When one thinks of Uzbekistan, images of ancient Silk Road cities like Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent often come to mind. However, many travelers are surprised to learn that this country is also home to stunning mountain ranges. While Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are typically associated with towering peaks, Uzbekistan boasts its own majestic mountains, located just a short distance from its bustling cities. In fact, the Western Tian Shan mountains rise to heights of up to 4,500 meters, only about 70 kilometers from Tashkent.
The limited information available about Uzbekistan’s mountains may stem from the fact that traditional Uzbek leisure often revolves around enjoying scenic views and indulging in delicious food rather than trekking through rugged terrain. As a result, resources on mountain hiking are scarce, and you might find it challenging to locate detailed descriptions of hiking routes for independent exploration. While there are occasional announcements for guided tours by travel agencies, comprehensive information for solo adventurers is hard to come by. However, platforms like Wikiloc and Komoot offer some downloadable tracks that can provide insight into where to hike.
For those eager to explore, here are a few recommended routes and destinations that might pique your interest.
The mountains north of Tashkent consist of the Western Tian Shan range, which includes the Ugam, Pskem, and Chatkal ridges, all branches of the Talas Ala-Too range. A convenient base for hiking in the Chatkal range is the village of Chimgan. From here, you can easily reach the smaller peaks, such as Maly Chimgan, either by foot or a short drive. If you find yourself on the highway, don’t hesitate to hitch a ride; locals are usually more than willing to help out.
To get to Chimgan from Tashkent, you have a couple of options: take a two-hour electric train to Khodjikent for around 50 rubles, or hop on a minibus from Buyuk Ipak Yuli metro station to Gazalkent, which takes about an hour and costs about 90 rubles. From Gazalkent, you can catch a taxi or ask locals for assistance.
While the Chimgan area is well-known, other mountain spots can be harder to find but are worth exploring. Consider visiting Zaamin, Kumushkan, and Yangiyabad.
Zaamin is a modern resort located within the Zaamin Nature Reserve, featuring luxurious hotels and attractions such as a glass bridge over a gorge. Interestingly, there are even special flights on an L-410 aircraft from Tashkent to this resort. While it offers a beautiful setting, be prepared for higher prices.
Kumushkan is another developing resort located about 60 kilometers from Tashkent. However, it too has pricey accommodations and lacks well-maintained hiking trails.
Lastly, Yangiyabad offers a more budget-friendly option with a tourist base situated right in the mountains. Although it doesn’t have a website, you can make reservations by phone at +998931721492. Accommodation costs around $40-50 per person, including three meals a day. Some hiking routes can be found on Wikiloc. To reach Yangiyabad, take a minibus from Kuylyuk to the town of Angren, and then a taxi to the tourist base. It’s approximately 120 kilometers from Tashkent. Yangiyabad was established in the 1970s and has a unique history; it was built by Volga Germans and has a distinctly German aesthetic. Once home to 12,000 residents in the 1980s, the population has dwindled to around 500 today. The town even had a music school, now transformed into the Chaykovskiy hotel.
For a memorable adventure, consider visiting the Urrungach or Jade Lakes, named for their stunning water colors. These lakes are nestled in the Ugam range within the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. There are two lakes: the lower one sits at an elevation of 1,227 meters, while the upper lake was formed by a rockfall that created a natural dam. Both lakes boast breathtaking colors, but be aware that only the upper lake is visible in September since the lower lake dries up in summer.
Located about 160 kilometers from Tashkent, reaching these lakes can be a bit more challenging. The road to the village of Urrungach, the starting point for the hike, isn’t fully paved. Expect to navigate approximately 25 kilometers of gravel road, which can be slow-going without a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
You can arrange transportation through local tour agencies, which typically offer day trips to the lakes at reasonable prices. Alternatively, you might find private drivers on local classified sites like OLX. Some may use traditional vehicles, while others have 4x4s that can take you closer to the lower lake, which is about 2 kilometers from Urrungach along a rough road with a 130-meter elevation gain.
At the beginning of the trail to the lower lake (coordinates: 41.913726, 70.342901), you’ll often find Nivas ready to transport you those 2 kilometers. Prices can vary based on factors like the day of the week, number of passengers, and the driver’s willingness.
The trek from the lower lake to the upper lake is about 1.5 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 200 meters. Some tours even include a boat ride across to the other side. If you’re interested, you can negotiate this on-site.
The lakes are cold, with temperatures around 5 degrees Celsius, and in winter, they become a popular spot for ice skating. Be mindful that weekends can get crowded, so visiting during the week is advisable.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring your passports, as this area is close to the border with Kazakhstan, just a few kilometers away.
Uzbekistan’s mountains offer a wealth of adventure for those willing to venture off the beaten path. From the serene lakes to the rugged trails, the hidden beauty of this region is waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Uzbekistan’s stunning landscapes!
