Tashkent: Discover the region’s nature and culture

The Tashkent Region stretches from the foothills of the Tien Shan to deeply carved mountain valleys. The region offers a variety of themes, without being limited to just one type of stay.

Mountain Landscapes and Nature Destinations

Ugam-Chatkal National Park covers 574,600 hectares in the mountainous districts of Bostonliq, Parkent and Okhangaron in the Tashkent Region. Its landscape in the western Tien Shan is characterised by mountain ranges, ridges and deep valleys. The park is home to 1,787 plant species, including 66 listed in Uzbekistan’s Red Book. Its 230 animal species include the snow leopard, Tien Shan brown bear, Menzbier’s marmot and Turkestan lynx; there are also other species listed nationally or internationally.

The park’s ecotourism destinations include the Paltov Waterfalls, Obirahmat Cave, the Khodjakent petroglyph and the lakes Urunchoch, Bodak and Ikhnoch. The Urungach Lakes are known for their jade-coloured water; the upper and lower lakes are about four kilometres apart. The Arashan system offers a different kind of landscape in the Akhangaran district: it comprises four high-altitude lakes at elevations of 2,774 to 3,365 metres. A nearby thermal spring reaches 36.7 degrees Celsius year-round. The So‘qoq area is also home to the Singing Cave, the Odamtosh natural monument, waterfalls, emerald-green lakes and clear rivers.

Hiking and Activities in Different Seasons

Hiking trails in Ugam-Chatkal pass through valleys, by waterfalls and lakes, and through rocky landscapes and protected natural areas. The route through Gulkam Gorge combines a mountain road with a footpath. The gorge becomes increasingly narrow; the route also includes a difficult river crossing with a strong current. This specific trail condition should be taken into account when planning.

Chimgan is known for its waterfalls, lakes, narrow gorges and rich vegetation, including birch and walnut groves. Winter activities in the region include snowboarding, skiing, quad biking, snowmobiling and cable-car rides in Chimgan, Amirsoy and Beldersay. Amirsoy is in Bostanliq district, 65 kilometres from Tashkent. One route is via Tashkent and Gazalkent, then through Galvasay towards Chimgan and Beldersay; taxis are also available from Gazalkent. Amirsoy offers gondola and chair lifts, five conveyor belts and eleven ski runs. There are also ski academy instructors, equipment rentals, tubing, and snowmobile and quad rides.

At the Charvak Reservoir, equipped beaches offer opportunities for scooter rides, catamaran trips, banana boat rides and paragliding. The recreation area can be reached from the capital by taxi, train or bus. For visitors weighing up different activity options, this makes for a clear distinction between winter sports in the mountains and water sports at Charvak.

Culture, History and Regional Cuisine

Historical and religious sites are also part of the region’s attractions. Construction of the Zangi-ota complex began during Amir Temur’s era; the madrasa and mosque were built in the 14th century. The complex also includes the Ambar-Bibi Mausoleum. Pilgrimage traditions practised there include sweeping around the mausoleum and walking around it clockwise.

The Hazrati Ali Buva architectural complex, built in 2010, is in Parkent. Its holy spring is considered healing in local religious and wellness traditions. Parkent is also known as a centre for grape growing and quality wine production; fertile land and horticultural traditions contribute to its character. In Uzbekistan, visitors can arrange vineyard tours to learn more about wine production and taste wine.

Parkent hosts the seasonal Somsa Sayli food festival, announced as an annual event from 2024. The programme includes performances by folk groups and artists from the region, as well as attractions for children; it may change from year to year. Check the current dates before travelling. The Chashma ethnic village in Parkent was completed and operational in July 2025. Its opening featured folk art performances, traditional clothing and art exhibitions. Check the current visitor arrangements before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Tashkent, Chimgan, Navoi Region, Bukhara, Andijan Province, Khorezm, Republic Of Karakalpakstan, Surxondaryo Region.

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