Kukeldash Madrasah
A 16th-century yellow-brick madrasah, a historic Islamic educational center and a key landmark in Tashkent's Old City.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Kukeldash Madrasah
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century yellow-brick madrasah, a historic Islamic educational center and a key landmark in Tashkent's Old City.
"One of the most historic places in Tashkent, a must-see attraction with a cool courtyard."
💰 Tourist vs. Local Fee
Be aware of the price difference for tourists (around 15,000-20,000 som) vs. locals (5,000 som). Have cash ready!
🚶♀️ Explore the Courtyard
The central courtyard is the main attraction; take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Courtyard
Central Courtyard
Step into the serene, expansive courtyard, a peaceful oasis surrounded by historic student cells.

Intricate Yellow Brickwork
Exterior Facade
Admire the detailed yellow brickwork and traditional Central Asian architectural elements.

Handicraft Shops
Upper Levels
Browse unique local crafts and souvenirs in the shops located within the madrasah.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Kukeldash Madrasah
Understanding Entrance Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Tourist vs. Local Fee
Be aware of the price difference for tourists (around 15,000-20,000 som) vs. locals (5,000 som). Have cash ready!
🚶♀️ Explore the Courtyard
The central courtyard is the main attraction; take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
🛍️ Upstairs Souvenirs
Don't miss the handicraft shops on the upper levels for unique souvenirs.
📍 Near Chorsu Bazaar
Combine your visit with Chorsu Bazaar for a full Old City experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Tourist vs. Local Fee
Be aware of the price difference for tourists (around 15,000-20,000 som) vs. locals (5,000 som). Have cash ready!
🚶♀️ Explore the Courtyard
The central courtyard is the main attraction; take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
🛍️ Upstairs Souvenirs
Don't miss the handicraft shops on the upper levels for unique souvenirs.
📍 Near Chorsu Bazaar
Combine your visit with Chorsu Bazaar for a full Old City experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kukeldash Madrasah as a significant historical site in Tashkent, appreciating its well-maintained architecture and serene courtyard. Its location near Chorsu Bazaar is a major plus, offering a blend of history and vibrant local culture. Some note the entrance fee difference for tourists and locals.
"Very nice historic building. Entrance is 20.000 sum if you are tourist and 5000 sum if you are local. It is one of the most historic place in Tashkent.
If you wanna understand the history of the town it is a nice place. Still standing after hundreds of years. There are also handcraft shops upstairs.
The yard of the Madrasah is so cool. It is one of the must see attraction in Tashkent."
Onur Kagan Gocebe
"Kukeldash Madrasah in Tashkent, located near the famous Chorsu Bazaar in Old City, is one of the most famous historical sites in Uzbekistan’s capital.
Tashkent’s Kukeldash Madrasah was built under the Shaybanid Dynasty by the vizier Dervish Khan in 1570. Due to his close relationship with the ruler, the khan was better known by his nickname "Kukeldash", meaning “the khan's milk brother”, and thus the madrasah built by him came to be known as Kukeldash. The finished structure, rich in décor and replete with sky-blue majolica, rivaled the finest architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara.
To visit this place I paid 15000 som in 2024 for the foreigners. It beautiful and calm place in the heart of the city."
Md Abdur Raquib
"Kukeldash Madrasah
Kukeldash Madrasa is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Tashkent. It was built in 1570, as a prominent Islamic educational institution, during the reign of the Shaybanid dynasty by the vizier Dervish Khan, known as Kukeldash, close to the Tashkent sultans Barak-Khan and Darwish Khan. The vizier was nicknamed "kukeltash," meaning "foster-brother" of the Khan.
The madrasa is a fine example of traditional Central Asian architecture: an extensive courtyard, surrounded by two-story student cells built on hujras (student rooms), and a mosque in the corners, with its impressive façade and the large entrance portal. The elegant structure was designed for teaching Islamic theology and for housing scholars and students from across the region.
Over the centuries, Kukeldash Madrasa has witnessed dramatic changes. It has served various roles, including a fortress, caravanserai, and even a museum under Soviet rule. It is here that were thrown, from the top of the parapet, the adulterous women who were imprisoned in a sewn sackcloth and fell on the ground of the place strewn with sharp stones. This penalty was abolished in 1865 when the Russians arrived.
Today, Kukeldash Madrasa remains a functioning religious site and a key stop for visitors exploring the historic heart of the city."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kukeldash Madrasah is conveniently located in the Old City, near the famous Chorsu Bazaar. You can reach it by taxi, or if you're using public transport, the nearest metro station is Chorsu. From the station, it's a short walk to the madrasah.
Yes, it is. The Chorsu metro station is within walking distance, making it accessible via Tashkent's metro system. Taxis are also readily available and a popular option for tourists.
From the city center, a taxi is often the quickest and most comfortable option. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Chorsu station and walk. The journey time will vary depending on traffic.
If you are visiting Chorsu Bazaar, then yes, it's a very short walk. Other attractions in the Old City are also within walking distance, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
Parking can be challenging in the Old City due to narrow streets. It's generally recommended to use taxis or public transport rather than driving your own vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Kukeldash Madrasah typically differs for tourists and locals. Tourists usually pay around 15,000 to 20,000 Uzbek Som, while locals pay a significantly lower fee (around 5,000 Som). It's advisable to have cash in Uzbek Som ready.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Kukeldash Madrasah. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance.
While specific hours can vary, Kukeldash Madrasah is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date opening times, especially around holidays.
Yes, Kukeldash Madrasah remains a functioning religious site and an important historical landmark. Visitors are welcome to explore its grounds and learn about its history.
As it's a historical and religious site, visitors are expected to dress modestly out of respect. While you can access the courtyard and some areas, certain parts might be restricted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful central courtyard, admire the traditional architecture with its yellow brickwork, and visit the handicraft shops located on the upper levels. It's a great place to learn about Islamic history and Central Asian architecture.
Absolutely! The intricate details of the architecture, the courtyard, and the surrounding old city provide excellent photographic opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
A visit to Kukeldash Madrasah typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the courtyard and browsing the shops.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, local guides can often be hired in the vicinity, especially near Chorsu Bazaar, to provide historical context.
Built in 1570, it was a prominent Islamic educational institution during the Shaybanid dynasty. It has also served various roles throughout history, including a fortress and museum, making it a site of deep historical importance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside Kukeldash Madrasah. However, being located next to Chorsu Bazaar, you'll find numerous food stalls and local eateries offering delicious Uzbek cuisine just a short walk away.
You can expect authentic Uzbek dishes like plov, shashlik, samsa, and various local pastries and bread. Chorsu Bazaar is a fantastic place to sample street food and local specialties.
Yes, eating at Chorsu Bazaar is highly recommended for an authentic culinary experience. It's a vibrant place to try local flavors and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere.
While meat dishes are prevalent, you can often find vegetarian options like various vegetable stews, salads, and bread at Chorsu Bazaar and surrounding eateries. Asking for 'sabzavot' (vegetables) can help.
Chorsu Bazaar is lively throughout the day, but for the best food experience, consider visiting during lunch or early evening when most food stalls are fully operational and the atmosphere is vibrant.
📸 📸 Photography
The central courtyard offers beautiful symmetry and architectural details. The exterior yellow brickwork and the grand entrance portal are also prime spots. Try capturing the contrast between the historic structure and the bustling city life around it.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Kukeldash Madrasah, particularly in the courtyard. However, always be respectful of any ongoing religious activities or private areas.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a warmer glow on the yellow bricks. Midday sun can be harsh.
Look for the intricate patterns in the brickwork, the arches of the student cells (hujras), and the imposing main portal. The contrast of the blue sky against the yellow bricks is also a classic shot.
Drone photography regulations can be strict in Uzbekistan. It's highly unlikely that drone usage is permitted over historical sites like Kukeldash Madrasah without special permits. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Chorsu Bazaar, which is often a hit with kids due to its vibrant atmosphere and colorful displays. The food stalls can be an exciting way for children to try new flavors. Keep in mind that while the madrasah itself is calm, the bazaar can be crowded, so keep a close eye on little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pairing your visit with the free-to-explore Chorsu Bazaar is a smart way to maximize your experience without additional costs. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the market and sample affordable local snacks. Public transport, like the metro, is also very inexpensive, making it easy to reach the madrasah without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Kukeldash Madrasah Legacy
Over the centuries, the madrasah has witnessed significant historical shifts. It has served multiple purposes, including functioning as a fortress, a caravanserai, and even a museum during the Soviet period. A particularly grim historical footnote mentions its use for public executions, a practice that ceased with the arrival of the Russians in 1865. Today, it continues to be a functioning religious site, offering a tangible link to Uzbekistan's past and its enduring cultural heritage.
Visitors today can still appreciate the traditional Central Asian architecture, with its two-story student cells (hujras) surrounding a central courtyard. The madrasah's resilience through centuries of change makes it a compelling site for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the cultural evolution of Tashkent.
Exploring the Old City: Kukeldash Madrasah and Chorsu Bazaar
When visiting Kukeldash Madrasah, many travelers find it beneficial to dedicate time to exploring Chorsu Bazaar. Here, you can wander through stalls selling everything from spices and dried fruits to traditional textiles and handicrafts. The bazaar is also a fantastic place to sample authentic Uzbek street food, from savory samsa to hearty plov. This combination of historical exploration and culinary adventure provides a well-rounded experience of Tashkent's cultural fabric.
Navigating the Old City is best done on foot once you've reached the area via metro or taxi. The narrow lanes and historic buildings create an atmospheric journey. After visiting the madrasah and the bazaar, consider exploring other nearby historical sites to fully appreciate the rich heritage of this ancient part of Tashkent.
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