Shashtepa Archaeological Site
Explore the ancient settlement believed to be the historical foundation of Tashkent, offering a raw glimpse into archaeological discoveries.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For visibility and safety
Shashtepa Archaeological Site
Best Time
For visibility and safety

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient settlement believed to be the historical foundation of Tashkent, offering a raw glimpse into archaeological discoveries.
"An ancient settlement, or rather what is left of it. A pile of clay, with wells dug lengthwise and crosswise by archaeologists."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with dig sites. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and energized during your visit. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Settlement Remains
Explore the remnants of an ancient village, the historical foundation of Tashkent. Witness the landscape shaped by archaeological digs.

Archaeological Dig Sites
Observe the deep wells and trenches left by archaeologists, offering a glimpse into the excavation process and the site's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Site's Condition
Respect the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with dig sites. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and energized during your visit. :water_wave:
Be Mindful of Dig Sites
Some archaeological wells are deep and can be dangerous. Stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edges. :warning:
Leave No Trace
Help keep this historical site clean. Pack out everything you pack in, including all trash. :recycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven with dig sites. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring safely. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on-site. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and energized during your visit. :water_wave:
Be Mindful of Dig Sites
Some archaeological wells are deep and can be dangerous. Stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edges. :warning:
Leave No Trace
Help keep this historical site clean. Pack out everything you pack in, including all trash. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shashtepa is recognized as the historical foundation of Tashkent, offering a glimpse into an ancient settlement. Visitors appreciate the free admission and the raw archaeological landscape, though some note concerns about the site's upkeep and safety due to unprotected dig sites.
"To be honest, despite the fact that this place is considered the site of an ancient village on which the city of Tashkent was founded, it has not been well studied and its protection is not satisfactory."
Ilhomjon Mehmonov
"An ancient settlement, or rather what is left of it. A pile of clay, with wells dug lengthwise and crosswise by archaeologists and local diggers (rather dangerous deep holes). Household garbage in places indicates that the mountain was visited frequently by local residents. Free admission."
Алишер Валиев
"Beautiful place"
Serhat Günel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shashtepa is located near Tashkent. While specific public transport routes might be limited, it's often best accessed by taxi or private car. Confirm the exact location with your driver before heading out.
Yes, driving is a convenient way to reach Shashtepa. There is usually space for parking, but it's an informal setup. Be prepared for unpaved access roads depending on the exact route.
The site is primarily an open area with dig sites. Wear sturdy shoes and be aware of your surroundings. There are no formal paths, so tread carefully.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Shashtepa Archaeological Site is free. You can visit and explore the area without purchasing any tickets.
As an open archaeological site, Shashtepa does not have set opening or closing hours. It's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee. Shashtepa is freely accessible to the public, making it an accessible historical exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the remnants of an ancient settlement, including earth mounds and numerous archaeological dig sites with wells. It's a glimpse into the historical foundation of Tashkent.
While the site is free to visit, caution is advised. Some dig sites are deep and unfenced. Stick to visible paths and avoid areas that look unstable. Visiting during daylight is recommended.
No, there are no facilities such as restrooms, cafes, or information centers at Shashtepa. Visitors should come prepared with their own water and snacks.
Shashtepa is considered the site of an ancient village on which the city of Tashkent was founded. It offers a look into the early history of the region.
It's best to observe the dig sites from a safe distance. Climbing into or near the wells is dangerous and not permitted. Respect the archaeological integrity of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Shashtepa. You can capture the unique landscape and archaeological features of the site.
The varied terrain with mounds and dig sites offers interesting photographic opportunities. Consider the interplay of light and shadow on the earthworks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Be prepared for an unmanicured experience. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and perhaps a field guide to local archaeology if you want to deepen your understanding. The lack of crowds means you can often have a contemplative experience, piecing together the history from the landscape itself.
Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation to the site and any food or water you bring. Since there are no facilities, packing everything you need is essential, but this also saves money on potential on-site purchases.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Shashtepa's Past
Despite its historical importance, Shashtepa faces challenges in terms of preservation and study. Visitors often note that the site is not extensively developed or protected, leading to a more raw and natural experience. This lack of formal infrastructure means visitors must exercise caution and respect the delicate archaeological context.
The presence of deep wells dug by archaeologists and local diggers is a prominent feature. These excavations offer a visual representation of the efforts to uncover the past, but also pose safety risks. Responsible visitation is key to ensuring the site's integrity for future study and appreciation.
Visitor Experience and Etiquette
Travelers have observed that the site can sometimes be marred by household garbage, indicating that not all visitors adhere to responsible practices. This underscores the importance of the 'leave no trace' principle. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own supplies, including water and snacks, and to carry out all waste to help maintain the site's condition.
Given the nature of the terrain, including deep dig sites, safety is a primary concern. Sturdy footwear is essential, and visitors should remain vigilant, sticking to paths where possible and avoiding proximity to unstable edges. The free admission is a significant draw, but it comes with the responsibility of respecting the historical and environmental aspects of Shashtepa.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit