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Chorsu Bazaar, located in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a traditional market with local characteristics.
This is one of the largest markets in Central Asia, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, fresh produce, souvenirs, candy, flowers, plants, clothing, and more, basically meeting all the needs of tourists. The market is laid out with food and fresh produce in the center, souvenirs, candy, flowers, and plants surrounding it, and clothing at the outermost edge.
The market boasts a unique architectural style, with a beautiful blue-green dome. The spacious interior is divided into two floors: the ground floor primarily sells fresh produce, while the second floor primarily features dried fruit stalls. Here, visitors can experience Tashkent's urban life and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of everyday life.
The best time to travel to Jonsubazar in Uzbekistan is spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November). The weather in these two seasons is more pleasant with less rainfall, making them suitable for tourists to visit.
【Recommended Activities】
→Buy souvenirs
Prices at Qiongsu Bazar are relatively low; souvenirs, for example, are about one-third cheaper than in scenic areas. However, due to its size and the many domed buildings, it can be confusing to navigate, so it's recommended to buy your desired items early.
The market is crowded, so be sure to take care of your belongings. Bargaining is welcome, but be polite and respectful. Some vendors may not speak English, so it's best to have a translator or a local guide with you.
【Recommended Play Time】
1-2 hours
Free and open
Wednesday to Sunday 10:00-17:00
Monday 10:00-14:00.
The Dome Market (also known as Toki Zargaron) in Samarkand is one of the oldest markets in Central Asia. It was historically a center for traders, particularly those involved in the jewelry and precious stone trade. The market's unique dome architecture is a hallmark of Samarkand's Islamic heritage, and it remains an important cultural and economic hub in the city.
The Dome Market is located in the heart of Samarkand, close to Registan Square. It can be easily reached by walking from other major attractions like the Registan or Shah-i-Zinda. Taxis and buses are also available, but walking offers the best chance to experience the city’s atmosphere.
The Dome Market is open daily, typically from early morning until late afternoon. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, when the market is less crowded and the weather is cooler.
The entrance to the Dome Market is free. However, if you wish to enter any nearby cultural sites or museums within the market complex, there may be a fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to those specific attractions.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for visiting the Dome Market. Entrance is free, and you can purchase tickets for any nearby attractions once you arrive.
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the Dome Market. This allows time to browse the stalls, sample food, and take in the architecture.
Guided tours are available at the Dome Market, typically in English, Russian, and Uzbek. You can book a tour upon arrival or in advance with local travel agencies. Audio guides may also be available at nearby cultural sites for a deeper understanding of the market's history.
Start by exploring the market’s main dome and the array of stalls inside. Afterward, wander around the exterior to photograph the unique architecture and check out the surrounding streets. Spend some time sampling local food and shopping for souvenirs before leaving the area.
The Dome Market is not typically open at night, but nearby attractions, such as the Registan Square, may offer light shows in the evening. Special evening tours of Samarkand may include stops at the Dome Market and other major landmarks.
The market can be quite busy during midday, especially on weekends. Early mornings or late afternoons, particularly on weekdays, are the least crowded times to visit.
There are public toilets nearby, and several food stalls inside the market offer local snacks and drinks. Rest areas are available around the market, and shops sell a variety of local goods, including clothing, spices, and souvenirs.
The Dome Market is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may have uneven ground. Visitors with mobility issues may face challenges with the market’s older infrastructure, though there are benches and rest areas to take breaks.
Cash is preferred for purchases at the Dome Market, especially in the food stalls and souvenir shops. Mobile payments and cards are less commonly accepted in the market area, so it’s advisable to carry cash in the local currency (Uzbekistani som).
Nearby restaurants include “Samarkand Restaurant” and “Bukhara Restaurant,” where you can try traditional Uzbek dishes. Cafes are also scattered around the market area for a quick break.
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian and halal food options available in the market and nearby restaurants. Many traditional Uzbek dishes, such as plov, are vegetarian or can be easily adapted to be vegan.
There are several hotels close to the Dome Market, such as “Hotel Samarkand,” “Registan Plaza Hotel,” and “Shah-i-Zinda Hotel,” which offer comfortable stays within walking distance of the market and other nearby attractions.
Yes, there are numerous souvenir shops in and around the Dome Market. Popular souvenirs include traditional Uzbek carpets, handmade ceramics, spices, silk scarves, and jewelry.
Taxis are the easiest way to continue your trip after visiting the Dome Market. You can also use local buses or shared taxis to travel around Samarkand, depending on your next destination.
