Chorsu Bazaar: 10 Things to Do in Uzbekistan’s Largest Market
Located in the city of Guliston in Uzbekistan, Chorsu Bazaar is one of the largest markets in Central Asia. It is a bustling center of activity and commerce, where you can find a wide variety of goods ranging from traditional Uzbek handicrafts to exotic fruits and vegetables. Here are 10 things to do in the Chorsu Bazaar.
1. Sample the Local Cuisine: Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to get a taste of traditional Uzbek cuisine. From steaming hot plov (a rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables) to shashlik (grilled kebabs) and somsa (meat-filled pastries), the market’s food stalls offer an array of delicious dishes. Be sure to wash it all down with a cup of refreshing chai (tea).
2. Shop for Handicrafts: Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to buy traditional Uzbek handicrafts. From colorful carpets and embroidered fabrics to intricate wood carvings and hand-painted ceramics, you’ll find a wide variety of handmade items to take home.
3. Explore the Spice Stalls: The Chorsu Bazaar is home to an array of spice stalls selling a wide variety of herbs and spices. From cumin and coriander to saffron and cardamom, you’ll find everything you need to give your dishes that extra kick.
4. Buy Fresh Produce: The Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to buy fresh produce. From exotic fruits and vegetables to nuts and dried fruits, you’ll find everything you need to make a delicious meal.
5. Explore the Clothing Stalls: The Chorsu Bazaar is also home to a wide variety of clothing stalls selling traditional Uzbek clothing. From colorful robes and dresses to hats and scarves, you’ll find everything you need to dress like a local.
6. Take a Ride on the Ferris Wheel: For a unique view of the Chorsu Bazaar, take a ride on the Ferris wheel. From the top, you’ll be able to take in the hustle and bustle of the market from a different perspective.
7. Visit the Mosques: The Chorsu Bazaar is home to two mosques, both of which are worth visiting. The larger of the two, the Chorsu Mosque, was built in the 16th century and is a beautiful example of Uzbek architecture.
8. Buy Traditional Musical Instruments: The Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to buy traditional Uzbek musical instruments. From the dutar (a two-stringed lute) to the doira (a frame drum), you’ll find a wide variety of instruments to choose from.
9. Take a Photo with the Street Performers: The Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to take a photo with the street performers. From acrobats to musicians, you’ll find a wide variety of performers to take a photo with.
10. Browse the Souvenir Stalls: The Chorsu Bazaar is also home to a wide variety of souvenir stalls selling a wide variety of traditional Uzbek souvenirs. From handmade jewelry to traditional Uzbek dolls, you’ll find everything you need to take home a piece of Uzbek culture.
Chorsu Bazaar is a great place to explore and experience the culture and traditions of Uzbekistan. Whether you’re looking to sample the local cuisine, shop for handicrafts, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel, there’s something for everyone in this bustling market.