Khujand & The Ferghana Valley
Tajikistan's second largest city, Khujand lies at the mouth of the Ferghana Valley and has had a long and prosperous history. Thought to have been founded by Alexander the Great as his eastern outpost in Central Asia, Khujand was also an important stop on the ancient Silk Road. Today, this bustling city is home to the lively Panchshanbe Bazaar and the fascinating ruins of a once mighty fortress.
Prosperous Khujand sits close to the border with Uzbekistan, sharing the lush and fertile Ferghana Valley with its neighbour. This northern corner of Tajikistan is closed off from the rest of the country by the Zeravshan range, fostering close ties with the Uzbek cities of Samarkand and Bukhara. The fertile and abundant Valley has established Khujand as one of the most populous and wealthy parts of Tajikistan, with lively bazaars and green parks making the city a pleasant place to while away a few days. The crumbling remains of the Khujand fortress offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the Sughd region’s colourful history.