Kokand is one of Uzbekistan’s historic cities, located in the Fergana Valley. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it was the capital of the Kokand Khanate and a vital political, commercial, and religious hub. Today, visitors come here to see the khan’s palace, ancient mosques, and 19th-century Russian Art Nouveau mansions.
Kokand offers a glimpse into a less touristy and more everyday side of Uzbekistan. Historical monuments stand amidst modern buildings and residential neighbourhoods, where daily life goes on as usual. This blend of history and contemporary life is what makes Kokand worth exploring.
The History of Kokand
Kokand is considered one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. The city was first mentioned in written sources dating back to the 10th century AD, although the area had been inhabited long before that.
Kokand entered its golden age in the 18th century when it became the capital of the Kokand Khanate. At its height, the khanate controlled vast territories across modern-day Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and southern Kazakhstan.
The capital grew into a major political, commercial, and religious center. Mosques, madrasas, palaces, and mausoleums were built throughout the city. At the height of its development, Kokand was home to over 300 mosques and 40 madrasas.
The Kokand Khanate was abolished in 1876 following its conquest by the Russian Empire. However, the city continued to thrive as a commercial and artisanal hub. In Kokand, one can still see merchant mansions, bank buildings, and other examples of Russian colonial architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In 1924, Kokand became part of the Uzbek SSR. During the Soviet period, the city evolved into a major industrial center.
Today, Kokand is a fast growing city with a population of over 300,000. New residential areas are being built, industry and tourism are flourishing. Unique monuments from the era of the Kokand Khanate are preserved as a vital part of Uzbekistan's cultural heritage.
Why is Kokand Worth Visiting?
Kokand’s main attraction is the Palace of Khudayar Khan, built in 1871. The complex was designed to demonstrate the khan’s power and wealth and was decorated with colorful ceramic tiles, carved stucco, and painted interiors.
The Jami Mosque is another architectural highlight of Kokand. Its spacious courtyard is surrounded by a long gallery supported by carved wooden columns.
Nearby stand other monuments from the Khanate era: the Norbut-biy Madrasa, the Madari-khan Mausoleum, and the Dahma-i-Shahan Necropolis. Together, they offer a glimpse of what Kokand looked like during its heyday.
Kokand is also associated with the traditional crafts of the Fergana Valley. Visitors can explore workshops, watch artisans at work, and buy handmade ceramics, embroidered textiles, carved wooden items, and other handcrafted goods.
The city is also an excellent base for exploring the region’s famous craft centers. Nearby Rishtan is known for its ceramics, and Margilan is famous for silk production and traditional ikat fabrics.