Khiva Named One of the Best Travel Destinations for 2026 by National Geographic

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — National Geographic has included Khiva in its list of the best travel destinations for 2026, compiled by the magazine’s editors, photographers, and adventurers.

The open-air museum city invites travelers to spend entire days exploring the monuments of Ichan Kala, the ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can admire the beautifully restored tile-clad buildings with geometric ornamentation, the wooden-columned mosque, and the luxurious palaces that preserve the spirit of centuries past.

But Khiva offers much more than architecture. The new Arda Khiva resort, featuring a water park and an amphitheater, makes the city attractive for families, combining historic heritage with modern leisure opportunities.

The city is also known for its vibrant cultural life. Throughout the year, Khiva hosts major events such as the International Lazgi Dance Festival, the Pahlavon Mahmud Strongman Tournament, and the three-day Qovun Sayli Melon Festival.

All these features make Khiva not only a beautiful but a lively destination — one that deserves a place on every traveler’s list in 2026.