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Kok Gumbaz Mosque

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Kok Gumbaz Mosque, meaning 'Blue Dome,' is the largest Friday mosque in Shahrisabz and a stellar example of Timurid architectural mastery. It was commissioned in 1435 by the renowned astronomer-king Ulugh Beg, grandson of Amir Timur, in honor of his father, Shah Rukh. The mosque is the centerpiece of the Dorut Tilyovat (House of Meditation) complex. Its most striking feature is the massive double dome covered in animated blue ceramic tiles, which can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. The building has a monumental portal and a spacious prayer hall with excellent acoustics. Inside, the walls are decorated with delicate blue-on-white floral patterns and intricate calligraphic inscriptions. An inscription above the entrance officially attributes the construction to Ulugh Beg. Today, Kok Gumbaz is a key part of the UNESCO-listed historic center of Shahrisabz and a testament to the artistic heights of the 15th-century Timurid Renaissance.

Location: Uzbekistan
Top sights: Obilisk Orden Amira Timura · Kuk Gumbaz Mosque · Dorus Saodat Complex
Nearby: Samarkand (30 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	2	8	13	19	25	27	26	20	13	7	2
Rain mm	34	44	52	52	26	6	1	1	2	12	32	28

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Kok Gumbaz Mosque in Shahrisabz is an impressive monument with a massive blue dome. It can be visited during the day, the interior is accessible.

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Typical hours

The mosque is typically open from sunrise to sunset, except during prayer times. On Fridays, tourist access may be restricted.

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Photography

Photography is usually allowed inside the mosque, but without flash or tripod. Respect prayer areas where photography may be prohibited.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the mosque and the adjacent square. The surroundings invite a longer stay.

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Combine with

Combine the mosque with the Ak-Saray Palace in Shahrisabz. The historic center with other mausoleums is also within walking distance.

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Getting there

The mosque is on the central square of Shahrisabz, easily reachable on foot from the bus station or old town. Taxis are available on site.

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Insider tip

Visit the mosque in the late afternoon when the light beautifully highlights the blue dome. Wear appropriate clothing and bring a head covering.

Geography

Coordinates

39.04940, 66.82900

Facts

The mosque was built in 1435 by the astronomer Ulugh Beg.
The name Kok Gumbaz translates from Persian as 'Blue Dome.'
The dome's outer diameter measures approximately 46 meters.
It is the main building of the Dorut Tilyovat memorial complex.
Arabic inscriptions on the dome praise God and the Prophet Muhammad.
The structure underwent significant restoration in the 1990s.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Shahrisabz<1 km · SExplore →

Samarkand Automobile Factory29 km · NEExplore →

Samarkand Central Park30 km · NEExplore →

Samarkand Mulberry Plantations30 km · NEExplore →

Bibi-Khanym Mosque31 km · NEExplore →

Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel33 km · NEExplore →

Kitab State Geological Reserve36 km · NExplore →

Zeravshan State Nature Reserve37 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kok Gumbaz Mosque (7)

Obilisk Orden Amira Timura🏺 historical

A monument dedicated to the Order of Amir Timur in his birthplace, the historic city of Shahrisabz.

Kuk Gumbaz Mosque 📍 landmark

Famous for its massive blue dome, this 15th-century Friday mosque was built by Ulugh Beg in honor of his father.

Dorus Saodat Complex 📍 landmark

A Timurid-era memorial complex containing the tomb of Timur's eldest son, Jahangir, and impressive vaulted halls.

Sardoba 📍 landmark

A traditional brick-domed water reservoir designed to keep water cool in the arid Central Asian climate.

Takhta BOZOR🎭 culture

A local market in Shahrisabz specializing in timber and construction materials, reflecting the city's craft traditions.

Rynok Shakhrisabza 🎭 culture

The main central market of Shahrisabz, where locals trade silk, embroidered textiles, and regional agricultural goods.

Bazar Chorsu🎭 culture

This historic bazaar in Shahrisabz is located near the famous Kok Gumbaz Mosque.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Kok-Gumbas Mosque?

An impressive 15th-century mosque known for its huge blue dome.

Can you see the dome from inside?

Yes, the interior is accessible and the architecture is very impressive.

How long does a visit take?

Plan about 30 to 40 minutes.

Is admission free?

Usually a small contribution for maintenance is charged.

What is the best time of day?

In the morning the light is first-rate for photographing the blue tiles.

Kok Gumbaz Mosque: where is it located?

Kok Gumbaz Mosque is located in Uzbekistan.

Kok Gumbaz Mosque: what is there to see?

Highlights include Obilisk Orden Amira Timura, Kuk Gumbaz Mosque, Dorus Saodat Complex.

Kok Gumbaz Mosque: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

Kok Gumbaz Mosque: why is it worth visiting?

The Kok Gumbaz Mosque, meaning 'Blue Dome,' is the largest Friday mosque in Shahrisabz and a stellar example of Timurid architectural mastery.

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