The Ark Fortress: Secrets Behind the Walls

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Bukhara

Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Languages: English

Guru: Alex

PRO

Verified quality

Registered on 15 July 2025

Born and raised in the heart of Bukhara city, I remember walking by historical buildings and seeing how amazed visitors were by my hometown and its architecture. This stuck with me and is most probably the reason I am a tour guide today. After finishing school, I studied at the Institute of Oriental Studies. Now back in my beloved Bukhara, I also work part-time in the city’s History Museum as a researcher when not leading tours. This allows me to share more in-depth information with my most curious guests! Married with two sons, I spend most of my spare time with my family. I also enjoy chess, ping pong and learning languages.

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Category: The Deep Dive | Style: Fortress Experience

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The Experience

For over two thousand years, the Ark Citadel was more than just a fortress—it was a "city within a city" and the fortified residence of the Bukharian Kings. Today, the Ark has transformed from a royal palace into the city’s Main State Museum, offering the most comprehensive look at Bukhara’s timeline.

As you walk through the ancient corridors, we will explore a vast collection of specialized expositions:

Royal History: The story of the Emirs, their wars, and their unique currency.
Arts & Calligraphy: Exquisite manuscripts and the fine craftsmanship of the Silk Road.
Archaeology: Ancient artifacts unearthing the region's deepest roots.
Natural History: A look at the unique flora and fauna of the Bukhara region.

Why This Tour is Essential

This tour provides the foundational context for the entire city. By seeing the artifacts and hearing the stories of the Emirate in one location, you will understand the "why" behind everything else you see in Bukhara.

The Golden Finale

No visit to the Ark is complete without the view. The citadel offers a stunning panoramic lookout over the domes and minarets of the old city.

Pro-Tip: We recommend an afternoon visit. Watching the sunset paint the ancient city in gold from the top of the Ark is an unforgettable experience.

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Logistics & Expenses

Entrance Fee: $5 (Paid directly to the museum).
Service Fee: Fair payment to your guide.

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

Bolo Hovuz mosque

I will be near Bolo Hovuz mosque. This mosque is located in front of the Ark fortress, across the road

Entry not included

Ark Citadel

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.