Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The large-scale event was organised on the initiative of Tashkent State University of Economics in close cooperation with the Tourism Department of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the administration of Ellikqala District and a number of other organisations. Held under the inspiring motto “Together We Will Build a New Uzbekistan!”, the festival became a celebration of tourism, youth policy, science and art in the region.

The main objective of the “Echo of the Desert” international festival was to showcase the unique historical and cultural potential of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, particularly Ellikqala District, in pilgrimage, gastronomic and ecotourism, support local handicraft traditions, and contribute to attracting foreign investment and increasing tourist arrivals to the region.

As part of the festival, an intellectual “Zakovat” competition was held at the Abu Ali ibn Sina Public Health Technical School, demonstrating the knowledge and quick-thinking abilities of young participants. At the Akchakul tourist complex, students and young people competed in volleyball, football, wrestling, tug-of-war, chess and checkers.

During the festival, participants visited Toprak-Kala and Ayaz-Kala, among the region’s oldest and most distinctive archaeological sites. The art competition organised at the Toprak-Kala site was particularly impressive for participants. An excursion to the historic Ichan-Kala complex in Khiva was also organised.

The festival concluded with a large-scale concert programme and an awards ceremony held at the amphitheatre in Ellikqala District.