The Ata Gate, sometimes called the Bakhcha or West Gate, is the main entrance for visitors arriving from the new town and is the first sight inside the walls — the Kalta Minor stands a few metres beyond it. The current gate dates from the late 19th century and replaced an older structure that stood on the same spot for centuries.
Most combined tickets are sold here at the booth just inside the entrance. The gate itself is a plain brick arch flanked by squat round bastions; the interest is what lies immediately beyond. The arcade between the gate and the Kalta Minor is lined with souvenir stalls.