Kokand – The Royal City of the Fergana Valley. Kokand, located at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of the Fergana Valley, is a city with a regal past and a vibrant present. Once the capital of the powerful Kokand Khanate, it was a major political, cultural, and spiritual center of Central Asia. With a history spanning over two thousand years, Kokand flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries as a center of diplomacy, scholarship, and architecture. The city’s crown jewel is the magnificent Khudoyar Khan Palace — an architectural masterpiece with a richly decorated façade, colorful tilework, and 113 rooms that once housed khans and courtiers. Though only a portion of it remains today, it still reflects the grandeur of the khanate era. Just steps away is the Jami Mosque, with its elegant wooden pillars and open veranda — a fine example of local craftsmanship and religious devotion. The Norbutabiy Madrasah, another important landmark, continues to echo the scholarly life of Kokand, where religious and philosophical thought once thrived. Today, Kokand is a peaceful city that harmoniously blends history with everyday life. Its markets are full of handwoven fabrics, ceramics, and traditional sweets.
Locals are known for their hospitality, warm smiles, and strong connection to their heritage. Each year, Kokand hosts the International Festival of Applied Arts, drawing artisans and visitors from around the world to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship. Visiting Kokand means walking in the footsteps of khans, exploring rich traditions, and experiencing the timeless rhythm of the Fergana Valley. It’s a place where the echoes of the past meet the colors of the present — and where every traveler finds a story to carry home.
