Understanding the New Visa-Free Policy
In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen ties, Uzbekistan has introduced a 30-day visa-free regime for Indian citizens. This policy, announced at the end of August 2026, allows Indian passport holders to enter Uzbekistan for up to 30 days
for tourism or business without needing to apply for a visa beforehand. Previously, travellers from India had to secure an e-visa online. However, it is crucial for travellers to note that while the announcement has been made, an official start date for the policy to become operational was still pending as of early September 2026. Before making non-refundable bookings, it is essential to check for the official implementation notice from the Embassy of Uzbekistan or other official government channels. Once in effect, this will remove a key step in the travel planning process, making spontaneous trips to the heart of Central Asia much simpler.
Conditional Entry Also Eased
Alongside the broader announcement, a separate decree that took effect on September 1, 2026, offers another path for some Indian travellers. Indian citizens who hold a valid, multiple-entry visa for countries such as the USA, UK, Schengen nations, Australia, Canada, or Japan can also enter Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days. This rule requires the traveller to also possess an air ticket to their home country or a third country. This provides an immediate benefit for many Indians who frequently travel internationally, even before the general visa-free policy is fully implemented.
Getting There: Flights and Connectivity
Reaching Uzbekistan from India is straightforward. Direct flights operate from Delhi to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, with airlines like IndiGo and Uzbekistan Airways. The flight duration is just over three hours, making it a surprisingly short journey. Currently, there are around 14 direct flights operating between the two countries every week, a number that may grow with the expected increase in tourism. For those in other major Indian cities, connecting flights via Delhi are readily available. Another convenient development for Indian visitors is the planned integration of UPI payments, which will allow travellers to use UPI-enabled apps for payments at many merchants across Uzbekistan.
Crafting Your Silk Road Itinerary
With 30 days at your disposal, you can explore Uzbekistan at a leisurely pace. The classic tourist trail covers three main UNESCO World Heritage cities. Start in the modern capital, Tashkent, known for its grand metro stations and bustling Chorsu Bazaar. From there, take a high-speed train to the fabled city of Samarkand. Here, the majestic Registan Square, the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, and the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum await. Another train ride will take you to Bukhara, a city that feels like an open-air museum, with its ancient Poi Kalon Complex and the Ark of Bukhara fortress. For those with more time, the ancient walled city of Khiva in the west offers a perfectly preserved glimpse into a bygone era. A 7 to 10-day trip is usually sufficient to cover these main highlights comfortably.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant. Summers are very hot and winters can be cold. The local currency is the Uzbekistani Som, and while credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in Tashkent, it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller towns and bazaars. While English is not widely spoken outside of major tourist hubs, you'll find the people to be incredibly hospitable. For food, you must try the national dish, Plov (a rice pilaf with meat and vegetables), and Samsa (baked savoury pastries). When visiting mosques and religious sites, remember to dress modestly out of respect for local customs.
