A hilltop 19th-century mosque with a carved porch and a terrace overlooking old Samarkand.
Hazrat Khizr Mosque in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, stands on a rise opposite Shah-i-Zinda, overlooking the Siab river valley and the old city. It is dedicated to Khizr (Khidr), the legendary prophet-saint associated with water and wisdom. The present building dates mainly from the 19th century, replacing an earlier mosque said to date to the 8th century, and it has a carved wooden-columned porch and a graceful minaret, with later restoration work. The terrace gives one of the best open views over Samarkand, with the domes of Bibi-Khanym and the roofs of Siab Bazaar in the distance. The mosque is surrounded by a cemetery, and the mausoleum of the first Uzbek president Islam Karimov stands close by; visitors should be respectful in this area. Entry to the grounds is generally free. A visit takes 20-30 minutes and is easily combined with the walk to Shah-i-Zinda along the same street. It is an active place of worship, so dress modestly and avoid entering during prayer.
| Admission | Grounds generally free; donation welcome |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, daylight hours; closed to visitors at prayer times |
| Typical visit | 20-30 minutes |
| Best time | Morning or late afternoon |
| Getting there | Taxi about 10,000-12,000 UZS (~$0.85-1) from the Registan; 5-minute walk from Shah-i-Zinda |
| Address | Hazrat Khizr Mosque, Shohizinda Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan |
Location
Hazrat Khizr Mosque, Shohizinda Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
39.6634, 66.9833 View on map
Highlights
- Carved wooden porch and slender minaret
- Terrace view over Siab Bazaar and Bibi-Khanym domes
- Dedicated to the saint Khizr
- Near the mausoleum of Islam Karimov
Tips for visiting
- Dress modestly and avoid prayer times, especially Friday midday.
- Take the terrace for the best view over old Samarkand.
- Combine with Shah-i-Zinda and the Afrosiyab Museum.
- Allow 20-30 minutes.
- Ask before photographing worshippers.
When to visit
Morning or late afternoon; avoid Friday midday prayers.
Accessibility
The grounds are accessible but involve a short climb and steps to the terrace; wheelchair access is limited.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Hazrat Khizr Mosque free?
Entry to the grounds is generally free, though donations are welcomed.
Is there a view from the mosque?
Yes, the terrace overlooks the city and Siab Bazaar.
Is it an active mosque?
Yes, so avoid prayer times and dress modestly.
How long does a visit take?
20 to 30 minutes.