Things to Do in Fergana, Oʻzbekiston

Fergana is the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan's fertile Fergana Valley, a region renowned for its agricultural abundance and rich cultural heritage. This historic city serves as the gateway to one of Central Asia's most densely populated and economically important valleys, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Tian Shan and Pamir-Alay mountain ranges. The valley has been a crucial stop along the ancient Silk Road for over two millennia, connecting civilizations and fostering trade between East and West. Today, Fergana combines modern urban development with traditional Uzbek culture, offering visitors a glimpse into contemporary Central Asian life while preserving its historical significance. The city is famous for its thriving bazaars, traditional crafts including silk production and pottery, and serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader Fergana Valley region with its numerous historical sites, artisan workshops, and scenic landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Fergana

Explore Fergana Central Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Fergana's main bazaar, where locals trade everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and textiles. The market offers an authentic glimpse into daily life in the Fergana Valley and is an excellent place to sample local fruits, nuts, and traditional Uzbek bread. You'll find beautiful handwoven silk scarves, ceramics, and other regional specialties.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest produce and most active trading. No booking required, but bring small denomination som notes for purchases. Friday mornings are particularly vibrant.

Visit Traditional Silk Workshops

Discover the ancient art of silk production that has made the Fergana Valley famous throughout Central Asia. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional techniques of silk weaving, dyeing, and ikat pattern creation that have been passed down through generations. Many workshops offer hands-on experiences where you can try your hand at the craft.

Booking Tip: Contact workshops directly or through your hotel for visits, typically costing $10-20 per person. Best visited on weekdays when artisans are actively working. Some workshops offer silk scarves and fabrics for purchase at reasonable prices.

Explore Fergana Regional Museum

Learn about the rich history and culture of the Fergana Valley through extensive collections of archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, and historical exhibits. The museum provides excellent context for understanding the region's role in Silk Road trade and its diverse cultural influences. Displays include ancient coins, manuscripts, and examples of local craftsmanship.

Booking Tip: Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 AM-5 PM, with entrance fees around $2-3. English-speaking guides available for $5-10 extra. Photography permits cost additional $2-3.

Day Trip to Margilan

Visit the nearby city of Margilan, considered the silk capital of Uzbekistan and home to the famous Yodgorlik Silk Factory. Explore traditional mahallas (neighborhoods) with their distinctive architecture and visit local artisan workshops. The city also features beautiful mosques and madrasas showcasing Islamic architecture.

Booking Tip: Hire a taxi for the day ($20-30) or take shared transport for $2-3 each way. Factory tours cost $5-10 per person. Best visited Tuesday-Saturday when the factory is operational.

Pottery Workshop Experience

Participate in traditional pottery making at one of Fergana's ceramic workshops, learning techniques that have been refined over centuries. Create your own pieces under the guidance of master potters and learn about the distinctive glazes and patterns characteristic of Fergana ceramics. The experience includes insights into the cultural significance of pottery in Uzbek households.

Booking Tip: Book through local tour operators or directly with workshops for $15-25 per person including materials. Sessions typically last 2-3 hours. Finished pieces can be shipped internationally for an additional fee.

Getting There

Fergana is accessible by domestic flights from Tashkent (1 hour) to Fergana Airport, located about 5km from the city center. Alternatively, you can take a comfortable train journey from Tashkent (approximately 4-5 hours) or travel by shared taxi or bus, which takes around 3-4 hours depending on road conditions. The scenic drive through the mountains offers beautiful views of the Uzbek countryside. International visitors typically fly into Tashkent first and then connect to Fergana via domestic transport.

Getting Around

Getting around Fergana is relatively easy with various local transportation options. Taxis are abundant and affordable, with short rides within the city costing $1-3 - always agree on the price before starting your journey. Marshrutkas (shared minibuses) connect different parts of the city for under $1, though they can be crowded during peak hours. Many attractions within the city center are walkable, and renting a bicycle is becoming increasingly popular for exploring the more residential areas and nearby countryside.

Where to Stay

City Center

Near Fergana Airport

Al-Fergani District

Dustlik Area

Near Central Market

Residential Mahallas

Food & Dining

Fergana offers an excellent introduction to authentic Uzbek cuisine with numerous local restaurants and teahouses serving traditional dishes. Try the famous Fergana plov (pilaf), which has its own regional variations, along with fresh nan bread, shashlik (grilled meat), and seasonal fruits from the fertile valley. Local chaikhanas (teahouses) provide a social dining experience where you can enjoy green tea and conversation with locals. The city also has several modern restaurants offering international cuisine, though the real culinary treasures are found in family-run establishments and the food stalls around the central market.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Fergana is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful blooming fruit trees and pleasant weather perfect for exploring outdoor markets and taking day trips. Summer can be quite hot with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F), though early mornings and evenings remain pleasant. Winter (December-February) can be cold with occasional snow, but it's also less crowded and offers a different perspective on local life, plus indoor activities like workshop visits are particularly cozy during this season.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Uzbek or Russian phrases as English is not widely spoken outside of hotels and tour operators

Always carry cash in Uzbek som as credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods

Things to Do in Fergana