A provincial capital, located around 40 kilometers from Samarkand, the country's most widely visited city, Urgut punches above its weight with its incredible bazaar which draws thousands of locals and tourists each day. The prices are particularly low, while the quality of the products is excellent. However, as the bazaar has become an institution, it is sometimes more difficult to get the very best prices on the products that are sold there. Jewelry, and products made with suzani and silk fabrics, are some of the most highly prized items.
Even though I was particularly charmed by the special, and extremely lively atmosphere of the market, I must admit that the rest of the city of Urgut left me somewhat cold. Nevertheless, its closeness to Samarkand means that it is an interesting destination for a day trip to experience the authentic Uzbekistan.