Nanay village, Charvak

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Nanay village in Pskem Valley

Nanay village, Charvak

Nestled at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the village of Nanaï graces the left bank of the Pskem River in the Bostanlyk district of Tashkent Region. Home to approximately 4,000 residents, Nanaï is just a two-hour drive from Tashkent, making it a convenient retreat for those seeking an escape from city life.

The climate in this region is characteristic of foothill areas, with summer temperatures soaring to +40°C and winter plunging to a chilly -20°C, accompanied by snowfall. However, the proximity of the Charvak Reservoir significantly humidifies the air, tempering the summer heat. Rainfall is common during the spring and autumn months, adding to the lushness of the landscape.

Interestingly, Uzbekistan boasts two villages named Nanaï — one in Namangan and the other in Tashkent. According to local legend, a group of residents from the Namangan Nanaï fell into conflict with their neighbors and were compelled to leave their homeland. After wandering through the mountains, they discovered a fertile valley along the Pskem River and established a new settlement, retaining the name Nanaï out of nostalgia for their origins.

Yet, the residents of Pskem Nanaï offer a contrasting narrative. They claim that their village has existed since the era of Alexander the Great, originally serving as a fortified outpost for the king’s army. Over time, it evolved into a caravanserai and eventually blossomed into a settlement. The so-called “great migration” of the Nanaï people occurred only 400 years ago, leading to the establishment of their relatives in Saryagach, Gazalkent, and Fergana, while only 400 individuals remained in Nanaï at that time.

The majority of Nanaï’s population are ethnic Tajiks, leading to various interpretations of the village’s name. One theory suggests that it derives from the Tajik word “nona,” meaning “pure and beautiful,” referring to a goddess of fertility. Another interpretation links it to “nana,” a medicinal herb that healed the village’s first settlers. A third explanation posits that “Nanaï” evolved from “Non hay,” which translates to “there is bread,” an expression of relief after the first harvest of wheat in their new home, as shared by one of the villagers.

Nanaï serves as a pivotal point in the Pskem Valley, with all roads and landmarks radiating from the village’s bridge. Settlements above the Nanaï Bridge include Mullaali, Ispay, and Kaptarkumush, while on the right bank lie Karabulak, Palvanik, and others. The inhabitants of these mountain villages engage in agriculture, horticulture, livestock farming, and beekeeping.

The name Nanaï has various interpretations: one version connects it to the Tajik word “nona,” referring to a goddess of fertility. Another links it to “nana,” a medicinal herb that healed the first settlers. A third theory suggests it transformed from “Non hay,” an expression of relief after the initial wheat harvest. The villagers primarily engage in agriculture, livestock breeding, small trade, beekeeping, handicrafts, and providing private tourism services.

Beekeeping thrives in Nanaï, with local honey regarded as the finest, purest, and healthiest product. Visitors from various regions of Uzbekistan, as well as international tourists staying in nearby tourist areas, flock to sample this exquisite honey. The local handicrafts are rich and diverse, with traditional embroidery of national headdresses—tubeteikas—being particularly noteworthy.

Along the village streets, as in days of old, water from irrigation canals flows briskly. Previously, this water fed into the Pskem River, but now it flows into the Charvak Reservoir. In winter, the reservoir’s water level drops, allowing streams to flow back into the Pskem, only to replenish the reservoir again.

While Nanaï lacks a beach in the conventional sense, a single small cove serves as the only swimming spot for both locals and visitors in Charvak. Tourism in the village is characterized by “topchan tourism,” where accommodations and overnight stays are provided. Excursions to numerous historical sites and natural attractions are organized for visitors.

In the western part of Nanaï lies a large grotto, measuring 30 meters wide, 15 meters deep, and 20 meters high. Inside, a small pond reflects the beauty of the surroundings. The grotto is washed by the waters of the Charvak Reservoir. Historically, it housed a shrine with the grave of an unknown saint, “Ghoibata,” believed to be one of the villagers who fell victim to Arab conquerors during the violent Islamization of Central Asia.

One of Nanaï’s two cemeteries, “Ibrahimata,” is home to a mulberry tree planted by Khoja Akhror, a legendary figure who is said to have also planted the famous chinar trees in Khojikent, which have stood for centuries. About a decade ago, a descendant of Khoja Akhror, who was blind, visited Nanaï, wishing to touch the tree planted by his ancestor. Accompanied by curious locals and local authorities, he wandered through the cemetery until, by touch, he finally identified the very tree. Truly, the wonders of Allah are remarkable! What sighted individuals may overlook, the Almighty grants the blind in a profound way.

The slopes of the Pskem Ridge above Nanaï are adorned with alpine meadows, apple orchards, and walnut groves. The Pskem River forms at the confluence of two rivers—Maidantala and Oigainga—located about seventy kilometers from Nanaï. A mere kilometer and a half away lies the stunning waterfall on the Aksarsai River, a popular pilgrimage site for tourists.

This area is known for gastronomic tourism, with traditional pavilions (ayvans) set up near the waterfall. These facilities cater to discerning visitors, primarily from the capital, providing a kitchen for local residents, thus creating job opportunities. Meanwhile, the runoff from these activities flows back into the river.

Not far from Nanaï, on the left bank of the Kuruksai stream, stands the famous “stone mushroom”—a colossal rock formation that rises 5 meters high and spans 2 meters wide. The diameter of the “mushroom’s” stem tapers to 1.5 meters at the top, while the cap reaches an impressive 3.5 to 4 meters across.

In summary, we invite you to visit the village of Nanaï and discover its unique charms. Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, or the warmth of its community, Nanaï promises an experience that will linger in your memory long after you leave.

Coordinates: 41°59′40″ N, 70°38′02″ E
Location: Tashkent Region, Bostanlyk District, Village of Nanaï

Come and immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of Nanaï! 🌄😊

Chimgan Mountains & Charvak Lake

From$40
6-8 hours

Driving through scenic mountain roads
Cable car ride to Kumbel Ridge
Panoramic views of Big Chimgan
Horseback riding in mountain gorge
Lunch at a local restaurant

Escape the city for a day with our Chimgan Mountains & Charvak Lake tour. Enjoy scenic views, ride a cable car to Kumbel Ridge, explore Big Chimgan’s gorge, and relax by Charvak Lake's serene shores. Adventure and relaxation await!
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