Tashkent to Fergana: train, car or plane

Fergana is the regional capital of the southern Fergana Valley, a green, densely populated basin surrounded by mountains, about 320 km east of Tashkent by road. Next to it lies Margilan, the city of silk, and nearby the ceramic town of Rishtan. To get there from Tashkent you must cross the Kurama mountains, by tunnel or by pass.

Since 2016, trains have run from Tashkent into the valley through the Kamchik tunnel, about 19 km long, one of the longest in Central Asia. Before that, trains had to pass through Tajikistan. Passenger trains now run from Tashkent to Kokand, Margilan, Fergana, Namangan and Andijan.

The journey to Fergana or Margilan takes around 5 hours; to Kokand about 4 hours; to Andijan about 5–6 hours. Trains are comfortable and air-conditioned, and are the most reliable option in winter, when the mountain road can be affected by snow.

Tickets go on sale about 45 days in advance; you need your passport. Our train ticket service can help, and our guide to trains in Uzbekistan explains classes and booking.

The road from Tashkent climbs through the Akhangaran valley and over the Kamchik pass, at around 2,270 metres, with views of snowy peaks, then descends into the valley near Pap and Kokand. It is one of the most scenic drives in Uzbekistan. The journey to Fergana takes about 5 hours; to Kokand about 4 hours.

There are police checkpoints on the pass, where you need to show your passport. In winter, snow and ice can slow traffic or close the road for short periods.

A private car with driver lets you stop for photos and visit Kokand or Rishtan on the way. Shared taxis leave from Tashkent stands when full. Our transfer service offers cars, SUVs and minivans.

Domestic flights connect Tashkent with Fergana, as well as Namangan and Andijan, in about 1 hour. Fergana airport is close to the city. Flying is useful if you are short of time, but the train and road are popular for their scenery. Check current schedules, as frequencies change.

In Tashkent, trains to the valley usually leave from the Tashkent Central station; check your ticket and arrive 30 minutes early for security checks. In the valley, stations in Fergana, Margilan and Kokand are short taxi rides from the town centres. Many travellers base themselves in Fergana or Margilan and make day trips to Rishtan, Kokand and Andijan.

• Most comfortable and reliable: the train, especially in winter.
• Scenery and flexibility: a car with driver over the Kamchik pass.
• Short on time: fly.

A good plan is to take the train one way and drive the other, so you see the mountains and still enjoy a comfortable trip. For a full route around the valley, see our Fergana Valley itinerary and how to get to the Fergana Valley. For the weather by season, see Fergana Valley weather.

• Carry your passport at all times: you need it on the train and at the pass checkpoints.
• The valley is more conservative than Tashkent: dress modestly.
• Spring and autumn are the best seasons; in summer, the valley is hot but full of fruit.
• Leave space in your luggage for silk from Margilan and ceramics from Rishtan.
• If you drive, stop at the top of the Kamchik pass for the view, but follow the instructions of the police at the checkpoints.