Founded in 1876 as a garrison town for the Russian Empire, Fergana lies in a picturesque valley in Uzbekistan’s south. The area has been settled since the Chalcolithic period and was once ruled by the Western Turkic Khaganate before being developed as a textile manufacturing hub in the 20th century.
Things to do in Fergana
Begin your visit at the Fergana Regional Museum of Local Lore, which boasts a fascinating collection of artefacts related to the region’s history, culture and art. Established in 1899, it is one of the oldest museums in Uzbekistan and houses more than 3,000 archaeological objects discovered in the Fergana Valley. At the museum, you can see what life was like in Fergana in the late 19th century and admire paintings by local artists.
The nearby town of Margilan is considered the “Silk Capital of Uzbekistan” and is home to the Yodgorlik Silk Factory. Join a guided tour to learn about the traditional production of silk over the last thousand years, beginning with a visit to the factory’s 140-year-old mulberry tree. Watch as colourful fabrics are woven on traditional looms before browsing the beautiful offerings in the showroom.
One of the Fergana Valley’s most magnificent buildings is the Palace of Khudayar Khan, which is affectionately known as the “Pearl of Kokand”. Designed by Mir Ubaydullo in the late 19th century, it boasts a richly tiled facade featuring geometric patterns and inscriptions. Wander through its beautifully crafted rooms and visit the on-site museum where palace artefacts and costumes are exhibited.
Getting around Fergana
Fergana International Airport is a 10-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Central Asia and Russia. Regular trains connect to the Fergana 1 and Fergana 2 railway stations and buses travel throughout the city.