The Big Update: A New Visa Exemption
The most significant update for Indian travellers is a new rule that simplifies entry into Uzbekistan. Effective from September 1, 2026, Indian citizens who hold a valid multiple-entry visa for certain developed countries can enter Uzbekistan visa-free
for up to 30 days. The list of eligible visas includes those issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, Schengen Agreement member states, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea. This development, announced following high-level talks between the leaders of India and Uzbekistan, is a major step towards boosting tourism and business ties. For many frequent international travellers in India, this removes a key step in the travel planning process, making spontaneous trips to the heart of Central Asia a real possibility.
What You Need To Know Before You Go
While the new rule provides a visa exemption, it is not a completely document-free pass. To take advantage of this 30-day visa-free stay, eligible Indian travellers must meet two crucial conditions. First, you must hold a valid multiple-entry visa from one of the specified countries. Second, you are required to have a confirmed air ticket for your return flight to India or an onward flight to a third country. The Indian Embassy in Tashkent has confirmed these requirements. It is important to note that this policy applies only to those with the specified visas; other Indian citizens will still need to obtain an appropriate visa, such as the straightforward e-visa, before their trip. Always carry printouts of your supporting documents, including your eligible visa and flight itinerary.
Why Uzbekistan Is Calling to Indian Travellers
This travel update comes as Uzbekistan's popularity among Indian tourists is already on the rise. The country offers a unique blend of history, culture, and affordability that deeply resonates with travellers from India. The historical ties, stretching back to the Mughal era, create a sense of familiarity and connection. For many, walking through the ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva is like stepping into a living history book. These UNESCO World Heritage sites, with their majestic madrasas, intricate tilework, and sprawling public squares like the Registan, offer architectural grandeur that rivals famous European destinations but with fewer crowds and at a lower cost. Over 80,000 Indian tourists visited in 2025, a number expected to grow with easier access.
Improved Connectivity Makes It Even Easier
Getting to Uzbekistan has also become much more convenient. Around 14 direct flights now operate between India and Uzbekistan every week, a testament to the growing relationship. In a significant boost for travellers from South India, Centrum Air recently launched a new direct flight service between Hyderabad and Tashkent, operating twice weekly. This new route is seen as an 'air bridge' that will strengthen ties in tourism, business, and even healthcare, given Hyderabad's status as a medical hub. With existing direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai, this expanding network makes the fabled cities of the Silk Road more accessible than ever from multiple points across India.
Planning Your Silk Road Adventure
A typical week-long itinerary allows you to experience the country's highlights without feeling rushed. Most travellers fly into the capital, Tashkent, a modern city with Soviet-era architecture, bustling bazaars like Chorsu, and a stunning metro system where each station is a work of art. From there, high-speed trains connect you to the historical heart of the country. Spend at least two days in Samarkand to fully appreciate the scale of Registan Square and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis. Then, travel to Bukhara, a city that feels like an open-air museum with its preserved old town and the iconic Kalyan Minaret. With the Indian Rupee offering strong value against the Uzbek Som, your budget for food, transport, and souvenirs will stretch surprisingly far, making it a rewarding and affordable international destination.
