Uzbekistan has launched a new high-speed rail service connecting Tashkent and Shakhrisabz, expanding domestic connectivity and access to key cultural destinations.
The Afrosiyob high-speed train began operations on March 27, running between the capital and Shakhrisabz three times a week, according to the national railway operator.
The service departs Tashkent at 06:33 and returns from Shakhrisabz at 16:24, offering a same-day travel option designed to support both leisure and regional mobility.
Shakhrisabz, a UNESCO-listed city and birthplace of Amir Timur, has seen growing interest from international visitors as Uzbekistan promotes cultural tourism beyond established hubs such as Samarkand and Bukhara. The introduction of high-speed rail is expected to make the destination more accessible, particularly for short itineraries.
The new route forms part of Uzbekistan’s broader investment in rail infrastructure, with the Afrosiyob network already linking major cities across the country. High-speed services have been positioned as a key driver of domestic tourism, reducing travel times and improving passenger comfort.
Officials said the addition of the Tashkent–Shakhrisabz connection is intended to strengthen interregional links and provide more convenient travel options for residents and visitors. Tickets are available through railway ticket offices and online booking platforms.
The expansion aligns with wider government efforts to enhance transport infrastructure and support tourism growth, particularly in secondary destinations with strong cultural and historical appeal.