Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Once the largest mosque in the Islamic world, built by Timur (Tamerlane) to rival the greatest buildings in the lands he conquered. Its enormous portal reaches 35 meters high.
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β¨ Historical Significance
Why Bibi-Khanym Mosque Matters
Ranked #34 among the world's top 100
UNESCO World Heritage Site component. A testament to the ambition of Timur and the grandeur of the Timurid Empire.
Built
1404
Location
Uzbekistan
Annual Visitors
500,000
UNESCO
β ID: 603
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π Plan Your Visit to Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Recommended months: April to June, September to November
Temperature
Average: 15β28Β°C (59β82Β°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 1β2 hours
Entry Fee
$5β$20 USD (check current rates)
Dress Code
Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
Getting There
Located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Reach Samarkand by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Samarkand center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
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π‘ Travel Tips for Visiting Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Visit between prayer times. Most mosques close to tourists during Friday noon prayers.
Women should bring a headscarf. Some mosques provide coverings at the entrance.
Currency: Uzbekistani Som (UZS). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Uzbek. Learn basic greetings in the local language β locals appreciate the effort.
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site β follow all preservation rules and stay on designated paths.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November. E-visa available for most nationalities.
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β Frequently Asked Questions about Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Everything you need to know before visiting Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
1Where is Bibi-Khanym Mosque located?
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Bibi-Khanym Mosque is located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. It is ranked #34 in our Top 100 World Mosques list.
2When was Bibi-Khanym Mosque built?
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Bibi-Khanym Mosque was built in 1404. UNESCO World Heritage Site component. A testament to the ambition of Timur and the grandeur of the Timurid Empire.
3What is the best time to visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque?
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The best time to visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Uzbekistan is during April to June, September to November. This is the Spring & Autumn when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 15β28Β°C (59β82Β°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque?
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Entry fees for Bibi-Khanym Mosque are approximately $5β$20 USD (check current rates). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Bibi-Khanym Mosque?
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Plan to spend 1β2 hours at Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6Is Bibi-Khanym Mosque a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
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Yes, Bibi-Khanym Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (ID: 603). It has been recognized for its outstanding universal value and is protected under international heritage conservation agreements.
7What should I wear when visiting Bibi-Khanym Mosque?
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Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
8How many people visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque each year?
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Bibi-Khanym Mosque receives approximately 500,000 visitors per year, making it one of the popular mosques in Uzbekistan.
9How do I get to Bibi-Khanym Mosque?
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Located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Reach Samarkand by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Samarkand center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
10Do I need a visa to visit Uzbekistan?
βΌ
E-visa available for most nationalities. The local currency is Uzbekistani Som (UZS). Uzbekistan is in the UTC+5 timezone.
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πΊοΈ Explore More Sites
β Previous in ranking
#33 Mosque of Uqba (Great Mosque of Kairouan detail)
Kairouan, Tunisia
Next in ranking β
#35 Jameh Mosque of Isfahan
Isfahan, Iran
π More in Samarkand
π³οΈ More in Uzbekistan
π― Nearby Attractions
- β’Registan Madrasas (mosques #38)
- β’Kalon Minaret and Mosque in Bukhara
- β’Local museums and cultural centers in Samarkand
- β’Traditional markets and local cuisine near Samarkand
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