TravelBliss LLC has been in the travel industry since 2016, providing excursions and complex tours throughout Uzbekistan and around Central Asia.
TravelBliss LLC has been in the travel industry since 2016, providing excursions and complex tours throughout Uzbekistan and around Central Asia.
About 25 km north of Samarkand, in the peaceful village of Hartang (Payarik district), lies the beautifully restored Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex — one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The complex is dedicated to the great scholar of Hadith, Imam Muhammad ibn Ismail al-Bukhari (810–870 CE), the compiler of Sahih al-Bukhari, one of the most authentic collections of sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Imam al-Bukhari was born in Bukhara and devoted his life to collecting and verifying Hadiths (teachings of the Prophet). After extensive travels across the Islamic world, he spent his final years in Hartang, where he passed away and was buried in 870 CE. Over the centuries, the site became a revered place of pilgrimage, attracting believers and scholars from far and wide.
During the Soviet era, the site fell into neglect. However, in 1997–1998, to commemorate the 1225th anniversary of Imam al-Bukhari’s birth, Uzbekistan initiated a large-scale restoration project. The complex was transformed into a spiritual and cultural centre, symbolizing the revival of Islamic heritage in independent Uzbekistan.
In 2024–2025, the Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex underwent another major phase of reconstruction. New facilities were built to accommodate growing numbers of visitors, while preserving the sacred atmosphere and traditional architectural aesthetics.
The complex now features:
A majestic mausoleum, decorated with light-blue onyx, carved marble, and geometric tilework.
A grand mosque, with capacity for several thousand worshippers, combining classical Central Asian style with modern elements.
A museum and library, exhibiting ancient manuscripts, personal items, and educational displays about the science of Hadith.
A modern research and conference centre, used for international Islamic studies and cultural events.
Beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards, with centuries-old plane trees and peaceful fountains.
The architectural ensemble reflects the harmony between spirituality, art, and nature — a hallmark of Uzbek craftsmanship.
The Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex is open year-round and is easily accessible from Samarkand by car (approx. 40 minutes). It is one of the most popular day tours from Samarkand, ideal for travelers seeking both cultural insight and spiritual reflection.
Visitors are advised to wear modest clothing, as it is an active religious site. Photography is allowed in most areas except during prayer hours. Guided tours are available in English, German, French, and Russian, and can be arranged through local agencies in Samarkand.
The visit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and many travelers combine it with nearby attractions such as Shakhi Zinda, Hazrat Daud Cave, or the Ulugbek Observatory for a full cultural day.
A trip to the Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex offers:
A profound connection to Islamic scholarship and history.
A peaceful spiritual experience surrounded by beautiful Uzbek architecture.
An authentic glimpse into the cultural revival of modern Uzbekistan.
Whether you are a pilgrim, a student of history, or a traveler exploring the Silk Road, a day tour to Imam al-Bukhari from Samarkand is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Asian spirituality.
