Akhsikent turns into a tourist center in Namangan region

On February 28, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Akhsikent archeological complex in Turakurgan district during his visit to Namangan region. Previously, despite archeologists had been doing research works on a regular basis, this place used to be deserted site.

In compliance with a presidential assignment, great work has been started to preserve and study the historic monument of Akhsikent, as well as create its true history. The state unitary enterprise “Directorate for protection and research of the archeological heritage Akhsikent” has been established.

Last week, Kun.uz correspondents came here to learn what works have been carried out in Akhsikent following the president's visit.

A grand signage has been installed: Axsikent.

Also, a brief overview of the complex and museum has been presented.

You have to buy a ticket to visit the historical city and get acquainted with the exhibits. Ticket for adults (residents of Uzbekistan) costs 2,000 soums, for schoolchildren – 1,000 soums, and for children under 7 – free entrance.

When we talked to the cashier lady, she showed us a record of day-to-day information. The numbers are amazing. The museum is being visited by children, schoolchildren, their parents, families and communities. According to her, after Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit, a flow of tourists to the site has been observed.

The only problem is the lack of foreign tourists.

The open-air museum operates from 9 am to 6 pm every day. By the way, the ticket for foreign tourists costs 10,000 soums, and guide service – 5,000 soums.

In order to reach the museum, tourists should walk through the passage with staircase.

At the entry, an attendant checked tickets and informed that the video recording is prohibited.

When you are inside, you feel the part of the historic city.

Some of the ancient exhibits have been displayed here.

Furthermore, the master plan for development of Akhsikent is also provided.

You can also see pictures depicting the old Akhsikent.

Representatives of the administration told Kun.uz correspondents that the whole territory of Akhsikent is currently open, so tourists can go out of the museum and travel through the ancient city.

Within a month the city will be “taken under protection”. The walls are now being built around the ancient city, it is being covered with cattle grids. Later on, tourists will be able to watch the city only accompanied by guides.

It is also planned to build a symbolic arch as the mark of the glory of Akhsikent, install statues of Umarsheikh Mirzo and Babur.

In addition, sailing across the Syrdarya River and riding camels inside the city will be organized.

In general, the necessary infrastructure will be created and Akhsikent will become a tourist destination.