Tombs and mausoleums don't usually sound like places of awe and beauty, but when you think about some of the world's greatest monuments (the Pyramids at Giza, the Taj Mahal), many of them are. Shah-i-Zinda is one of those places, on a smaller scale, particularly as it is a necropolis, but it is magnificent in every way. It looks unassuming from the exterior, until you get inside. The tilework on the exteriors of some of the tombs are astounding with some of the interior tilework and mosaics jawdropping. As it is a holy site, be respectful in manner of dress and behavior when visiting. Note: Make sure you cross the pedestrian bridge, past the Siab Bazaar to get to the correct side (cemetery side) of the highway the complex is on. Otherwise, you will be waiting for a light that never changes and nervously waiting for cars to stop or dart between to get to the entrance.

Spectacular religious site lined with mausoleums, some of which elaborately and most colourfully decorated. I was there during the 1300 prayer, so I remained in the top section with very few people. Managed striking photos without people. Thanks for the vote, if you found this review helpful.

Majestic! We visited on a sunday morning during peak season so it was exceptionally crowded. It would be a good idea for tourists to try and visit a little early in the morning or else on a weekday to avoid rush & also get better pictures. The masoleums are beautiful and worth a visit!

An unbelievable amount of history is buried within this small complex of mausolea. The surrounding cemetery is also beautiful and provides good views of the city. If you come across a loud and disrespectful group of Russian social-media influencers blocking doors and causing general consternation, don't be afraid to push past them to pay your polite respects in each of the mausolea.

I have no idea why I've decided to write a comment about this place only after having visited it many times. I guess it's time I share my own thoughts about my own country. I'm local, was born in Tashkent, been to Samarkand 20 times if not mistaken..Samarkand is a very very ancient city and it gives me the atmosphere of middle ages every time I visit it. Shahizinda is one of the greatest ones.

The necropolis is fascinating. Abutting the modern day cemetery, this collection of mausoleums is both interesting and beautiful, and the main ‘road’ really does make for a spectacular walk through. It’s historically fascinating too and certainly worth having a guide with you if possible.

This is a necropolis dating back to the 11th-15th and 19th centuries. Includes more than 20 buildings. Beautiful tile work I’m the mausoleums. When walking the complex check out Dadajon Turdialiev. He is a miniaturist and does amazing work at vert good prices.

Perhaps even more beautiful than the most famous Registan. The old necropolis is a sequence of tombs all decorated. Better to go when the sun is high enough to penetrate into the narrow street and light the mosaics of the tombs. No to be missed in a visit in Samarkand.

One of the most spectacular sites I have seen - easily on par with the other one in India.. Well restored and visually stunning to near overwhelming. I was clever and went back a second time to take it in again and once again it was brilliant - but I felt less overwhelmed so could really enjoy and immerse myself. go twice!

Shah-i-Zinda which translates to mean ‘the living King’ is so beautiful and definitely a place that will give you wonderful memories, long after you leave. It is located to the East of Samarkand. The buildings, its history, architecture, tile work and colours are fascinating and amazing. Find time when you’re exploring Samarkand to visit here.