Uzbek Fergana Valley Travel Guide (Updated December 31, 2025)
The Uzbek Fergana Valley offers fertile landscapes, ancient Silk Road traditions, and authentic cultural experiences beyond Uzbekistan’s famous cities like Samarkand and Bukhara. This region features vibrant silk production in Margilan, stunning ceramics in Rishtan, and historic sites in Kokand—ideal for travelers seeking deeper immersion.
The valley’s complex history stems from Soviet-era border divisions, creating ethnic enclaves and occasional tensions with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. As of 2025, the region remains generally safe for tourists, with improved relations and no major incidents reported recently. Avoid remote border areas; check advisories from sources like RFE/RL or Eurasianet.
Getting There
- From Tashkent: High-speed trains (79,000–204,000 UZS, ~4–5 hours) to Margilan/Kokand/Andijan. Shared taxis from Kuyluk Bazaar (~70,000–100,000 UZS).
- From Kyrgyzstan (Osh): Dostyk crossing open; shared taxis to Andijan (~15,000 UZS).
- From Tajikistan (Khujand): Konibodom/Beshariq crossing reliable; marshrutkas/taxis to Kokand.
- Internal travel: Shared taxis/minibuses (10,000–40,000 UZS between cities); trains limited.
Where to Stay & Eat
Base in Fergana City (central hub) or Margilan. Options include guesthouses/hotels (~$30–80/night). Try plov, laghman, and fresh fruits; restaurants like Traktir Ostrov Sokrovish (Fergana) or chaikhanas.
Top Destinations
Kokand
Historic capital of the Kokand Khanate with impressive architecture.
- Khudayar Khan Palace → Opulent 19th-century residence (15,000 UZS entry).
- Joma Mosque → Grand courtyard and minaret.
- Narbutabey Madrasa/Mosque → Active Islamic school.
Margilan
Central Asia’s silk heart; watch traditional production.
- Yodgorlik Silk Factory → Open in 2025; guided tours (~10,000 UZS) show cocoon-to-fabric process. Shop for scarves/garments.
- Kumtepa Bazaar → Bustling Thursdays/Sundays.
Rishtan
Ceramics center with iconic blue glazes from local ishkar plant.
- Workshops → Visit Alisher Nazirov or Rustam Usmanov; watch throwing/painting; buy direct.
- International Ceramics Center → Multiple artisans.
Other Spots
- Namangan: Mullah Kyrgyz Madrasa, Khoja Amin Mosque/Mausoleum.
- Andijan: Joma Mosque, bazaars.
- Around: Aksikent ruins, Chust knives.
The Uzbek Fergana Valley delivers raw hospitality and crafts. Plan 3–5 days; combine with Tashkent or cross-border trips. Questions? Ask below!