Namangan

Good to know

1. 1Namangan lies in the Fergana Valley, a fertile basin shared by Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, which has been farmed and traded across for many centuries.
2. 2The city is one of the larger in Uzbekistan and the centre of a region known for its orchards, cotton and craftwork.
3. 3The nearby town of Chust is known across the country for its knives and for the black-and-white skullcap called the doppi.
4. 4The Mullo Kyrgyz Madrasa, built in the 19th century, is one of the city's best-known historic buildings.
5. 5Uzbek is the main language, and Russian is still widely understood, especially among older people and in shops and markets.
6. 6Namangan is known for its bread, samsa and plov, and the valley's fruit, such as apricots, melons and grapes, is some of the best in the country.

Tips for a first visit

• Carry some cash in local soum, because many bazaar stalls, small cafes and taxis do not take cards.
• Walk through a bazaar in the morning, when the bread, dried fruit and fresh produce are at their best, and accept a taste if a seller offers one.
• Dress modestly when visiting mosques and madrasas, with shoulders and knees covered, and take your shoes off where others do.
• Greet people with a handshake or a hand placed over the heart, and expect to be offered tea when you are a guest.
• Learn a few words of Uzbek or Russian, such as hello and thank you. They make a real difference outside the main tourist areas.
• Taxis are the easiest way to get around the city, so agree the fare before you set off or use a ride-hailing app if you have one.

When to go

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to go, with mild weather and, in autumn, plenty of fruit at the markets. Summers are hot and dry, so plan your walking for early morning and evening. Winters are cold, sometimes with frost and snow, and the city is quieter.

From the airport

Namangan has its own airport a short distance from the city, and a taxi into the centre usually takes around twenty minutes or less. Taxis are the simplest option, and local buses and minibuses also run into town if you are travelling light and are happy to ask for directions.