Panjob Gorge

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Panjob Gorge

The breathtakingly beautiful Panjob Gorge is nestled in the foothills of the Kugitangtau Range, located in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan, approximately 125 kilometers northwest of Termez. Here, within the mountainous Karyshotu massif, the small Gazak River has carved its way through limestone, gypsum, and rock salt, creating a magnificent and picturesque canyon with vertical cliffs soaring over 200 meters high. In some places, the width of the gorge narrows to less than two meters.

The only access to the gorge is through the colossal 300-meter rocky gates of Panjob, leading further into the mountain village of Yukary-Panjob.

A well-marked trail to the gorge begins above the village, starting from a small spring and continuing upward along the Gazak River. Close to the trail, in a small grotto, lies the mausoleum of the saint—Khoja Chackakan. The mausoleum is entirely adorned with the horns of mountain goats. This site is still revered by the local residents, who maintain its cleanliness; below the mausoleum, several hearths and a chest with utensils for pilgrims can be found. A little higher up the path is a spring, also named after Khoja Chackakan. We continue our ascent along the Gazak River, which is fed by the underground waters of the meteorite lake Kanbeshbulak. As the water flows through the rock salt massif, it becomes bitterly salty while remaining crystal clear.

The most stunning section of the gorge is a 30-meter stretch along the orographically right bank of the canyon. Here, water bursts forth from a rock covered in vibrant green moss, cascading in a curtain or as individual streams, creating countless rainbows in the sunlight. Typically, tourists reach the so-called “gates,” a spot where an enormous boulder is wedged between the walls. Beyond this point, a five-meter step blocks the path, making it challenging to ascend without climbing gear.

Termez from Tashkent (3 days)

From$430
3 Days / 2 Nights

See Zurmala Buddha’s stupa
Explore Kirk Kiz Fortress
Tour Kara-Tepe archaeological site
Admire Sangardak Waterfall
Explore Derbent Canyon cliffs

Discover the ancient city of Termez on this three-day tour from Tashkent. Explore Buddhist and Islamic sites, including Kokildor-Ota Khanaka and Sangardak Waterfall, and visit the scenic Boysun village and Derbent Canyon. Immerse yourself in Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage.
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