Silk Road Revival in Bukhara
Photos: Clarissa Tan
Every year in late May or early June, Bukhara—one of the most ancient Silk Road cities—hosts the Silk and Spices Festival. This vibrant two-day event features over 200 artisans from across Uzbekistan and beyond, including Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Russia. Visitors can explore a colorful array of ceramics, jewelry, traditional foods, and of course, silk and spices.
The festival kicks off with a lively opening parade, featuring guards on horseback (and even a camel!), playing traditional Uzbek instruments, and waving the nation’s flags. Over the next two days, visitors are free to shop, eat, and wander the historic streets of Old Bukhara, where nightly celebrations light up the main square. Be prepared to wear colorful traditional clothing, take part in singing and dancing, and most importantly, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the magic!
In 2023, Bukhara’s Silk and Spices Festival drew more than 10,000 international visitors, 15,000 domestic travelers, and over half a million local residents. This year, the number of tourists surpassed 50,000, with attendees coming from both abroad and across Uzbekistan. With a history spanning more than 20 years, the festival continues to grow as one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events.
The festival is organized by Bukhara’s Administrative Region, the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Tourism Development, and various travel agencies. Its mission is to preserve Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, foster cultural exchange with visitors, and promote the country as a rising tourism destination.
