Bahauddin Naqshband Mausoleum

Overview

The Bahauddin Naqshband Mausoleum complex, located 12 km southeast of Bukhara, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central Asia. It honors the 14th-century Sufi mystic who founded the Naqshbandi order, one of the most influential Sufi brotherhoods in the Islamic world.

Highlights

• Pilgrimage Site: Muslims from across Central Asia visit to pray at the tomb, walking three times around the sacred mulberry tree.
• Sacred Mulberry Tree: A massive, ancient mulberry tree at the entrance is considered sacred — pilgrims walk around it and tie prayer ribbons.
• Mosque and Khanaka: A restored mosque, khanaka (Sufi lodge), and museum surround the central mausoleum.

History

Bahauddin Naqshband (1318–1389) founded the Naqshbandi Sufi order, which spread across the Islamic world from Turkey to Indonesia. The complex around his tomb was expanded by successive rulers, including Timur's descendants. During the Soviet era, the site was closed to pilgrims; it was reopened and restored after independence.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Dress modestly and act respectfully — this is an active pilgrimage site, not just a tourist attraction.
• Tip 2: Take a taxi from central Bukhara (15-20 minutes, about 20,000 UZS).
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.