For the best panoramic views of Khiva’s golden skyline, climb the iconic Islam Khoja Minaret, the tallest structure in the city. Built in 1910, the minaret towers over Itchan Kala at nearly 60 meters high, tapering gracefully with glazed turquoise bands that shimmer under the desert sun. The climb through its narrow spiral staircase is steep, but the reward is a breathtaking 360-degree view of domes, courtyards, and fortress walls stretching across the Khorazmian landscape. From the top, you'll witness how this ancient city merges with the surrounding desert, offering a photographer’s dream and a true sense of place.

The Kunya Ark was once the beating heart of Khiva’s political and royal life. This fortified palace complex, founded in the 17th century, housed the khans of Khiva and their court, complete with throne rooms, royal mosques, stables, mint, and even a prison. Today, visitors can explore these atmospheric ruins and restored chambers, learning about the court rituals, punishments, and ceremonies that took place within its high walls. Don’t miss the observation platform for panoramic views over Itchan Kala or the tiled iwan (porch) of the throne room, which beautifully displays Khiva’s artistic mastery.

Unique among Central Asian mosques, Juma Mosque is a masterpiece of simplicity and atmosphere. Unlike grand domes and towering minarets, this 10th-century mosque captivates with its flat roof supported by 213 carved wooden columns, many of which are centuries old. As sunlight filters through small openings, shadows dance across the polished stone floor and the lattice of timber, creating a mystical, meditative space. Each column tells a story—some are repurposed from older buildings, others display floral, geometric, or Arabic designs. It’s a quiet retreat that invites reflection and a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Just a short drive from Khiva, the windswept plains of Karakalpakstan hide some of Central Asia’s most awe-inspiring ancient ruins — the desert fortresses of Ayaz Kala and Toprak Kala. These remnants of the Khorezm civilization date back over 2,000 years and offer a glimpse into the region’s pre-Islamic past. Toprak Kala, once a bustling capital, reveals palace walls, temples, and a planned city layout, while Ayaz Kala, perched dramatically on a hilltop, offers panoramic desert views and the rugged romance of ancient frontier life. A visit to these sites feels like stepping into another world, where silence, wind, and crumbling clay walls whisper tales of forgotten empires. It’s a perfect half-day or full-day excursion for those seeking adventure, archaeology, and breathtaking desert scenery.