The Tashkent Metro in Uzbekistan is widely regarded as one of the most architecturally stunning underground transit networks in the world. Opened in 1977 as Central Asia's first subway system, each station is a unique artistic showcase decorated in carved marble, polished granite, ceramic relief murals, and grand chandeliers.
Photography Rules & Ticket Costs
For decades, photography inside the Tashkent Metro was strictly forbidden due to its dual designation as a nuclear bomb shelter. In June 2018, the ban was officially lifted. Tourists and locals are now 100% free to take photos and videos inside all stations.
Single-ride tickets cost just 1,400 to 2,000 UZS (less than $0.15 USD). You can simply tap your contactless Mastercard/Visa card, Apple Pay, or purchase a QR-code paper token at the station entrance.
Top 5 Most Beautiful Metro Stations to Visit
- Kosmonavtlar (Cosmonauts Station - Blue Line): The crowning jewel of the network, featuring dark-blue to light-blue gradient ceramic walls, round moon-like chandeliers, and portrait medallions of Yuri Gagarin and Valentina Tereshkova.
- Alisher Navoi (Red Line): Named after Uzbekistan's national poet, designed like a royal mosque interior with intricate turquoise dome cupolas and Islamic arabesque vaulting.
- Mustaqillik Maydoni (Independence Square - Red Line): Built entirely from white marble extracted from the Kyzylkum desert, illuminated by geometric crystal chandeliers.
- Pakhtakor (Cotton Pickers - Red Line): Adorned with vibrant mosaic wall murals depicting blossoming cotton flowers in classical Uzbek blue and gold tones.
- Toshkent (Blue Line): Commemorates the 2,200th anniversary of Tashkent with blue glazed pottery tiles depicting city milestones and Peacock emblems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the operating hours of the Tashkent Metro?
The metro operates daily from 5:00 AM to midnight. Trains arrive every 3 to 5 minutes during peak hours and every 7 to 10 minutes late at night.
