Uzbekistan’s transport network has rapidly evolved since 2018, making it easier than ever for travelers to navigate the country. For Indian tourists, understanding how to get around Uzbekistan is straightforward, thanks to systems similar to those back home. Cities like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara offer a variety of options, from affordable city buses to high-speed trains connecting major destinations.
The best way to get around Uzbekistan depends on your travel style: high-speed trains like the Afrosiyob are ideal for covering long distances quickly and comfortably, while ride-hailing apps and taxis provide convenience for urban commuting. For those on a tighter budget, cheapest transport in Uzbekistan includes shared taxis (marshrutkas) and city buses, which cover most neighborhoods at very low fares.
Travelers looking for efficiency and reliability will find best transportation in Uzbekistan is a combination of trains for intercity journeys and local buses or taxis for short trips. Whether exploring bustling markets, historic Silk Road cities, or the countryside, knowing how to get around Uzbekistan ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for every traveler.
1. Public Bus
Public transportation in Uzbekistan includes an extensive network of buses serving both urban areas and intercity routes. These affordable vehicles are the backbone of daily transport for locals and budget travellers alike, particularly in Tashkent, Samarkand, and other major cities.
Highlights
- Buses in Tashkent pass by Chorsu Bazaar, offering views of this massive traditional market with its distinctive blue dome
- Routes through Tashkent showcase a mix of Soviet architecture, modern developments, and traditional Uzbek neighbourhoods
- Intercity buses travel through the scenic Zarafshan Valley between Samarkand and Bukhara, with views of rural villages and farmland
- Some routes pass ancient caravanserais and Silk Road ruins visible from the highway
Key Routes
- Tashkent city centre to Chorsu Bazaar (routes 2, 12, 80)
- Tashkent to Samarkand (4-5 hours, several daily departures)
- Bukhara to Khiva (6-7 hours, morning departures only)
- Samarkand airport to city centre (30 minutes, limited schedule)
Cost
- Urban bus fares: 1,400-2,000 UZS per journey (approximately Rs. 10-15)
- Intercity buses: 20,000-60,000 UZS depending on distance (approximately Rs. 150-450)
- No special tourist cards available; cash payment to the driver or conductor
- Multi-ride cards available for regular users in Tashkent (10,000 UZS/Rs. 75 for the card plus fare value)
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Weekends: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Frequency: Every 5-15 minutes during peak hours, 15-30 minutes during off-peak times
Pro Tips
- Download the Yandex.Maps app for real-time Tashkent bus schedules and routes
- Buses can get extremely crowded during morning and evening rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM)
- Have exact change ready, as drivers rarely provide change for large bills
- For intercity buses, arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to secure seats
Suggested Read: Uzbekistan Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide
2. Trains
Uzbekistan’s railway network is the backbone of long-distance travel, offering a reliable and comfortable way to explore the country. The highlight is the Afrosiyob high-speed train, connecting major tourist destinations like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara. For many travelers, the Afrosiyob is considered the best way to get around Uzbekistan, providing speed, convenience, and a smooth ride. This makes train travel the preferred option for both visitors and locals seeking efficient and stress-free intercity transportation.
Highlights
- The Afrosiyob high-speed train offers panoramic views of the Kyzylkum Desert and agricultural regions between Tashkent and Samarkand
- Classic overnight trains allow travellers to experience sunrise over the vast Uzbek countryside
- The Samarkand railway station blends Soviet grandeur with traditional Islamic architectural elements
- Trains from Tashkent to the Fergana Valley pass through spectacular mountain tunnels and valleys
Key Routes
- Tashkent – Samarkand (Afrosiyob high-speed train, 2 hours)
- Tashkent – Bukhara (Afrosiyob high-speed train, 3.5 hours)
- Tashkent – Khiva (overnight sleeper train to Urgench, then 30-minute taxi)
- Samarkand – Bukhara (Afrosiyob high-speed train, 1.5 hours)
Cost
- Afrosiyob high-speed train: 70,000-150,000 UZS (Rs. 520-1,100) depending on class
- Regular trains: 30,000-80,000 UZS (Rs. 220-600) depending on class and distance
- Online booking is available at the railway station. uz with international card payment
- Children under 5 travel free; 50% discount for children aged 5-10
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: First trains depart around 6:00 AM, last trains around 8:00 PM
- Weekends: Similar schedule with slightly reduced frequency
- Frequency: High-speed trains run 2-4 times daily on main routes
Pro Tips
- Book high-speed train tickets at least 3-5 days in advance during peak season (April-June and September-October)
- Bring your passport for ticket purchase and boarding
- Choose business class on Afrosiyob trains for extra comfort on longer journeys
- Pack snacks and water, as dining options on trains can be limited
3. Taxis
Taxis in Uzbekistan offer a flexible and convenient option for private travel, making them ideal for getting around cities and towns at your own pace. Traditional street taxis are widely available, but in major urban centers, ride-hailing apps have transformed how people move, providing a modern and reliable alternative. For travelers seeking the best transportation in Uzbekistan within city limits, taxis and app-based rides combine convenience, safety, and accessibility.
Highlights
- Taxis can take you directly to such sites as Registan Square in Samarkand, with drop-off at the main entrance
- Night drives through illuminated Tashkent showcase the modern skyline and lit monuments
- Taxi drivers often serve as informal guides, pointing out landmarks and sharing local knowledge
- Direct access to remote attractions like Shahrisabz from Samarkand or the Aral Sea from Nukus
Key Routes
- Tashkent International Airport to the city centre (30 minutes)
- Samarkand city centre to Registan and Shah-i-Zinda necropolis
- Bukhara railway station to the Old Town (Lyabi-Hauz area)
- Day trips from Tashkent to Charvak Reservoir or Chimgan Mountains
Cost
- City rides: 15,000-40,000 UZS (Rs. 110-300) for short to medium distances
- Airport transfers: 30,000-70,000 UZS (Rs. 220-520)
- Day hire with driver: 250,000-400,000 UZS (Rs. 1,850-3,000)
- Ride-hailing apps (Yandex Go, MyTaxi) are typically 10-15% cheaper than street taxis
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: 24/7
- Weekends: 24/7
- Frequency: Immediate availability in cities; 5-10 minute wait via apps
Pro Tips
- Use Yandex Go or MyTaxi apps in Tashkent and Samarkand for fixed fares and no haggling
- Always agree on the fare before starting your journey with street taxis
- Save your hotel address in Cyrillic script to show drivers
- Most taxis don’t have meters, so negotiation is standard practice
Suggested Read: 11 Tempting Reasons to Visit Uzbekistan
Shared taxis (locally called “marshrutka”) offer an interesting middle ground between public transportation in Uzbekistan and private taxis. They follow fixed routes but depart only when full, making them both economical and relatively fast.
Highlights
- Shared taxis between Bukhara and Samarkand pass through traditional villages, where you can see local life
- Routes to the Fergana Valley cross mountain passes with stunning views of the Tien Shan range
- Services to Nukus travel through the edges of the Kyzylkum Desert with its unique landscape
- The journey between Samarkand and Shahrisabz passes through rural communities and apple orchards
Key Routes
- Tashkent – Samarkand (4 hours, departures from Sobir Rahimov bus station)
- Samarkand – Bukhara (3 hours, from the shared taxi stand near Siab Bazaar)
- Bukhara – Khiva (6 hours, morning departures recommended)
- Tashkent – Fergana Valley cities (4-5 hours to Kokand, Andijan or Namangan)
Cost
- Fares range from 40,000-120,000 UZS (Rs. 300-900) depending on distance
- Payment in cash only, typically made to the driver before departure
- No advance booking system; pay on the spot
- Extra charges may apply for large luggage (around 5,000-10,000 UZS)
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last departures)
- Weekends: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (slightly reduced hours)
- Frequency: Depart when full, typically every 30-60 minutes on popular routes
Pro Tips
- Arrive early morning for long-distance routes to ensure same-day arrival
- Front seats cost about 10% more but offer better comfort and views
- Bring small bills as drivers rarely have change for large denominations
- For groups of 3-4 people, consider hiring the entire shared taxi for a small premium
5. Plane
Domestic flights provide the fastest transportation in Uzbekistan for covering long distances, Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel across Uzbekistan, especially when covering long distances or reaching remote regions such as Karakalpakstan in the northwest. Operated primarily by Uzbekistan Airways, these flights offer a reliable and time-efficient option for travelers who want to maximize their itinerary. For those planning how to get around Uzbekistan quickly, domestic air travel is often the preferred choice over trains or buses for long-haul routes.
Highlights
- Flights from Tashkent to Nukus offer aerial views of the shrinking Aral Sea and the surrounding desert
- The approach to Samarkand reveals the ancient city layout with its distinctive blue domes
- Flying over the Fergana Valley showcases the patchwork of agricultural fields and settlements
- The mountain backdrop of flights to Termez provides views of Uzbekistan’s southern border regions
Key Routes
- Tashkent – Samarkand (30 minutes, multiple daily flights)
- Tashkent – Bukhara (1 hour, daily flights)
- Tashkent – Urgench (for Khiva, 1.5 hours, daily flights)
- Tashkent – Nukus (2 hours, 3-4 flights weekly)
Cost
- Domestic flights: 200,000-500,000 UZS (Rs. 1,500-3,700) one-way
- Online booking available through uzairways.com or travel agencies
- Payment by card online or cash at airline offices
- Standard 20kg checked baggage allowance included in most fares
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: First flights around 7:00 AM, last flights around 9:00 PM
- Weekends: Reduced schedule, typically 1-2 fewer flights per route
- Frequency: 1-3 daily flights on main routes; 2-4 weekly on secondary routes
Pro Tips
- Book at least 2 weeks in advance for better fares, especially during high season
- Check in online 24 hours before departure to select seats
- Bring printed tickets as mobile boarding passes aren’t always accepted
- Allow 90 minutes for airport procedures at Tashkent International Airport
Suggested Read: Uzbekistan Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
6. Cycling
While not traditionally popular among tourists, cycling is gaining momentum as affordable transportation in Uzbekistan, particularly for adventurous travellers. Major cities now offer rental opportunities, though dedicated cycling infrastructure remains limited.
Highlights
- Cycling around Tashkent’s central parks and Independence Square offers views of Soviet modernist architecture
- The flat terrain of Bukhara’s old town is perfect for exploring historical sites by bicycle
- Rural roads around the Charvak Reservoir provide scenic routes with mountain backdrops
- The oasis settlements around Samarkand can be explored at a leisurely pace by bike
Key Routes
- Tashkent city park circuit (Bobur Park – Independence Square – Amir Timur Square)
- Samarkand historical sites loop (Registan – Bibi-Khanym Mosque – Shah-i-Zinda)
- Bukhara old town circuit (Lyabi-Hauz – Poi Kalyan – Ark Fortress)
- Charvak Reservoir shoreline route (seasonal, spring through autumn)
Cost
- Bike rental in tourist areas: 20,000-50,000 UZS (Rs. 150-370) per day
- Guided cycling tours: 150,000-400,000 UZS (Rs. 1,100-3,000) per day
- Security deposit required (usually 100,000-200,000 UZS)
- Helmets are typically included in the rental price
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: Rental shops open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Frequency: Daily rentals are available; guided tours typically need advance booking
Pro Tips
- Avoid cycling during summer midday heat (12-4 PM) when temperatures often exceed 40°C
- City cycling is best early morning when traffic is lighter
- Bring a good lock as bicycle theft does occur in tourist areas
- Carry plenty of water and sun protection, especially outside urban areas
Suggested Read: How to Check Uzbekistan Visa Status Online
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Uzbekistan?
The best transportation in Uzbekistan depends on your itinerary. For long distances between major cities, the high-speed Afrosiyob train offers the best balance of speed, comfort, and price. Within cities, a combination of taxis (via apps in larger cities) and walking works well for most tourists.
What is the main transportation in Uzbekistan?
Railways and roads form the backbone of transportation in Uzbekistan. The rail network connects all major cities with both high-speed and regular trains, while an extensive road system supports buses, shared taxis, and private vehicles throughout the country.
What is the cheapest way of transport in Uzbekistan?
Public buses are the most affordable transportation in Uzbekistan, with city fares starting at just 1,400 UZS (about Rs. 10). For intercity travel, shared taxis offer a good balance between cost and speed, typically costing 30-60% less than private taxis.
Is a taxi expensive in Uzbekistan?
No, private transportation in Uzbekistan via taxis is quite affordable by international standards. A 15-minute taxi ride in Tashkent costs around 15,000-25,000 UZS (Rs. 110-185), while even hour-long trips rarely exceed 100,000 UZS (Rs. 740).
Can tourists use the Uzbekistan Metro?
Yes, tourists can freely use the Tashkent Metro, the only subway system in Central Asia and a highlight of public transportation in Uzbekistan. Since 2018, photography restrictions have been lifted, making the ornate Soviet-designed stations popular attractions themselves. Tickets cost just 1,400 UZS (Rs. 10) per ride.
What currency is used in Uzbekistan?
The official currency is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). For transportation and daily expenses, including buses and taxis, it’s handy to carry cash. As of 2025, 1 Indian Rupee equals roughly 135 UZS. ATMs are widely available in major cities.
Are taxis in Uzbekistan expensive?
Taxis are affordable and convenient. A typical 10 km ride costs around 30,000–40,000 UZS (₹220–300). Ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go or MyTaxi in major cities help ensure transparent pricing.
Are buses cheap in Uzbekistan?
Buses are the cheapest mode of transport. Urban rides start from 1,400 UZS (₹10), while intercity buses range from 20,000–60,000 UZS (₹150–450) depending on distance, making them perfect for budget travelers.
