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Kokand, Oʻzbekiston - Things to Do in Kokand

Things to Do in Kokand

Kokand, Oʻzbekiston - Complete Travel Guide

Kokand is a historic city in the Fergana Valley of eastern Uzbekistan, once serving as the capital of the powerful Kokand Khanate from 1709 to 1876. This ancient Silk Road city boasts remarkable Islamic architecture, including stunning palaces, madrasas, and mosques that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. The city's strategic location made it a crucial trading hub connecting Central Asia with China and India, leaving behind a legacy of architectural marvels and cultural traditions that continue to fascinate visitors today. Today's Kokand offers travelers an authentic glimpse into Uzbekistan's imperial past, with its well-preserved monuments standing as testaments to the city's former glory. The Palace of Khudayar Khan, with its intricate tilework and ornate decorations, serves as the city's crown jewel, while numerous madrasas and mausoleums scattered throughout the old town create an open-air museum of Islamic architecture. Beyond its historical significance, Kokand provides visitors with opportunities to experience traditional Uzbek craftsmanship, sample regional cuisine, and explore the surrounding fertile valleys that have sustained civilizations for millennia.

Top Things to Do in Kokand

Explore the Palace of Khudayar Khan

Visit the magnificent 19th-century palace complex that once housed the rulers of the Kokand Khanate. The palace features stunning tilework, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful courtyards that showcase the pinnacle of Central Asian Islamic architecture. Today it houses a museum displaying artifacts from the khanate period, traditional costumes, and historical documents.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $3-5 USD and the palace is open daily except Mondays. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography, and consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to fully understand the historical significance.

Tour Historic Madrasas and Mosques

Discover Kokand's impressive collection of Islamic educational and religious buildings, including the Norbuta-biy Madrasa, Amin Beg Madrasa, and the Friday Mosque. These architectural gems feature beautiful courtyards, ornate facades, and provide insight into the city's role as a center of Islamic learning. Many still function as active religious sites, offering glimpses into contemporary Uzbek spiritual life.

Booking Tip: Most sites have small entrance fees of $1-3 USD. Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering active mosques. Best visited during morning hours when lighting is optimal and sites are less crowded.

Visit Traditional Craft Workshops

Experience Kokand's living heritage by visiting workshops where artisans practice traditional crafts like silk weaving, pottery, and wood carving. Watch skilled craftspeople create beautiful textiles, ceramics, and decorative items using techniques passed down through generations. Many workshops offer hands-on experiences and sell authentic handmade souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Workshop visits are often free, but purchases help support local artisans. Expect to pay $20-100 for quality handmade items. Visit during weekday mornings when artisans are most active and workshops are fully operational.

Explore Kokand's Bazaars and Markets

Immerse yourself in local life at Kokand's bustling markets, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles and household goods. The markets provide excellent opportunities to sample local foods, interact with friendly locals, and purchase authentic Uzbek products. The atmosphere captures the essence of traditional Central Asian trading culture.

Booking Tip: Markets are free to explore and most active in the morning hours. Bring small denomination som notes for purchases and don't hesitate to bargain politely. Try local snacks and fresh bread from market vendors.

Take Day Trips to Fergana Valley Sites

Use Kokand as a base to explore other historic sites in the fertile Fergana Valley, including nearby ancient settlements, traditional villages, and scenic countryside. The valley offers opportunities to see rural Uzbek life, visit local farms, and explore lesser-known archaeological sites. The surrounding landscape provides beautiful views of mountains and agricultural areas.

Booking Tip: Hire a local driver for $30-50 per day or join organized tours for $40-70 per person. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and scenery. Bring water and snacks as rural areas have limited facilities.

Getting There

Kokand is accessible by road from major Uzbek cities, with the most common route being the 4-5 hour drive from Tashkent via the scenic Kamchik Pass tunnel. Regular shared taxis and buses connect Kokand to Tashkent, Fergana, and other regional cities, with fares ranging from $10-20 USD. The nearest airport is in Fergana, about 90 kilometers away, which has domestic flights from Tashkent. Train connections are available but less frequent and comfortable than road transport.

Getting Around

Kokand is a relatively compact city that can be explored on foot, especially the historic center where most attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Local taxis are abundant and inexpensive, with short rides costing $1-3 USD, while marshrutkas (shared minibuses) provide cheap transportation to outer neighborhoods for under $1. For visiting surrounding areas, hiring a private driver or joining organized tours is recommended, as public transport to rural attractions is limited.

Where to Stay

City Center near Palace of Khudayar Khan
Old Town historic district
Fergana Road area
Near Central Bazaar
Residential neighborhoods with guesthouses
Modern hotel district

Food & Dining

Kokand's dining scene centers around traditional Uzbek cuisine, with numerous chaikhanas (teahouses) serving classic dishes like plov, lagman noodles, and fresh bread baked in traditional tandoor ovens. The city is particularly known for its high-quality plov and regional specialties that reflect the fertile Fergana Valley's agricultural abundance. Local markets offer fresh fruits, nuts, and dairy products, while family-run restaurants provide authentic home-style cooking experiences. Most meals cost $3-8 USD, and vegetarian options are available though meat dishes dominate menus.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Uzbekistan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Besh Qozon

4.6 /5
(5749 reviews)

Forn Lebnen

4.6 /5
(393 reviews)
bakery bar store

Tanuki

4.5 /5
(292 reviews)
meal_delivery

AZUR - Terrace Garden

4.7 /5
(255 reviews)

Sushi Time

4.5 /5
(254 reviews)

Fillet Restaurant

4.8 /5
(232 reviews)

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Kokand is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and the surrounding valley is at its most beautiful. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), making sightseeing uncomfortable during midday hours. Winter (December-February) brings cold weather and occasional snow, though fewer crowds and clear skies can make it appealing for hardy travelers who don't mind bundling up.

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 and ATMs can be unreliable
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and remove shoes before entering mosques and some traditional buildings

Explore Activities in Kokand