Ak-Saray Palace Shahrisabz
Monumental ruins of Timur's 14th-century summer palace, showcasing incredible scale and historical ambition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Ak-Saray Palace Shahrisabz
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monumental ruins of Timur's 14th-century summer palace, showcasing incredible scale and historical ambition.
"The scale of the building is truly superhuman, even by today's standards."
Go with a Guide! 🗣️
Essential for understanding the history. Without one, it's just ruins.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Facilities can be limited.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monumental Entrance Pylons
Main entrance
Towering 38m high, these remnants hint at the palace's colossal scale and Timur's ambition.
Grand Central Courtyard
Center of the palace complex
Imagine the vast central courtyard with its large pool, once the heart of this magnificent summer residence.
Intricate Tile Fragments
Surviving walls and arches
Glimpse fragments of vibrant glazed tiles and inscriptions, showcasing the palace's rich decorative scheme.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Ak-Saray
Context Enhances the Experience
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go with a Guide! 🗣️
Essential for understanding the history. Without one, it's just ruins.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Facilities can be limited.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be walking around the expansive ruins, so good footwear is a must.
Capture the Grandeur 📸
The scale of the remaining structures is impressive, perfect for dramatic photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Go with a Guide! 🗣️
Essential for understanding the history. Without one, it's just ruins.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Facilities can be limited.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be walking around the expansive ruins, so good footwear is a must.
Capture the Grandeur 📸
The scale of the remaining structures is impressive, perfect for dramatic photos.
Explore Local Shops 🛍️
Discover unique souvenirs and goods from local artisans within the complex.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and historical significance of Ak-Saray Palace, even in its ruined state. The monumental entrance pylons and surviving tile fragments offer a powerful glimpse into Timur's ambition. However, the lack of comprehensive signage and basic facilities like clean toilets are frequently cited drawbacks, making a guide highly recommended for a richer experience.
"One of the 4 UNESCO sites in Uzbekistan, there is not a great deal left to see, only a small fragment of the original Palace survives. The area has been beautifully landscaped, the government built many stores in the area, however as not too many tourists make the trip over the hills from Samarkand, they are mostly empty."
Jamal Fairbrother
"The ruins are imposing even in their broken state. This was once Timur’s grand palace — the gateway alone gives a sense of the scale and ambition behind it. Historically loaded and photogenic, it’s a powerful stop in Shahrisabz."
Neel Banerjee
"The Ak-Saray Palace (= White Palace) in Shakhrisabz.
A partially ruined monumental iwan from the Aq Saray is all that remains of Timur’s legendary palace complex, the construction of which began in 1380 during his reign (1370–1405) and was completed in 1404. It was likely destroyed in the 16th century by Bukharian Khan Abdullah II.
The surviving iwan is among the largest ever built in the Islamic world. Standing 30 meters tall today, it is estimated that the original vaulted height reached 50 meters. The remaining structure consists of two consecutive rectangular chambers with collapsed vaults. The larger iwan is framed by a monumental portal and flanked by two truncated cylindrical towers. At the heart of the palace was the large pool in the grand central courtyard.
Fragments of glazed-tile revetments and literary accounts attest to the palace’s extraordinary and distinctive decorative scheme. The Aq Saray is a remarkable example of the use of vibrant color in eastern Islamic architecture, with richly ornamented surfaces and complex epigraphic inscriptions. Timur employed artisans and craftsmen from Tabriz (in present-day Iran) and Kharazm, who brought their skills to Shahrisabz to contribute to the palace’s construction and ornamentation.
Overall, the scale of the building is truly superhuman, even by today's standards."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ak-Saray Palace is located in Shahrisabz, about 80 km south of Samarkand. Many travelers opt for a day trip from Samarkand. You can hire a taxi or arrange for a private driver for the round trip. Some visitors also mention using tuk-tuks for local transport within Shahrisabz to get between points of interest.
While taxis and private drivers are common, public transport options might be less frequent or direct. It's advisable to check local schedules or book transport in advance if relying on public options.
For exploring the palace complex and other nearby sites like the statue of Timur, tuk-tuks are available and can shuttle you between points of interest, covering about a 2km round trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, but generally, historical sites in Uzbekistan are open from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check with your accommodation or a local guide for the most up-to-date information.
Admission fees for historical sites in Uzbekistan are typically modest. While specific prices for Ak-Saray Palace aren't always readily available online, expect an affordable entrance fee.
Advance booking is usually not required for Ak-Saray Palace, especially as it's not as heavily touristed as some other Uzbek sites. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
Yes, Ak-Saray Palace is part of the Shahrisabz Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance. 
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Today, you can see the imposing remains of the monumental entrance pylons, fragments of glazed tiles, and the vast scale of the former central courtyard. While much is ruined, the surviving structures are incredibly impressive.
The site involves walking over uneven terrain and ruins. While the main areas are accessible, navigating the entire complex might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
It is highly recommended to hire a local guide to fully appreciate the historical context and significance of the palace ruins, as there are limited informational signs on-site.
Reviews suggest that toilet facilities can be limited and may not be in the best condition. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for basic amenities.
Photography is generally allowed at Ak-Saray Palace, and it's a very photogenic site, especially during the golden hours. Capture the grandeur of the remaining architecture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the area around the palace has been landscaped with new stores, many are reportedly empty due to fewer tourists. You might find some local eateries in Shahrisabz town, but options directly at the palace site are limited.
Bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring. This ensures you stay hydrated and have something to eat.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, offer beautiful lighting that enhances the sandstone walls and remaining structures. Early mornings are also good to avoid harsh midday sun.
The towering entrance pylons, the vastness of the courtyard, and any surviving decorative tile fragments are prime spots for photography. Capturing the scale against the sky is also effective.
Drone usage regulations can vary by country and specific historical sites. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your guide before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the site is largely ruins, the open spaces around the palace can be good for kids to move around, provided they are supervised closely due to uneven terrain. To make the visit more engaging for children, consider hiring a guide who can tell stories about Timur and his empire in a way that's accessible to younger audiences.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Understanding the historical context is key. Learning about Timur's ambition to make Shahrisabz his capital and the palace's role in his reign will deepen your appreciation.
+1 Engaging with a knowledgeable local guide is highly recommended to fully grasp the architectural innovations and the historical narrative behind these impressive ruins. 📸 Photographers
The best light for photography is during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, which cast a warm glow on the sandstone and highlight the textures of the remaining structures. Focus on capturing the scale of the pylons and the intricate details of any surviving tilework.
Wide-angle shots can emphasize the vastness of the former courtyard, while closer shots can reveal the artistry in the decorative fragments. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Timur's Vision
The palace was intended to be a testament to his might, a place for grand diplomatic meetings and a symbol of his vast dominion. Historically, Ak-Saray was one of the largest and most magnificent palaces ever built in Central Asia. Its scale was truly 'superhuman,' even by today's standards.
Timur employed skilled artisans and craftsmen from across his empire, including from Tabriz and Kharazm, to bring his vision to life.
Exploring the Ruins and What Remains
+1 These pylons are adorned with intricate blue and white tilework, hinting at the palace's original splendor. Beyond the entrance, the site reveals fragments of what was once a vast central courtyard. While the original vaulted chambers have largely collapsed, the sheer size of the remaining structures is awe-inspiring.
It's important to note that much of the palace is in ruins, and without context, it can be challenging to visualize its original form.
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