The Tashkent Region is an oasis at the foot of the Tian Shan. The Western Tian Shan, with its mountain ranges, ridges and deep valleys, is a defining natural landscape. Ugam-Chatkal National Park covers 574,600 hectares in the mountainous districts of Bostonlik, Parkent and Okhangaron. Its size encompasses a wide variety of landscapes and natural features.
Mountain Landscapes and Biodiversity
The park is home to 1,787 plant species, 66 of which are listed in Uzbekistan’s Red Book. Its 230 animal species include the snow leopard, Tian Shan brown bear, Menzbier’s marmot and Turkestan lynx, as well as other nationally or internationally listed species. These figures give an impression of the protected area’s diversity, but do not mean that visitors can expect to see any particular animal or plant on an outing.
The natural attractions also vary considerably. Ecotourism destinations in the park include the Paltov Waterfalls, the Obirahmat Cave and the Khodjakent Petroglyph. The lakes Urunchoch, Bodak and Ikhnoch are also among them. The rivers Pskem, Chatkal, Ugam and Koksu flow through the park’s mountain valleys and gorges. Those interested in hiking can find trails in Ugam-Chatkal that pass through valleys, by waterfalls and lakes, and across rocky landscapes and protected natural areas.
At Paltau, the waterfall reaches a height of 38 meters. The route passes the Obi-Rakhmat Cave, where a Paleolithic site was discovered. Chimgan, in turn, is associated with waterfalls, lakes, narrow gorges and mountain passes; birch and walnut groves also characterize its vegetation. These natural features can be explored in different ways: as expansive mountain scenery, along a watercourse or through a cave that offers a glimpse into the very early history of humankind.
Excursions Among Mountains and Water
Activities also vary by location and season. In winter, the region offers snowboarding, skiing, quad biking, snowmobiling and scenic cable-car rides in Chimgan, Amirsoy and Beldersay. Amirsoy is in Bostanliq District, 65 kilometers from Tashkent. The access route follows the Tashkent–Gazalkent road, then continues via Galvasay toward Chimgan and Beldersay; taxis are also available from Gazalkent.
Amirsoy has gondola and chair lifts, five magic carpets and eleven slopes, as well as ski lessons with instructors and equipment rental. Other offerings include tubing, snowmobile and quad rides, alpine chalets, a rope park, hammam and spa facilities, and restaurants. The Charvak recreation area offers a different focus: its equipped beaches have activities such as scooters, catamarans, banana boats and paragliding. The area can be reached from the capital by taxi, train or bus.
The Kumushkon recreation center is in the Parkentsoy Gorge, three kilometers from the village of Qirg‘iz, at the foot of the Chatkal Range. It has two outdoor pools and a teahouse serving local cuisine. The complex covers 60 hectares and can accommodate about 450 people; its facilities include summer and winter buildings, a kitchen, a gym and cottages. In the So‘qoq area, natural landmarks such as Singing Cave and Odamtosh, along with waterfalls, emerald-green lakes and clear rivers, take center stage.
Parkent: Winemaking, Cuisine and Traditions
Parkent District lies at the foot of the Western Tian Shan and is considered a center of viticulture and quality wine production. Fertile land and horticultural traditions form the backdrop to this reputation. Visitors can also try dishes prepared with produce from local farms. Regional foods thus add another perspective on the landscape and culture, without requiring a set excursion itinerary.
The seasonal Somsa Sayli gastronomic festival in Parkent was announced as an annual event starting in 2024; check the current dates before traveling. Festival and competition names in the region include Iloq, Uzumchilik va vino, So‘qoq taomlari, Pahlavon Farhod, Impuls and Chimyon sadosi. Programs may change over time. More than 30 tourist routes have been developed in the region, and more than 20 cultural and entertainment events are held regularly.
Parkent also combines newer cultural projects with traditional forms of expression. The completed Chashma Ethno Village was reported as operational in July 2025; check the current visiting arrangements before you go. At its opening, the program included folk-art demonstrations, traditional clothing and art exhibitions.
Archaeology and Pilgrimage Traditions
The region preserves archaeological remains and rock art from different eras: traces of Stone Age and Bronze Age settlements, ancient fortifications, burial mounds and rock carvings. Religious sites also reflect different historical layers. Construction of the Zangi-ota complex began during the time of Amir Temur; its madrasa and mosque were built in the 14th century. The complex also includes the Ambar-Bibi Mausoleum. Living pilgrimage traditions include sweeping around the mausoleum and walking clockwise around it.
The Hazrati Ali Buva architectural complex in Parkent was built in 2010. In local religious and wellness tradition, its sacred spring is described as healing. This combination of architectural history, pilgrimage practices and regional tradition offers a distinct way to experience the Tashkent Region, alongside its natural attractions and archaeology.
Discover more destinations: Tashkent, Chimgan, Bukhara, Surxondaryo Province, Ferghana Province, Navoiy Province, Khorezm, Navoiy Province
For the main travel overview: Uzbekistan.
