Fergana Valley weather by month

The Fergana Valley is a large basin enclosed by the Tian Shan to the north and east and the Pamir-Alay to the south. The Uzbek part, including Kokand, Margilan, Fergana, Namangan and Andijan, lies at roughly 400–600 metres above sea level, slightly higher than Tashkent. The mountains protect the valley from cold northern winds and hold the rain and snow that feed the rivers and irrigation canals, making it the greenest and most fertile part of Uzbekistan.

The figures below are approximate long-term averages for the city of Fergana; Kokand in the west is a little drier and hotter, Andijan in the east a little wetter.

Spring is the valley at its most beautiful. In March, almond, apricot and cherry trees blossom; it is also the wettest time of year, with rain on several days a week. April brings green fields, mulberry leaves for the silkworms and warm days. May is excellent: warm and sunny, with the first fruit in the markets. In Margilan, spring is the season when the silkworms are raised, and the Yodgorlik silk factory shows the whole process.

Summers are hot, with afternoon temperatures in the mid-30s and occasionally near 40 °C, but the many trees and canals make the heat a little easier than in the desert cities. This is the season of fruit: cherries and apricots in June, peaches, melons and grapes in July and August. Bazaars such as Kumtepa overflow with produce. Sightsee in the morning and evening and rest at midday.

September and October are lovely: warm, sunny days, cooler nights and the harvest of grapes, pomegranates and cotton. Leaves turn gold along the canals in late October. November becomes cool and damp, with the first frosts and more rain.

Winters are cold, with temperatures around or below freezing at night and grey days, sometimes with fog. Snow falls occasionally in the valley and more heavily in the surrounding mountains. The Kamchik pass, on the road from Tashkent, can be affected by snow and ice, and may be closed for short periods; the train through the Kamchik tunnel is then the most reliable way to reach the valley. Winter is quiet for tourism, but the craft workshops of Rishtan and Margilan work all year.

The best months are April–May and September–October, combining comfortable temperatures, clear views over the Kamchik pass and plenty of fruit. June is good if you do not mind heat, and is the peak of the fruit season. Winter trips are possible, but prepare for cold weather and check the pass.

The valley’s climate is close to that of Tashkent, so it fits well with a trip to the capital at any time of year. See our Fergana Valley itinerary and how to get to the Fergana Valley.

Spring: layers, a light waterproof jacket or umbrella, and comfortable shoes that can cope with mud.

Summer: light, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees (the valley is more conservative than Tashkent), a hat and sunscreen.

Autumn: light clothes for the day and a sweater or jacket for the evening.

Winter: a warm coat, hat and gloves.

Women may want a scarf for mosques such as the Juma mosque in Kokand. Leave space in your luggage for silk and ceramics, and try the region’s dishes described in our Fergana Valley food guide.