Is January a good time to visit Uzbekistan?
January is slap bang in the middle of winter, so expect cold days and the odd snow flurry. The weather shifts a bit depending on where you go. Tashkent usually sits between 28°F (-2°C) and 43°F (6°C), while spots like Samarkand and Bukhara can feel even chillier after dark. Up in the Fergana Valley and the mountains, it’s properly freezing and snow is pretty much guaranteed, which is great news if you’re into skiing or snowboarding around places like Chimgan.
The cold can mess with travel plans, especially in rural or mountain areas where icy roads might slow things down. That said, major cities are easy to get around and historic sights like Registan Square or Khiva’s old town are wonderfully quiet. It almost feels like you’ve got them to yourself. It’s off-season too, so flights and places to stay are usually cheaper.
If you’re fine with the cold, January can be a really special time to experience the country’s culture. Just make sure you pack plenty of layers, because nights can get properly nippy. And if you're weighing up reasons to visit Uzbekistan, winter’s peace and low prices definitely earn a spot on the list.
Average daily temperatures in January
Winter hits hard in January and temps can swing quite a bit depending on where you are. In Tashkent, highs reach around 44°F (7°C), while nighttime lows settle near 30°F (-1°C), often with a bit of frost and the odd snowfall. Samarkand and Bukhara are similar, with daytime temps hovering around 41°F (5°C) and dropping to about 27°F (-3°C) after dark.
The Fergana Valley’s a touch milder, with highs around 46°F (8°C) and lows close to freezing. But out in the deserts, like Khiva or the Kyzylkum, it’s a sharper cold. Daytime temps top out at 37°F (3°C) and nights can sink to 21°F (-6°C).
Up in the mountains, such as Chimgan and Nuratau, it’s a whole different story. Sub-zero temps are the norm and the snowfall is heavy, making it perfect for skiing and other snowy fun.
Despite the chill, cities often get crisp, sunny days, so you can still see the sights as long as you're wrapped up warm. Evenings, especially in the countryside or desert, can be seriously cold, so come prepared.