Lying a day’s drive south-east of Tashkent and encircled by the snowy peaks of the Tian Shan range, the Ferghana Valley is a lush, fertile area where over many generations artisans have continued to make silk, ceramics and wood carvings in the traditional way. Visit the Margilan silk factory and learn how this exquisite material is made as well and also a pottery workshop. This extension explores a less visited region and provides a great contrast to the main sites.
Take the early morning train from Tashkent to Kokand arriving just around midday. After lunch visit Khudayar Khan’s Palace, the Juma Mosque, Dahmai Shahon (Grave of Kings) and a local knife maker. Then drive to Ok-Yer to meet a local Kyrgyz family where you can watch the process of wool yawning, felt carpet making and yurt construction. Later drive to Margilan, known for its pomegranates and apricots, and check into your hotel.
After breakfast visit Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasah. Today, the madrasah is home to a number of craftsmen producing handmade carpets, silk, and a jeweller’s workshop. Have a walk around the traditional market and continue to Yodgorlik Silk factory to see the production process of silk with traditional Ikat patterns. Also take a look around the Pir Siddiq Mausoleum. After this sightseeing, drive to Rishtan and visit the Mosque and Mausoleum of Khoja Ilgor. Visit the house of a well-known ceramic master and enjoy a pottery workshop and have a look at a ceramic collection in a small museum
This morning drive to Tashkent via the Kamchick Pass. Upon arrival in Tashkent, transfer to your hotel or the airport.
DETAILS:
This itinerary costs from £485 per person B&B based on 2 sharing and including all private transfers.
You can get flights from as little as £570 per person return and do ask us for advice. Alternatively we can book the flights for you but a booking fee may apply.
Do you fancy having a chat about Fergana Valley Extension? Personally, it's one of our favourite things to talk about.