilometers away from Bukhara, 660 kilometers away from Tashkent, 855 kilometers away from Shiva, and 900 kilometers away from Namangan. Going to Temetz itself is an adventure, and you can choose to take a plane, train, bus, or taxi.

By plane, Uzbekistan Airlines operates two flights per day from Tashkent to Termez, with a flight time of 1 hour and 45 minutes. Telmez Airport is a short drive from the city center. It takes about 14 hours by train from Tashkent, and there is also regular service to Deno. The train station is located at the northern end of the city, with convenient transportation. Tashkent and Samarkand also have daily bus and shared taxi operations, providing a faster but more expensive alternative.

A diverse range of Islamic and pre-Islamic landmarks

Once you arrive at Temetz, this modern city may remind you of an ordinary Soviet city, but what attracts tourists is the ancient buildings in the area. The Termez Archaeological Museum is a must visit place, showcasing unique architectural relics from the Kushan period, including the highly valuable complex of Erlatan Buddhist temples. The museum’s exhibitions are concentrated during the Buddhist period and several centuries BC, featuring household items, weapons, coins, stamps, paintings, and antique sculptures.

The Sultan Zaoda complex is located 8 kilometers northeast of modern Termez and consists of 17 tombs. It is the burial ground of the Termez Said family, and the Termez Said dynasty is a dynasty claiming to have originated from Ali. The architecture and history of this architectural complex demonstrate the political and religious influence of the family.

The Kirk Kiz Fortress, located next to the airport in the northeast of modern Telmez, is shrouded in legendary colors. This fortress can be traced back to the 9th century and is a model of pre Arab architecture. Tourists can explore the remaining buildings and imagine the grandeur of the fortress’s heyday.

Old Termez is located 6 kilometers northwest of modern cities, providing a glimpse into the scale and strength of primitive cities. The settlement used to have a mint, caravan, orchard, and a complex irrigation network. Nowadays, tourists can see the ruins of ancient castles and Buddhist temples, including the Karatepa Cave Temple and the sacred Fayazitpa Monastery.

The name of the Afghanistan Uzbekistan Friendship Bridge is quite ironic, as it deeply reminds people of the turbulent history of the region. It was built during the Soviet era and was the main entry point for Soviet troops into Afghanistan in 1979, as well as the exit point for Soviet troops to withdraw ten years later.

Although Temez may not be on an ordinary track, it offers a variety of Islamic and pre Islamic attractions, as well as excitement near the Ox (Amu Darya) and the Afghan border. For those seeking unique and rich travel experiences, Temez is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Telmez is an unexpected city with rich history and culture. This is a place that existed forever in the past, and the spirit of adventure still exists. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an archaeologist deep down in your heart, or just a traveler searching for rare paths, Temez is a destination full of charm and inspiration. So, pack your luggage and turn your gaze to the southernmost city of Uzbekistan, ready to be amazed by the wonders of Temez.

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15 Things to See and Do in Termez, Uzbekistan
Wikipedia