Things To Do
in Qo‘qon

Qo‘qon, also known as Kokand, is a historic city located in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan. It boasts a rich cultural heritage characterized by its ancient architecture, particularly the magnificent Khudayar Khan Palace. The city is an important center for traditional crafts and trade, reflecting the historical Silk Road's influence.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, sample delicious cuisine, and explore stunning landscapes nearby.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Qo‘qon
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Khudayar Khan Palace, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, where you can explore its intricately decorated rooms and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery and then head to the Jami Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the region, to admire its grand minarets and serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to the local bazaar, where you can shop for handicrafts and enjoy street food delicacies like shashlik and samsa.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a trip to the nearby Rishton ceramic workshops, known for their beautiful pottery, and even try your hand at crafting.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a short hike in the surrounding mountains, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Fergana Valley.

evening
:

Return to Qo‘qon for dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a cultural performance featuring local music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.30
🥙Street Food Snack$1
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Uzbek speakers.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "Salom" - Hello
  • "Rahmat" - Thank you
  • "Iltimos" - Please
  • "Qayerdasiz?" - Where are you?
  • "Yaxshi" - Good

Places to Visit in Qo‘qon

Visit one of these nice places.

Khudayar Khan Palace

The intricate designs and stunning architecture of the palace offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Jami Mosque

The grand minaret and beautiful courtyard of the mosque create a picturesque setting for photography.

Fergana Valley Viewpoints

Various viewpoints around the city provide breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qo‘qon

Qo‘qon offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich traditions of Uzbekistan, with an array of flavors and dishes that are sure to please any palate.

Qo‘qon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Plov

A classic Uzbek dish made with rice, meat, carrots, and spices, often considered the national dish.

Must-Try!

Samsa

Savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, baked to golden perfection and often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with fresh vegetables and flatbread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qo‘qon Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qo‘qon experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters can drop below freezing at night. Spring and autumn provide mild and pleasant weather, making them ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders; it is an important cultural norm in Uzbekistan.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts or trousers.

Hospitality

Uzbek culture places a high value on hospitality; it is customary to accept offers of food or drink when visiting someone’s home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qo‘qon is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always be aware of your surroundings, and it's best to travel in groups when possible.

Tipping in Qo‘qon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Pleasant weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Hot temperatures can reach above 35°C (95°F); stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest hours.

Autumn (September to November)

Mild temperatures and beautiful fall colors make this a lovely time to visit, especially for photography.

Winter (December to February)

Cold temperatures, particularly at night, and occasional snowfall; warm clothing is essential.

Nightlife Guide

Qo‘qon at Night

Qo‘qon has a modest nightlife scene, mainly centered around cafes and restaurants where locals gather in the evenings. While there are no large nightclubs, bars offer a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Traditional music performances and cultural shows can also be enjoyed at certain venues, providing a taste of local entertainment.

Hiking in Qo‘qon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chust Valley Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Chust Valley and the surrounding mountains, ideal for nature lovers.

Kokand Mountains Trail

This trail provides a moderate hike with picturesque landscapes, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Qo‘qon by plane.

Fergana International Airport

Located about 45 kilometers from Qo‘qon, this airport serves domestic flights and a few international routes, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qo‘qon is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the downtown area, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Uzbeks

The majority ethnic group, Uzbeks make up most of the population and play a significant role in the culture and traditions of Qo‘qon.

Kazakhs

A notable minority group, Kazakhs contribute to the cultural diversity of the region and often share similar traditions with Uzbeks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Qo‘qon, with local teams that compete in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling, known as kurash, is also popular and often featured in local festivals and cultural events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qo‘qon is relatively light compared to larger cities, with most residents using private vehicles or public transport. Minibuses and taxis are the main forms of public transportation, and walking is also a common way to get around. Traffic rules are followed, but it’s always good to be cautious while crossing streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qo‘qon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple in Uzbek cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and vegetable dumplings.

Halal

Most local eateries serve halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Qo‘qon are basic, with several clinics and a few hospitals available for minor ailments. For serious medical conditions, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Fergana or Tashkent. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Uzbekistan

Read more in our Uzbekistan 2025 Travel Guide.

Uzbekistan Travel Guide