Charvak Lake, often hailed as the Pearl of the Tian Shan Mountains, is a relatively recent addition to the landscape. The impressive rock-fill dam, standing at 168 meters, was constructed in 1970. The confluence of the Pskem, Kok-Su, and Chatkal mountain rivers filled the valley, creating the magnificent Charvak Reservoir. Its azure waters are a beacon, drawing visitors during the sweltering summer months.
The land beneath Charvak’s waters holds layers of history. Before the reservoir’s creation, villages thrived here, and the earth cradled ancient burial mounds and sites where primitive people once lived. Petroglyphs and other historical treasures dotted the landscape. However, the devastating earthquake of 1966 left Tashkent in ruins, and the USSR was desperate for cheap, ecological electricity. The decision to build the Charvak Hydropower Station was born out of necessity, despite the loss it would entail. Archaeologists and historians meticulously documented over 150 monuments in the area, preserving their memory through photographs and records. Now, four decades on, these cultural relics rest silently beneath mud and silt.
Today, the Charvak Reservoir is a mere 60 kilometers from Tashkent and stands as the region’s most beloved recreational spot. Its coastline stretches nearly 100 kilometers, with half of this expanse dedicated to leisure zones, boarding houses, and summer camps. Among these, the «Charvak Oromgokhi» complex is renowned for its comfortable amenities, offering sandy beaches, boating, and water scooter adventures. The villages of Yusupkhona and Brichmula provide breathtaking views of the Chimgan peaks, drawing tourists and locals alike.
A visit to the quaint village of Bogiston unveils a rich spiritual heritage, being the birthplace of Sheikh Khovendi at-Tahur (Shaykhantaur) and his relative Ubaydulla Akhror, a revered figure in Sufism. En route to the Charvak Dam, one can stop at a traditional «chaykhona» (café) and marvel at a 600-year-old Plane tree, under which mural paintings of primitive people have been discovered.
The journey from Tashkent to Charvak Reservoir is an adventure in itself, promising more than just a destination. Upon arrival, visitors can indulge in swimming, hiking, paragliding, or water scooter rides. But perhaps the simplest pleasures are the most profound—breathing in the fresh mountain air, savoring the purity of the water, and witnessing the unforgettable spectacle of sunrise and sunset over the mountains. Charvak is not just a lake; it’s a living tapestry of natural beauty, cultural depth, and historical intrigue.
Tours in Uzbekistan
