Bozori Kord Hammam, Bukhara
The Bozori Kord Hammam was built in the 14th century, and has been in regular use ever since. The hammam experience may be one of the most memorable ones of your trip. You will immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions, and will experience the "real Bukhara". This will take you beyond the souvenir shops and tour guides, and will put you in contact with the way people really live in Bukhara.
After a long day of walking, a deep muscle massage is exactly what you need. Masseurs will introduce you to the secrets of Oriental Massage.
Bath: The bath in the hammam is a self-service affair. This option is available only during normal working hours: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday-Monday (closed Tuesdays). You can sit in the steam rooms as long as you wish, and can use the plastic buckets to get your own water. As part of the price, we will provide for you the use of a clean towel, a lungi (wrap-around cloth to cover yourself while in the hammam), and sandals (the floor can get quite hot in spots, plus the marble can be slippery when walking barefoot). After your bath, you can sit in the changing room and sip tea with the other guests.
Bath and Massage: You will be guided into the hammam by an assistant who will show you where to sit, how to get water, and how to relax in the hot room. The assistant will leave you alone in the hot room for thirty minutes or so, until the pores of your skin are open and your skin begins to breathe and self-clean. The vapors will clean out your lungs and sinuses, and your muscles will begin to relax. After you are nice and sweaty, the assistant will come back and guide you to a heated platform in a warm room where you will lie down for a 20-30 minute massage. Please note that if the marble is too hot for your comfort there are other parts of the hammam that are cooler and you can request to move to a cooler place. The assistant will tell you how to lie and which way to face. Do not be surprised if during the massage he sits on you or stands on you. This is how massages are done in Bukhara!
After your massage, you can bathe yourself. The assistant will bring you warm water and will pour one bucket of water on you to rinse off the soap. After that you should relax in the cool room for a few minutes before coming out, in order to allow your body to adjust slowly to the temperature changes. Afterwards, you may go to the changing room to sip some tea, relax, and chat with the other guests.
Deluxe Bath and Massage: You will be guided into the hammam by an assistant who will show you where to sit, how to get water, and how to relax in the hot room. The assistant will leave you alone in the hot room for thirty minutes or so, until the pores of your skin are open and your skin begins to breathe and self-clean. The vapors will clean out your lungs and sinuses, and your muscles will begin to relax.
The second step is a special deep cleaning with the traditional "halta." After this, you will begin the first massage: which is the same as the Bath and Massage. Following your first massage as described above, you will relax in the cool room. The assistant will leave you for 15-20 minutes before returning with soap and shampoo. He will then proceed with a second 20 minute massage, soaping you up you as you get a relaxing massage. Please note that you will wash your own personal areas, though! He will then pour several buckets of warm water, allowing you to rinse off at leisure before exiting to the changing room where you can sip tea with the other guests.
Spice massage: The curative powers of spices are well-known in the Orient. You may choose from an array of spices that will not only soothe your body but also calm your spirit with pleasant scents.
Incense: You may choose to request that the assistant burn incense in the massage hall while you receive your massage to enhance the relaxation experience.
Working schedule: Men: regular hours: Wed-Mon 7-3 pm evenings: by reservation only
Women: evenings by reservation only. Female masseuses available upon request.
