Top 10 Things to Do in Termez
Termez is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a history spanning more than two thousand years. It is a place where the legacy of the Hellenistic era intertwines with the traditions of Buddhism and Islam, leaving behind a remarkable array of architectural monuments. Amid the sun-baked plains lie the ruins of ancient Buddhist settlements and monastery complexes such as Fayaztepa, Karatepa, and Dalverzintepe. Equally striking is the Zurmala Stupa, a religious structure dating back to the Kushan Empire.
Yet Termez is not defined by its Buddhist heritage alone. The Muslim complex of Sultan Saodat, the burial site of the Termez Sayyid dynasty, impresses with its austere harmony, while the XII-century Jarkurgan Minaret captivates with the filigree precision of its detailing. Termez is truly a city where eras and cultures converge. Below, we present the top 10 sights in Termez that deserve special attention and should be at the top of your list.
1. Discover the origins of Buddhism in Uzbekistan at Karatepa
Karatepa is a Buddhist monastery complex built at the height of the Kushan Empire (I–III centuries AD) under King Kanishka I. It served as an influential religious and cultural center, playing a key role in the spread of Buddhism throughout the region. The complex spanned three hills and included both above-ground structures and a network of caves and tunnels. Within these were monasteries, temples, monastic cells, offering rooms, and meditation halls. In the IV century, Karatepa became a necropolis, where the ashes of monks and nobles were interred. After the Islamization of the region, the site was abandoned and gradually fell into ruin. Rediscovered in the XX century, Karatepa revealed valuable artifacts including coins, statuettes, and fragments of wall paintings. Today, it stands as a significant part of Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and remains an active site of archaeological research.
2. Learn about the history of Sufism at the Al-Hakim at-Termizi Complex
The Al-Hakim at-Termizi complex is a memorial ensemble centered around the tomb of the renowned Sufi theologian Abu Abdullah al-Hakim at-Termizi. Originally built in the XI century, it evolved from a modest grave into an extensive architectural complex comprising a mosque, khanaka, and chillakhana - underground chambers for spiritual retreat and prayer. The mausoleum is crowned with a dome adorned with ornamental motifs and calligraphic inscriptions. The tombstone (saghan), carved from white marble, features intricate craftsmanship. The ensemble is set within a serene garden with wide paths and also houses a museum showcasing archaeological finds from the Termez region. Revered across the Islamic world, the Al-Hakim at-Termizi complex continues to attract pilgrims and visitors seeking spiritual insight.
3. Walk around the Buddhist stupa of Zurmala
The Zurmala Stupa, built near Termez nearly two thousand years ago during the Kushan Empire, is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist monuments in the region. It served as a reliquary, housing sacred texts, figurines, and relics of the Buddha. Though partially ruined, its scale and historical significance make Zurmala a landmark of enduring importance. Standing 16 metres tall, the stupa was constructed from more than a million clay bricks. Its umbrella-shaped dome topped with a spire is a defining feature of Buddhist architecture, symbolising divine protection and the transcendence of earthly suffering.
4. Feel eternity in the Sultan Saodat mausoleum complex
The Sultan Saodat complex is a striking ensemble of mausoleums that served as the burial place of the Sayyid dynasty, descendants of the Prophet Muhammad.
The founder of the lineage, Sayyid Hasan al-Amir, is interred in the main tomb, whose monumental entrance is adorned with vibrant majolica. The ensemble includes 16 mausoleums, a mosque, and a former khanqah - a spiritual retreat for Sufis and dervishes. Constructed between the X and XVII centuries, the buildings share a unifying architectural style: lofty arched vaults, massive domes, imposing entrance portals (peshtaks), and intricate fired-brick construction. The masonry of the walls and ceilings is masterful, while the decorative elements reflect the artistry of craftsmen who transformed the site into a spiritual and architectural masterpiece.
5. Climb the walls of the Kyrk-Kyz Fortress
The Kyrk-Kyz Fortress is a mysterious monument from the IX-X centuries, whose original purpose remains the subject of scholarly debate. It may have begun as a Samanid palace before becoming a women’s madrasah where noble Muslim women pursued religious and scientific studies.
The citadel impresses with its grand scale: thick defensive walls, spacious courtyards, concealed corridors, and nearly 50 chambers. Two wide passageways lead from the main entrance and intersect at the heart of the structure. Although the upper level has not survived, much of the lower architecture remains intact. Restoration efforts are currently under way, using traditional techniques to maintain the site’s historical integrity.
6. Learn about the spread of Buddhism in Fayaztepa
The Fayaztepa temple complex, founded in the I century AD, ranks among the earliest Buddhist monuments in Central Asia. The site once included a temple, monastery, auxiliary buildings, and a stupa capped by a large dome.
The temple interiors were richly decorated with Buddhist symbols and scenes from the life of the Buddha. Archaeological excavations have uncovered terracotta statues, fragments of frescoes, and rare artefacts, including a niche with a Buddha figure and a stone bowl carved with a lotus motif. Other findings include ceramics inscribed in the Bactrian language and a plaster bas-relief featuring a solar emblem. These objects are now housed in the Museum of the History of Uzbekistan in Tashkent.
7. Travel back 2,000 years to Dalverzintepa
Dalverzintepe, one of the largest ancient settlements of Bactria, was founded more than 2,000 years ago. Spanning approximately 40 hectares, it was protected by an advanced fortification system, including towering walls, defensive towers, and surrounding moats. A citadel stood atop the central hill, with gates leading into the city’s residential and public areas. The urban layout included well-planned streets, squares, houses, bathhouses, and artisan workshops.
The homes of the city’s elite featured numerous rooms, from reception halls and private quarters to spaces for religious rites. Common citizens lived in simpler yet climate-adapted houses. Religious life also shaped the city’s character - remains of a temple, a Buddhist sanctuary, and a naus (burial structure) have been found beyond the city walls.
8. Find the Jarkurgan Minaret near Termez
Located 30 kilometres from Termez in the Surkhandarya region, the Jarkurgan Minaret is a masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture. Unlike any other minaret in Central Asia, its design blends Eastern Iranian and Indian influences with local traditions. It is distinguished by a façade of 16 semi-cylindrical columns resting on an octagonal base. Intricately arranged brickwork forms striking horizontal and vertical lines, creating a zigzag pattern - a motif found in Khorezm architecture but brought to perfection here.
9. Follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great at Kampyrtepa
Kampyrtepa is a more than 2,400-year-old city on the banks of the Amu Darya River - once known as the Oxus. It flourished as a river port, linking trade routes between India, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a complex system of fortifications, residential quarters, workshops, and storage facilities.
First identified in 1972 by archaeologist Edward Rtveladze, the site is now widely recognised as Alexandria Oxiana, a city founded by Alexander the Great during his Central Asian campaigns of 329–327 BC.
10. Hear the silence under the dome of the Kokildor-ata Khanaka
The Kokildor-ata Khanaka is a sacred religious structure rooted in Sufi tradition. It served as a spiritual retreat for seekers and dervishes. The khanaka is named after the revered Sufi sheikh Kokildor-ata, known for his theological wisdom and exceptional teaching. He spent his life guiding followers in the pursuit of divine truth. Over time, a spiritual community formed around him, and the site became a centre of pilgrimage. Scholars believe the current structure was built in the XV century, during the Timurid era, when Sufism flourished in the region.
Bonus for the most active
Termez’s appeal extends beyond its historical monuments to the surrounding landscapes, which offer unique natural experiences. For those eager to explore more of southern Uzbekistan, here are two destinations that reward the adventurous.
Khojaikon Salt Cave
Located 100 kilometres west of Termez, Khojaikon is a therapeutic salt cave nestled among dramatic cliffs and rocky terrain. Its mineral-rich microclimate has natural healing properties. A 145-metre tunnel leads into five treatment chambers, where visitors inhale salt-saturated air believed to benefit the respiratory system. Sessions typically last two to two and a half hours.
Sangardak Waterfall
Situated 180 kilometres north of Termez in the Gissar Mountains, Sangardak Waterfall is one of the region’s most spectacular natural sites. Water cascades straight from the cliff face, creating a powerful, refreshing spray - especially striking in the spring and summer months. With daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C, this oasis of cool mist is a welcome escape and a must-see for travellers exploring the wider Surkhandarya region.