Fergana Valley

The Fergana Valley is the agricultural and craft powerhouse of Uzbekistan, offering families a greener, more hands-on experience than the desert cities. Unlike the monument-heavy itinerary of the Silk Road route, Fergana focuses on how things are made. The region is a patchwork of fruit orchards, cotton fields, and busy market towns, enclosed by dramatic mountain ranges. It provides a distinct look at daily Uzbek life and hospitality.

A major highlight for families is the town of Rishtan, famous for its blue glazed ceramics. Many masters open their home workshops to tourists, where children can sit at a potter's wheel or try painting traditional floral patterns on plates. It is a messy, creative activity that connects them directly to local culture. In Margilan, the Yodgorlik Silk Factory demonstrates the entire process of silk production. Kids are often fascinated by the life cycle of the silkworm, watching the staff boil cocoons and unwind the delicate threads to weave the colourful ikat fabrics.

Kokand, the historic entry point to the valley, features the Palace of Khudayar Khan. Its colourful facade and many courtyards are fun to explore, giving a sense of the opulent Khanate era without being overwhelming. The region is also famous for its bread; Fergana non is dense and buttery, and seeing bakers slap the dough onto the walls of hot clay ovens is a spectacle in itself.

Travel and Climate: The valley has a milder climate than the central deserts, though summers are still hot. Access involves either a flight to Fergana City or a drive/train ride through the Kamchik Pass. The drive offers mountain views but can be long for small children, so the train is often a better option for comfort. The region is more conservative than Tashkent, so modest dress is respectful. Families will find an abundance of fresh fruit—apricots, pomegranates, and melons—sold cheaply at roadside stalls, providing healthy snacks throughout the trip.