Osh – The Ancient Heart of the Fergana Valley

Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and one of the oldest settlements in Central Asia, is often called the “Southern Capital” of the country. With a history stretching back over 3,000 years, it has been a key Silk Road trading hub, connecting cultures, goods, and ideas from China, India, Persia, and beyond.

The city’s most iconic landmark is Sulayman-Too Sacred Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising dramatically from the center of Osh, this mountain has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. It is said that Prophet Sulayman (Solomon) prayed here, and even today, locals and visitors climb its trails to visit ancient caves, petroglyphs, and small shrines while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

A visit to Osh wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Osh Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in the region. Here, you can feel the city’s multicultural spirit, with Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Tajik, and other ethnic groups trading side by side. The bazaar bursts with colorful spices, dried fruits, silks, handmade carpets, and freshly baked samsa, offering a feast for all senses.

Osh also boasts fascinating historical and cultural sites, including the Osh Regional Museum of History and Archaeology, where you can learn about the city’s Silk Road heritage and archaeological finds. The Alymbek Datka Park and Lenin Statue remind visitors of the Soviet era, which still leaves its mark on the city’s architecture and atmosphere.

Surrounded by fertile valleys and framed by the Alay Mountains, Osh is also a starting point for travelers heading toward Alay Valley and Pamir Highway adventures. This makes it both a cultural gem and a natural gateway for trekkers, mountaineers, and explorers.

Osh is more than just a historical city — it’s a living crossroad of civilizations, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, and where every street corner tells a story.