I recently got invited by Osmon Aero, a travel management company from Tashkent to visit their beautiful home country Uzbekistan. I took 2 flights starting from Sabah to get there. 2 hours 30 minutes from KK to KL then 7 hours from KL to Tashkent. The flight from from KL to Tashkent was a midnight flight but got delay for 3 hours which later we able to witness a magical sunrise over the Tajikistan mountains during the flight.
Introduction of Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Turkmenistan to the southwest, Kyrgyzstan to the northeast, Tajikistan to the southeast, and Afghanistan to the south. It has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with a legacy that stretches back centuries.
One of the most famous landmarks in Uzbekistan is the ancient city of Samarkand, which has been a center of trade and culture for over 2,000 years. Samarkand is home to stunning architectural monuments, including the Registan Square, a complex of three madrasahs (Islamic schools) that date back to the 15th and 17th centuries. The city also has a vibrant bazaar, where visitors can sample local food and purchase traditional Uzbek crafts.
Another notable city in Uzbekistan is Bukhara, which has been continuously inhabited for over 2,500 years. Bukhara is known for its well-preserved historic center, which features numerous Islamic monuments and buildings, including the Kalyan Minaret, a towering brick structure that dates back to the 12th century.
In addition to its cultural and historical heritage, Uzbekistan is also known for its natural beauty. The country has a diverse landscape that includes deserts, mountains, and fertile valleys. One of the most scenic regions in Uzbekistan is the Fergana Valley, which is known for its picturesque villages, colorful markets, and agricultural traditions.
Uzbekistan is also a country of diverse ethnic groups and languages. Uzbek is the official language, but many Uzbeks also speak Russian and other languages. The country has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes that are influenced by Persian, Russian, and Chinese cuisine.
The food
Uzbekistan’s cuisine is a reflection of its long history, diverse culture, and unique geography. Located in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan’s food is influenced by its neighbors, such as Russia, China, and Iran. Uzbekistan’s cuisine is known for its rich flavors, bold spices, and hearty portions.
One of the most popular dishes in Uzbek cuisine is plov, a rice dish that is typically made with lamb, onions, and carrots. Plov is often served at weddings and other special occasions and is a staple of Uzbek cuisine. Another popular dish is shashlik, grilled meat that is served on skewers and seasoned with spices.
Uzbek cuisine also features a variety of soups, such as shurpa, a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices. The soup is typically served with bread, and it’s a popular dish during the colder months.
Bread, or non, is an essential part of Uzbek cuisine. Non is a traditional Uzbek bread that is typically baked in a tandoor oven and served with every meal. Uzbekistan’s bread is known for its fluffy texture and crispy crust.
In addition to its savory dishes, Uzbek cuisine also features a variety of sweet treats. One popular dessert is halva, a sweet dish made with ground sesame seeds and sugar. Another popular dessert is chak-chak, a sweet and crunchy pastry that is made with flour, honey, and nuts.
Overall, Uzbek cuisine is a reflection of the country’s rich history, culture, and geography. With its bold flavors, hearty portions, and unique dishes, Uzbekistan’s food is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Central Asia.
Conclusion
Overall, Uzbekistan is a fascinating country with a rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient monuments, sampling delicious food, or simply enjoying the hospitality of the Uzbek people, there is much to discover in this unique and vibrant nation.
I would like to give a big thank you to Uzbekistan Embassy in Malaysia for the kind assistant to make this trip possible.
With a passion for travel, Jollence has embarked on numerous journeys to countries such as Uzbekistan, Indonesia, China, Singapore, Philippines, Nepal, and Dubai for a different kind of adventures where he also captured dozens of breathtaking travel photos and videos.
