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Shakhrisabz, a historic city in the Kashkadarya region of Uzbekistan, has steadily been making its mark as a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the country's rich cultural heritage. Known for its connection to the legendary conqueror Amir Timur (also known as Tamerlane), Shakhrisabz is not only a significant historical site but also an extraordinary place to witness the timeless beauty of Timurid architecture. As more travelers seek unique destinations beyond the usual tourist hubs, Shakhrisabz's combination of stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and traditional experiences make it an increasingly popular choice. A Journey to Shakhrisabz: From Samarkand to the Timurid Legacy Travelers heading to Shakhrisabz from the more frequently visited city of Samarkand can expect a scenic drive across the Takhta Karacha Pass, also known as Kitob or Aman-Kutan. This steep and winding road, rising to an altitude of 1,650 meters (5,400 feet), offers a breathtaking view of the Zarafshan mountain range. The pass is narrow and unsuitable for large vehicles, adding to its charm as a route reserved for smaller cars. Along the way, markets and roadside stalls sell an assortment of snacks, including kurt (fermented milk balls) - a popular, if acquired, treat for those traveling the ancient Silk Road routes. Once crossing the pass, the valley below reveals restaurants with panoramic views, serving delicious shashlik (grilled meat skewers), offering an authentic taste of the region. Architectural Wonders and Historical Significance Shakhrisabz is famous for being the birthplace of Amir Timur, and its historical significance is showcased in the grandeur of its Timurid-era architecture. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Ak-Saray Palace, which, despite its ruinous state, remains a testament to Timur's architectural vision. Built over 24 years, the palace's entrance portal once stood 38 meters high, adorned with intricate tiles and designs. Today, only the two massive gate remains, providing visitors with a striking glimpse of what was once the grandest palace of the region. Although these ruins are less maintained compared to the monuments in Samarkand, they offer an intimate connection to the past that visitors find both awe-inspiring and humbling. The nearby statue of Timur, erected in the city after Uzbekistan's independence in 1994, further emphasizes his lasting legacy. The statue, which depicts Timur standing proudly, oversees a park filled with fountains and gardens. This memorial, one of three dedicated to the historical figure in Uzbekistan, represents the deep reverence the country holds for its founder. For visitors, this statue marks the beginning of a journey through the city's other remarkable sites, such as the Kok-Gumbaz Mosque and the Dorut Tilovat complex, home to several tombs and a madrassa. Shakhrisabz's Modern Charm: Culture and Crafts While the city is small in size, its cultural significance cannot be overstated. The Dorut Tilovat complex, with its stunning turquoise dome and beautifully tiled seminary, is a must-visit for those wishing to connect more deeply with the city's rich cultural history. The nearby caravanserai, once a resting place for traders, now serves as an events hall and restaurant, preserving the city's long-standing tradition of hospitality. For those interested in the region's handicrafts, Shakhrisabz offers a glimpse into local traditions through its vibrant artisan community. Women in the city can be seen quilting traditional cushions and jackets, creating beautiful, handmade products that embody the city's artistic spirit. The Art Gallery of Aziz Akhmedov offers visitors a chance to purchase modern and traditional art while enjoying a good cup of coffee -- a rarity in a predominantly tea-drinking culture. The Impact on Global Travel: A Hidden Gem in Uzbekistan For travelers seeking to expand their horizons beyond the usual tourist paths, Shakhrisabz represents an unspoiled gem. Its combination of historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences is now increasingly drawing the attention of global globetrotters. As Uzbekistan continues to grow in popularity as a tourist destination, Shakhrisabz's role as a cultural and historical hub will likely contribute to the country's rising status in global travel. Tour operators, such as GetYourGuide, have already recognized the importance of Shakhrisabz as a key stop on any trip to Uzbekistan. The opportunity to visit a UNESCO World Heritage site, see Timurid-era monuments up close, and learn about the region's deep historical roots has made this small city an integral part of the Uzbekistan travel experience. Why Shakhrisabz Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List As Uzbekistan continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, Shakhrisabz stands out as a place where ancient history and vibrant local life converge. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Shakhrisabz promises to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience. The city's relatively untouched character, with its quieter streets and simpler pace of life, offers a unique contrast to the more bustling cities of Samarkand and Bukhara. With its fascinating historical context, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Shakhrisabz is a destination that is likely to grow in popularity in the coming years. For those planning a trip to Uzbekistan, a stop in Shakhrisabz is not to be missed.
A temple locked since 1978 communal riots in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has been reopened by authorities during an anti-encroachment drive. The Bhasma Shankar temple, containing idols of Lord Hanuman and a Shivling, was rediscovered during an electricity theft inspection. This follows recent violence and heightened tensions in the area, including a mosque survey dispute and loudspeaker fine.The Sambhal administration here on Saturday uncovered and reopened a temple, which is said to have been closed ...Read More >
NEW DELHI: Axiom-4 crew members, including Shubhanshu Shukla, were welcomed with hugs and drinks as they stepped into the International Space Station on Thursday. The newly launched spacecraft -- the fifth in the Dragon series and named Grace -- successfully completed a soft docking with the International Space Station at 4.01pm while orbiting above the North Atlantic Ocean."At 6:31 am EDT (4:01 IST) on Thursday, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked to the International Space Station for the fourth private astronaut mission to the orbiting laboratory, Axiom Mission 4," the National Aeronautics ...Read More >
GURGAON: The investigation into the murder of a 25-year-old former international tennis player, allegedly by her father, has revealed a sudden deterioration in their relationship. The apparent reason was a disagreement over the academy she ran near their house, but the roots clearly run deeper. The father, who claims to have spent Rs 2 crore on his daughter's tennis career, told interrogators he was troubled by questions about her "character" that some of his associates had raised.Deepak Yadav, who shot Radhika at their house Thursday morning, had allegedly been insisting for two weeks on her ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 12 (ANI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday extended his congratulations to the followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj following the recognition of 12 forts associated with the Maratha king as UNESCO World Heritage sites. 'I congratulate the followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on this historic achievement. I express my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for nominating these forts for UNESCO recognition. I am confident that these forts will now attract more tourists, and our glorious history will be known across the globe, ...Read More >
Gingee Fort is fortified with high walls, deep moats, and hidden passageways ShowQuick Read Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed The fort is located in Viluppuram district and spans three rocky hills with strong fortificationsIts origins date to the 9th century with additions by Cholas, Vijayanagara, Marathas, Mughals, French, BritishRajaram Chhatrapati used Gingee Fort as a key Maratha resistance outpost during the 17th-century siege Did our AI summary help? Let us know. Chennai: Ta ...Read More >
Srinagar, Jul 19 (PTI) Exports of handmade products from Kashmir have crossed the Rs 300 crore mark in the first quarter of the current financial year, which is the highest for the period in the last four years, an official said on Saturday. "In a major fillip to Kashmir's famed craft sector, hand-made products worth Rs 309.62 crore have been exported to various overseas destinations in the first quarter of the current financial year -- up from Rs 126.90 crore in the same quarter last year," an official of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, said. The exports are the highest fo ...Read More >
Srinagar, June 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said that the ongoing Buyer-Seller Meet in Kashmir is not aimed at attracting tourists but at forging meaningful trade relationships that support local artisans and strengthen the region's handicrafts economy. "Tourists don't come for buyer-seller meets anywhere. This event is meant for buyers -- both domestic and international -- who are here to source in bulk, not to make one-off purchases," Omar said while speaking to reporters at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), the venue of the Buyer-Seller Meet-2025. T ...Read More >
This is a Mint Premium article gifted to you. Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. New Delhi: The debate on laboratory-grown meat, dairy, and egg products may soon be settled, with the issue reaching India's apex food regulator, three people aware of the development said. The development comes in the backdrop of concerns about public health, food security and ecological sustainability. While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put in place a regulatory framework for plant-based protein products, manufacturers and sellers of fermentation-derived and cultivated protein ...Read More >
Also Read | Sambhal sparks rift: INDIA bloc allies face leadership turmoil? "Multiple encroachments are being seen around the area," Sambhal DM Rajendra Pensia told ANI. Pensia said, "There was encroachment on roads, sewers, water bodies, and that too for a long time. We are undertaking an 'abhiyan' (drive) to fix it. We launched a campaign in Chandausi and we had decided we would start the campaign here in November. But we could not start." The DM stated the anti-encroachment drive will conti ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jun 28 (PTI) Following the backlash after featuring footwear strongly resembling Kolhapuri chappals, Italian fashion house Prada has acknowledged that it was inspired by the Indian handcrafted footwear. "We acknowledge that the sandals featured in the recent Prada Men's 2026 Fashion Show are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage. "We deeply recognize the cultural significance of such Indian craftsmanship," said Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, in a letter to Lalit Gandhi, president of Maharashtra Chamb ...Read More >
Shimla: Heavy rains lashed Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, triggering landslides and flash floods and blocking more than 100 roads, even as the weather department issued a red alert.A landslide at Chakki Mod near Parwanoo blocked the Chandigarh-Shimla highway for hours, resulting in a massive traffic jam Sunday morning. The local administration had to divert traffic through the Jangeshu link road until the landslide debris was cleared at Chakki Mod.The traffic was first restored one-way and later two-way, but the traffic jam continued on both sides of the highway throughout the day due to slow veh ...Read More >
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], July 16 (ANI): Following the tragic road accident in the Muwani area of Pithoragarh district on Tuesday that claimed eight lives, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that the state government would provide Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. This would be in addition to the ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which would be given to the next of kin of the deceased. Also Read | Weather Forecast Today, July 16: Check ...Read More >
Pune: The Indian Gig Workers' Front on Saturday evening suspended the ongoing strike of cabs and autorickshaws operating on applications till Tuesday, after leaving many commuters, including those arriving at the airport on Saturday morning, hassled. Keshav Kshirsagar, the president of the front, said, "We have a meeting on Tuesday with senior officials of the state transport department. If its decisions don't meet our expectations, the strike will resume." Several commuters had a harrowing experience on roads on Friday and in the early hours of Saturday. Cabs and autos were hard to come by. T ...Read More >
Sambhal (UP), Dec 15 (PTI) Weeks after violent clashes over a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid claimed four lives, the district administration has launched a campaign against encroachments and illegal power theft in the area around the historic mosque. As part of its efforts, the administration began removing encroachments from the area on Sunday morning. According to Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra, the focus is on clearing drains outside houses and shops in the area under the Nakhasa police station. The area is close to the residence of Samajwadi Part ...Read More >
Mumbai : Filmmaker Subhash Ghai recently took a trip down memory lane as he remembered the late actor Irrfan Khan. Ghai shared an old photo from an award ceremony with the actor, along with an emotional note that quickly caught the attention of fans online. In the photo, Ghai and Irrfan can be seen smiling. Ghai, who worked with Irrfan in the film 'Right Yaa Wrong,' took to his Instagram account to share a post praising him not just as an actor but as someone who deeply understood the art of storytelling. He wrote, "I have always been more in admiration of good and great actors than just co ...Read More >
New Delhi: Picking up from where he left off during his last visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent tour abroad presented his hosts with gifts that reflect India's deep cultural and spiritual roots, along with its handcrafted excellence, reports Manash Gohain.From a 'silver replica of the Ayodhya Ram Temple' to a 'Kalash' (a sanctified vessel) containing sacred water from the River Sarayu, and from a 'silver lion mounted on a Fuchsite stone' to a 'Madhubani painting of the Sun,' Modi's gifts to the leaders of Trinidad and Tobago and Argentina this week went beyond diplomatic pro ...Read More >
Neiphiu Rio (left) during the opening of the new State Emporium Complex in Kohima on Friday Sourced by the Telegraph Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday inaugurated a seven-storey facility in Kohima to serve as a hub for Naga handloom, handicrafts and cultural promotion. The Nagaland State Emporium Complex includes a dedicated state emporium on the first floor, three floors of shopping areas, a restaurant and library, a fully furnished conference hall and guest accommodations for visiting artisans and officials. At the inauguration, Rio expressed his appreciation for all those inv ...Read More >
Kohima, July 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described his state as "a land of breathtaking beauty and profound cultural richness" while addressing the closing ceremony of 'Bharat Utsav 2025' at Manezhnaya Square in Moscow. The Chief Minister stated that the festival's grand success has brought India and Russia closer, showcasing the "magic of Indian culture, music, dance, yoga, and cuisine". The event featured special highlights from Nagaland and Gujarat, with vibrant cultural performances and exhibitions. Highlighting the enduring and strategic partnership between ...Read More >
Guwahati: Amid Assam's most aggressive land reclamation drive to date, chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he has ordered a sweeping crackdown on forest encroachments across all districts of the state.He said here on Friday that all district commissioners have been tasked with conducting immediate surveys and initiating evictions, sparing only those protected under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 (Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006). Th ...Read More >
New Delhi, Dec 3 (PTI) The Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid on Tuesday described as "reprehensible" the alleged mistreatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and asked that country's interim government to take immediate steps to prevent such acts. India has been expressing concerns over attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh, since Sheikh Hasina's resignation as prime minister in August following months-long students-led protests. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi To Visit Sambhal: DM Requests Neighbouring Districts To Restrict Congress Leader's Proposed Visit to Violence-Hit Town. ...Read More >
Gandhinagar: In households in Gujarat's cities, cereals may take up less space in the grocery bill, but they still dominate the dinner plate. A new Union govt report shows that cereals, while accounting for just 3.8% of household spending, supply 35% of total calorie intake in cities. In villages, their role is even more dominant, making up 43% of calorie consumption while accounting for 4.5% of total spending.Cereals also account for a major portion of protein intake for people in Gujarat.These insights come from the Centre's latest "Nutritional Intake in India" report, which tracks food patt ...Read More >
Jammu, Jul 18 (PTI) Senior officials of the Jammu and Kashmir government reviewed the arrangements for the smooth conduct of the 13-day-long Budha Amarnath pilgrimage in Poonch district that will begin on July 28. Deputy Inspector General of Police Tejinder Singh reviewed security in Poonch and stressed ensuring the safety of the devotees. "The first batch will depart from the Bhagwati Nagar basecamp in Jammu on July 28, moving towards the Mandi tehsil in Poonch in a regulated convoy amid full security arrangements," a spokesperson said. Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Inspec ...Read More >
Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose 7.5 per cent year-on-year to Rs 1.96 lakh crore in July (for sales in June), data released by the government on Friday showed. Even though the pace of growth in gross GST collections picked up to 7.5 per cent in July from 6.2 per cent, this is the second consecutive month wherein the growth rate has been in single digits and much lower after posting double-digit growth in the first two months of the ongoing financial year. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO Net GST collections, after accounting for refunds, took a hit by growing by just 1.7 per ...Read More >
Guwahati, November 27 (IANS): Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday underscored the northeastern region's legacy, cultural diversity, and natural wealth emphasising its rich cuisine, crafts and biodiversity while inaugurating the 12th edition of the four-day long International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Assam's Kaziranga. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said that the ITM is a remarkable opportunity for the northeast India to showcase its rich culture and diversity to the world, adding that the event also offers a platform for people from across the g ...Read More >
Dimapur: In a landmark initiative to promote and preserve the rich handloom and handicraft tradition of Nagaland, chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the new state emporium complex in Kohima on Friday. The seven-storey facility will serve as a hub for Naga handloom, handicrafts, and cultural promotion of the state. Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge! Addressing the gathering, Rio emphasised the cultural and economic importance of the new facility, calling it a "beacon of identity and opportunity". He expressed appreciation for all those involv ...Read More >
Chennai, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed joy over the inclusion of Gingee Fort in the prestigious list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Taking to social media, CM Stalin wrote: "Delighted that #GingeeFort, famously known as the 'Troy of the East', has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India. This majestic hill fortress now joins Tamil Nadu's proud list of #UNESCO sites including the Great Living Chola Temples, the monuments at Māmallapuram, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Western Ghats. A p ...Read More >
Jaipur, Jul 19 (PTI) A gang, allegedly involved in the adulteration of coal imported from the US, was busted by the Rajasthan Police, leading to the arrest of an individual, a senior official said on Saturday. The gang was adulterating high-quality coal (petcoke) imported from the US, cheating cement and steel factories out of crores of rupees through this illegal operation, Additional Director General of Police (Crime) Dinesh MN said. A team from the Crime Investigation Branch had been gathering intelligence about the theft of petcoke for some time. They were told by informants about several ...Read More >
Madhya Pradesh has received the "Best Tourism State of the Year" award at the Travel and Tourism Conclave in New Delhi. The state's tourism department has been recognized for its efforts in improving infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and promoting its cultural and natural attractions, aiming to establish it as a leading global tourist destination. Read less Great news for Madhya Pradesh! The beautiful destination has been honored with the prestigious "Best Tourism State of the Year" award at the Travel and Tourism Conclave and Awards in New Delhi. This is an impressive award in the tou ...Read More >
Nagpur: Warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj belonged to the entire country, but British history tried to confine him as a regional icon, said BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sudhanshu Trivedi, who was in Nagpur on Friday to attend an event marking the 351st anniversary of Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Trivedi told TOI at the event organized by Shivaji Maharaj Kruti Samiti that Shivaji Maharaj's contribution in 'safeguarding' the southern part of India from Mughal invasion must not be forgotten.Trivedi said, "Shivaji Maharaj belonged to all of us, entire country. Unfortunately, the British p ...Read More >
Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said the quality of police investigation has decreased and it needs to be improved. "Although it is a matter of relief that the crime rate in the state has decreased, the quality of police investigation has decreased, and this needs to be improved," Karnataka CM said. He gave these instructions after holding a meeting of senior police officers and a progress review meeting of the police department at the office of the State Director General of Police. He mentioned that although the accused in the robbery case in Bidar is known, he h ...Read More >