KHOKAN, KOKAN, or FERGHANA, a khanat of Independent Turkistan, Central Asia, between N. Lat. 40. and 45., and E. Long. 67. and 75.; bounded N. by the Kirghiz Steppe, E. and S.E. by Chinese Turkistan, S. by Bokhara and the tableland of Pamere, and W. by the Kara-kalpak territory. It is for the most part mountainous, comprising part of that lofty region which forms the W. wall of the great plateau of E. Asia. The principal river is the Jaxartes or Syr, which flows at first westward, and afterwards northward, through the territory, dividing it into two nearly equal parts. The plains and valleys near the Jaxartes, or its tributary streams, are generally rich and fertile, while in other parts, the land is comparatively arid and sterile. Khokan is more of a pastoral than an agricultural territory, although there are many cultivated spots scattered over its surface. One of the chief productions of the country is silk, for which it has long been famous. Cotton is another of its staple productions. Corn, and the various fruits of Europe, especially grapes and melons, are grown. The hills are covered with pine, poplar, almond, walnut, pistachio, and other trees. Large flocks of sheep are pastured here, and wool constitutes an important article of export. The climate is one of extremes; in summer, heat is great and parching, and little rain falls till towards the end of harvest, while the winter is very severe, though there is not much snow. The mineral products are coal, iron, copper, jasper, lapis-lazuli, &c. The chief manufactures are silk and cotton stuffs. The inhabitants are mostly Uzbeks, who are shepherds, and a few Tanjiks, who live in villages, and are described as a stout, fair, and high-complexioned people; quiet and hospitable; and fond of the chase. There are also several wandering tribes of Kirghiz.