Uzbekistan’s hiking routes
Uzbekistan is more than just history and architecture – its mountainous geography, rich biodiversity and unforgettably beautiful views make it a hiker’s dream, says Umida Qodirova, as she shares some exciting day trips just outside Tashkent.
Photos by Marat Nadjibaev
Best for History:
Beldersay Petroglyphs
distance: 23km
elevation: 2450m
location: 80km northeast of Tashkent
Beldersay is a top spot for immersing yourself in nature with a unique natural point for each season. The Beldersay River Valley is replete with views of the surrounding hills and the Big Chimgan Mountain in the distance. This day hike to the top of the Beldersay Gorge offers a glimpse of a set of ancient petroglyphs – rock paintings believed to be etched by primitive hunters six to ten thousand years ago during the Stone Age. In some sources, these petroglyphs are called the “Kumbel” petroglyphs. Reaching them requires an eight-kilometre walk up a scenic ridge from the main Beldersay recreation area. The mountainous Beldersay River flows through the region, offering cool respite for hikers in summer.
Best Secret Place:
Marble River
distance: 2km, starting from Beldersay
elevation: 1830m
location: 70km Tashkent
This two-to-three-hour hike along the Marble River near Beldersay takes you to a number of baths with crystal-clear water. These are comprised of many real marble stone tubs and hot springs that are very inviting to hikers after a hot, tiring day on the trail. The river banks here are also full of fossilised shells that have well-preserved shapes, indicating the presence of an ancient ocean here. Millions of years ago, the giant Tethys Ocean drove its waves over this route. The climb to the road is quite steep in places, but you are rewarded with several picturesque waterfalls.
Best for Adventurers:
Big Chimgan Mountains
distance: 15km, starting from Chimgan
elevation: 3305m
location: 80km northeast of Tashkent
For a longer hike, this two-day trek starts with dizzying views that are dominated by the peaks of Ugam-Chatkal National Park. These comprise the country’s most beautiful mountains and are among the highest points in Uzbekistan. Some of the peaks feature snowfields that do not melt year-round. It’s worth noting that there are a few complicated logistics for hikers to consider before setting out. This is a technical trek that requires an experienced guide. Reaching the highest peak is a serious climb that can be dangerous due to rocky areas, but there is a triangulation sign located lower down, at an elevation of 3275m, which is easier to reach. As a rule, this sign marks the end-point of the tourist and climbing routes for all but the most experienced back-country mountaineers. But the views even from this vantage are utterly spectacular.
