Fergana. The Valley of Craftsmen

Many people who come to Uzbekistan for the first time have already imagined what they will find when they get here, such as aromatic pilau, vibrant and unusual fabrics and painted ceramics set against a backdrop of wonderful landscapes and distant mountains. Far from being disappointed, they will discover to their delight that not only is this all here, but so much of it is still handmade.

The Fergana Valley is known as the cradle of Uzbek arts and crafts, and sharp knives, painted ceramics and handmade silks flow from here to markets around the country. This enormous depression between two mountain ranges offers lovely views and a generally pleasant climate. When comparing it, for example, to the desert climate of Khorezm, it is a breath of fresh air both literally and figuratively.

The fastest and most convenient way to get here from Tashkent is by Afrosiyob, the modern high-speed train, but a taxi is a cheaper and potentially more interesting option as this is how most of the locals travel.