Main sights and visitor experience

The main sights in the northwestern part of Itchan Kala are grouped close to the western entrance. Kalta Minor is one of the area's most recognizable landmarks, and Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasa stands beside it as part of a major architectural ensemble. Kunya-Ark, the former citadel of Khiva's rulers, is also here. Together with the fortress walls, gateways, courtyards, and museum-like historic interiors, these are the principal attractions in this section.

The area follows a dense historic layout rather than a modern street plan. Narrow pedestrian lanes run between closely spaced historic buildings, and the flat terrain makes walking straightforward. Fortress walls, monumental gateways, blue-tiled facades, and courtyard spaces define the setting. The atmosphere is more visitor-focused than residential, as several of Khiva's headline monuments are concentrated here and many people pass through at the start of their route across Itchan Kala.

Beyond the main monuments, visitors also spend time on photography, city views, and browsing small souvenir and handicraft shops along the main visitor routes. Restaurants and tea houses elsewhere in the inner city often occupy restored historic buildings or courtyard settings. In the evening, the area remains relatively quiet, with the focus on walking, dining, and the historic surroundings rather than nightlife. For many visitors, this is one of the most practical sections to see before continuing deeper into Itchan Kala.