The Desert Castles of Ancient Khorezm: Seven-Fortress Day Trip from Khiva

<section><h2>Overview</h2><p>This is the fuller version of the desert-castles day for anyone with a real interest in the archaeology of Khorezm. It covers about 280 kilometres and visits seven sites, from compact forts to the ruins of whole walled towns.</p></section><section><h2>The day</h2><p>The first three are the best known: Kyzyl Kala, Toprak Kala with its palace, and Ayaz Kala on its hill. From there the route goes deeper into the desert to Kirk Kyz Kala, the Fortress of Forty Maidens, and Janbas Kala, a rectangular walled town.</p><p>Koy Krylgan Kala is unusual for its circular plan and is thought to have combined a temple with a place for observing the sky. The last site is Guldursun Kala, a large medieval fortress, before the drive back to Khiva.</p></section><section><h2>Highlights</h2><ul><li>Seven fortresses of ancient Khorezm in one day</li><li>Ayaz Kala and Toprak Kala</li><li>The circular ruins of Koy Krylgan Kala</li><li>The walled town of Janbas Kala</li><li>Guldursun Kala</li></ul></section>