The Tosh Hovli Palace looked very unassuming from the outside and if you just popped your head through the door you'd see a dull courtyard with a European carriage in it, a gift from the Tsar and nothing else. There were doorways to other rooms and the place was a real warren with some rooms having displays and exhibitions, some being amazingly decorated courtyards, especially the harem and also a yurt used when the ruler wanted to pretend he was still a nomadic tribesman, not the ruler of an urbanised city state. The wall decorations and ceilings were again beautiful.

This is one of those sites in Khiva that really warrants a local guide.....we visited this palace with our fantastic guide Umida (from Islambek Travel) and came back the next day again....still think we missed parts....as there is so much to see around every corner. Hearing the stories of the palace was fantastic, we were transported back to another era of concubines, hidden doorways and lavish surrounds. The amazing ceramic tiles still remain today, a must visit.

Lots of beautiful blue tile work which has been well restored. Loved yhe old carriage and even more, the ruts carved into the stone path so the occupants could have a smoother ride.