Dishan Kala — Outer Fortress — was the larger walled town surrounding Itchan Kala, built in the 1840s by Allakuli Khan to enclose the markets, residences, and gardens that had grown up outside the inner wall. The outer wall ran for six kilometres and had ten gates. Most of it was demolished in the 20th century, but several stretches survive in the suburbs.
Today Dishan Kala is the everyday town of modern Khiva, with the main bazaar, the Russian-era streets, and the Nurullaboy Palace complex. It is the place to come for a meal, a tea, or supplies — and to escape the slightly preserved-in-amber feel of Itchan Kala. A short walk in any direction from the Polvon Gate brings you into local life.