The Andijan Region of Uzbekistan is a land of unparalleled beauty and rich history. It is the birthplace of Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, the last ruler of the Timurid dynasty, and many other illustrious figures. In the eastern part of the region, nestled along the banks of the Kara Darya River, lies the small yet captivating town of Khanabad—a true gem deserving of the title “Eastern Health Resort of Uzbekistan.”
Hanabad, a picturesque and verdant town, was originally established as a settlement along one of the branches of the Great Silk Road. Though modest in size—stretching just 3 km from north to south and nearly 4 km from east to west—it is a place of immense charm. Located close to the border with Kyrgyzstan, Hanabad is approximately 70 km from the regional center of Andijan, connected by highways that serve both private and public transport.
Historians suggest that the village that once stood on the site of Hanabad emerged during the heyday of the Silk Road, possibly as early as the early medieval or even ancient periods. While no concrete evidence or architectural remnants from that era remain, it is widely believed that the Fergana Valley was a crucial route for caravans traveling east to west and vice versa. These caravans required regular rest stops, leading to the establishment of settlements that served as waypoints for travelers and their animals. However, the true history of Hanabad as a town begins in the mid-20th century, when it was developed alongside the construction of the Andijan Reservoir, a monumental hydro-engineering project that remains unique not only in Uzbekistan but across Central Asia.
The need for the reservoir arose with the expansion of agriculture in the region, particularly the cultivation of cotton, which required extensive irrigation. Additionally, the growth of certain industries demanded a reliable supply of fresh water. The Kara Darya River, with its unpredictable flow and changing course, could not meet these needs. To address this, the government embarked on the ambitious project of building the reservoir, which required a significant workforce. Thus, Hanabad was founded as a hub to attract people from within and beyond the region, fostering agricultural and industrial development.
Explore Kokand’s Khudoyar-Khan Palace
Visit Rishtan’s ceramic workshop
Discover Margilan’s silk production
Stroll through traditional markets
Explore Kumtepa Bazaar