Stay in a 19th-century madrasa in the heart of Khiva’s Ichan Qala.
Once one of the largest Islamic schools in Khiva, the one-time Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa is now home to the Orient Star Hotel. A stay here gives you the exceptional opportunity to sleep within a beautifully restored historic building, in the heart of Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Ichan Qala.
Rooms have been converted from the small former student hujras (cells). Brimming with historic atmosphere, they’ve been simply and traditionally furnished. Traditional Suzani textiles adorn each room, carved wooden friezes and window panels showcase traditional craftsmanship. At the hotel’s core is the vast central courtyard, which exudes a serene atmospheric calm, surrounded by arcaded walkways, glazed tilework, and arched alcoves, all of which are the hallmarks of Central Asian madrasa architecture.
The hotel’s restaurant sits in the adjacent Matniyaz Divanbegi madrasa and features traditional Khorezm cuisine in an impressive hall with soaring ceilings and decorative tilework. More a historical and cultural immersion than a sophisticated luxurious stay, the Orient Star Hotel gives you unparalleled access to some of the city’s most treasured architectural sights.
OUR OPINION:
An inimitable opportunity to stay in former scholars’ cells within an Islamic madrasa, deep in the heart of Ichan Qala. Wandering the courtyards and dining in lofty halls, you’re utterly immersed in atmospheric heritage.
Speak to someone
who's been there
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Uzbekistan specialists
-
01993 838 92501993 838 205
- Make an enquiry
Photos of Orient Star Hotel, Khiva
Single Room, Orient Star Hotel
Exterior, Kamil Palace Hotel
Lobby, Kamil Palace Hotel
Twin Room, Orient Star Khiva
Restaurant, Orient Star Khiva
Orient Star Hotel, Uzbekistan
Courtyard, Kamil Palace Hotel
Double Room, Orient Star Khiva
Rooms
Rooms at Orient Star Hotel, Khiva are housed in the madrasa’s former hujras (scholars’ cells) and, as such, are a modest size. However, they are thoughtfully and comfortably furnished creating a unique atmosphere of living history. Some have views across the garden, courtyard, narrow streets or even the nearby Kalta Minaret.
Location
Orient Star Hotel, Khiva sits within the historic mudbrick walls of Khiva’s Itchan Kala, placing you directly among the city’s main sights. The Kalta Minor Minaret is immediately in front of the hotel, offering quiet private views once the crowds have dispersed. The hotel is within the pedestrian-only UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a short walk from the gate on arrival.
Food and drink
- Buffet breakfast is included and served in the striking dining hall of the adjacent madrasa.
- Lunch and dinner offered in the restaurant, comprising Khorezm specialities and European dishes.
- Underground tearoom serving wide tea selection beneath the courtyard.
- Limited selection of alcohol available at the evening bar.
Tour ideas in Khiva
Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Orient Star Hotel, Khiva as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.
-
![Bukhara]()
-
![Song-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan]()
Highlights of Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan's mountains & Uzbekistan's architecture
Uzbekistan and KyrgyzstanView this tour
Alternative places to stay nearby
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.
-
![Hotel Zarafshon, Khiva]()
Zarafshon Boutique Hotel
Khiva
Experiences while staying here
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area's inhabitants.
-
Guided walking tour of Khiva ![Ancient city walls of Khiva]()
Guided walking tour of Khiva
Guided walking tour of Khiva
With a local guide, you’ll wander through Khiva’s walled old town, Itchan Kala, discovering its historic madrasas, mosques, and minarets before exploring the Ark’s palaces and vibrant bazaars, uncovering the rich history and culture of this Silk Road highlight.
View details
