Khalchayan Archaeological Site

Khalchayan is an archaeological site in Surxondaryo Region of southern Uzbekistan notable for a series of clay sculptures and reliefs associated with early Central Asian polities.

The site is primarily of interest for its sculptural and archaeological material rather than visitor facilities; finds from the site illustrate artistic connections across Central Asia and the Hellenistic world. Many artifacts recovered at excavations are held in regional museums.

Excavations in the 20th century uncovered terracotta portrait sculptures and reliefs that have been dated to the late Hellenistic to early Kushan period, reflecting the region’s position in transregional cultural networks.

Khalchayan is located in Surxondaryo Region in southern Uzbekistan, within the broader Denov area of archaeological interest in the Khatlon/Amu Darya cultural zone.

• Notable finds: Site is known for distinctive terracotta and clay sculptures and reliefs that reflect Hellenistic and Central Asian influences from the early centuries of the common era.

Khalchayan is in Surxondaryo Region of southern Uzbekistan. Termiz is the regional center and the usual base for archaeological visits; from Termiz local roads and short drives reach excavation zones and museums that display Khalchayan finds.

• Viewing of excavated remains may be limited-contact the Surxondaryo regional museum in Termiz for current access and exhibits.
• Look for the distinctive terracotta heads and sculptural fragments that link Khalchayan to the Hellenistic visual world.
• Combine a visit with Termiz's other archaeological sites (such as the Buddhist ruins in Termez) for a fuller regional archaeology day.