Exploring the Frontier Town of Termez, Uzbekistan (Updated January 2026)
Termez sits in Uzbekistan’s southernmost province of Surkhandarya, right on the border with Afghanistan. With over 2,500 years of history, it has been a crossroads of empires — from the Greco-Bactrian kingdom and Kushan Empire (with strong Buddhist influence) to the Samanids, Timurids, and beyond. Today it’s an underrated gem for history lovers, featuring ancient Buddhist monasteries, impressive mausoleums, and one of Uzbekistan’s best museums.
Despite its frontier location, Termez remains calm and welcoming for tourists. Many sites are within the city or a short drive away, making it feasible as a 1–2 day stop, or a base for southern Uzbekistan exploration.
Top Things to Do in Termez & Surrounds
- Archaeological Museum of Termez
The city’s must-visit museum houses an outstanding collection of artifacts from the region, especially from the Kushan period (1st–4th centuries CE). Highlights include Buddhist sculptures, Greco-Bactrian coins, Zoroastrian fire altars, and fresco fragments. - Old Termez & Al-Hakim al-Termezi Mausoleum
Located about 6 km northwest of modern Termez, this site features the beautiful 15th-century mausoleum of the Sufi saint Al-Hakim al-Termezi. The complex includes restored Timurid-era architecture, a chillkhona (cool underground prayer cave), and gardens. Nearby are remnants of Old Termez, destroyed by the Mongols. - Sultan Saodat Complex
A sprawling necropolis of 17 mausoleums and mosques built between the 11th and 17th centuries for descendants of the Prophet Muhammad (Sayyids). The intricate brickwork and turquoise domes are stunning, and the site has a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. - Kirkkiz Fortress
An enigmatic 11th-century structure (possibly a caravanserai or palace) with over 50 rooms spread across two floors. It’s one of the most atmospheric ruins near Termez — crumbling arches, hidden courtyards, and panoramic views. - Fayez Tepe & Kara Tepe
Two of the most significant Buddhist archaeological sites in Uzbekistan. Fayez Tepe features a well-preserved stupa and monastery ruins from the 2nd–3rd centuries CE. Kara Tepe (nearby) is a hilltop monastery with cave cells and panoramic views of the Amu Darya River and Afghanistan beyond. - Zurmala Stupa Tower
The only surviving part of a massive Kushan-era Buddhist stupa (2nd century CE). The 12-meter cylindrical brick tower stands alone in the countryside — a quiet, powerful reminder of Termez’s Buddhist past. - Kampyr Tepe (Alexandria on the Oxus)
One of the most remote and rewarding sites — a fortified Greco-Bactrian city founded by Alexander the Great around 328 BCE. The hilltop ruins offer sweeping views of the Amu Darya and Afghanistan. Excavations continue, and you may meet archaeologists on site. - Hairatan Friendship Bridge
The iconic Soviet-built bridge over the Amu Darya linking Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. You can’t cross it (unless entering Afghanistan), but the viewpoint is impressive and symbolic.
Best Restaurants in Termez
- Azizbek Restaurant — Excellent shashlik (especially farsh), fresh bread, and cold Baltika beer. Outdoor seating is pleasant.
- Street chaikhanas & bazaar stalls — Try local plov, samsa, and fresh juices along Hakim at-Termezi Street near Yubileynyi Bazaar.
Where to Stay in Termez
- Budget: Surkhon Hotel — simple, clean, and central.
- Midrange: Asson Hotel — comfortable rooms, pool (sometimes under renovation), near the Archaeological Museum.
Getting to & From Termez
- By train — Termez has good rail connections to Tashkent, Samarkand, and other cities.
- By bus/shared taxi — Frequent marshrutkas and taxis to Samarkand, Qarshi, Denau, and Tashkent from the main bus station.
- By air — Flights to Tashkent (Uzbekistan Airways) and occasional connections to other cities.
Crossing the Hairatan Border to Afghanistan
The Friendship Bridge (Hairatan–Hairatan) remains the main Uzbekistan–Afghanistan land crossing. As of early 2026, it is open for commercial traffic and some passenger movement, but the situation in Afghanistan is still unstable. Tourist crossings are not currently recommended due to security concerns and limited consular support. Check official advisories before planning.
Termez offers a fascinating glimpse into Uzbekistan’s deep history and multi-cultural heritage — well worth the journey south. Enjoy your visit!