Happy TravellerWelcome to Bekobod, a district-level city located in the Tashkent Region of eastern Uzbekistan. This charming city lies along both banks of the Syr Darya River, near Uzbekistan’s border with Tajikistan. Bekobod originally arose in connection with a cement plant and received the status of a city in 1945. Until 1964, the city was known as Begovat. Bekobod underwent rapid industrialization during the Soviet era and has retained some of its industrial importance. Today, it is home to a large steel mill, a cement factory, a brick factory, a meat-packing plant, a cotton plant, and many small and medium enterprises. The Farkhad Dam and Farkhad Hydroelectric Plant lie just upstream from the city, providing a major source of electricity and irrigation water for Uzbekistan.
Bekobod’s history is closely tied to its industrial development. In 1942-44, a steel plant was constructed in the town, and in 1943-48, the Farkhad Dam and Farkhad Hydroelectric Plant were built nearby. The latter is a major source of electricity and irrigation water for Uzbekistan. Bekobod received city status in 1945 and was known as Begovat until 1964.
Bekobod’s geography is characterized by the Syr Darya River and the mountains to the northeast and southeast of the city. By road, it is 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Tashkent. The city has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with continental influences, with cold winters and hot summers. The average June-July temperature is 28-30 °C (82-86 °F), and sometimes it reaches 40 °C (104 °F). The mean temperature in January is -2 – -3 °C (28-27 °F).
Bekobod is a diverse city with a population of 96,900 as of 2021. Representatives of many ethnic groups can be found in the city, with Uzbeks being the largest ethnic group.
Education is an important aspect of life in Bekobod. The city is home to a medical institute and a vocational school, as well as 17 secondary schools, two music schools, and one sports school.
Whether you’re interested in exploring Bekobod’s industrial heritage, enjoying the natural beauty of the Syr Darya River and surrounding mountains, or experiencing the city’s diverse culture and cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming Uzbek city. Come visit Bekobod and discover the many treasures of this hidden gem in eastern Uzbekistan!
