Ugam-Chatkal National Park, Uzbekistan

Essential Information

Ugam-Chatkal National Park, located in the western part of the Tien Shan mountains, is one of Uzbekistan’s most significant protected areas. Spanning approximately 1,500 square kilometers, this park offers a breathtaking combination of lush forests, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear rivers. Known for its rich biodiversity and adventure opportunities, it’s a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The park lies in the Tashkent region, making it easily accessible from Tashkent city.

Location: Western Tien Shan, about 60 km from Tashkent
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) for comfortable temperatures
Entry Fee: Varies by section, often requiring a permit for special areas
Weather: Mild summers and cold winters with potential snowfall in higher elevations

Interesting Facts About Ugam-Chatkal National Park

Rich Biodiversity: The park is home to a variety of species, including the snow leopard, lynx, and wild boar. You may also spot more than 150 species of birds like the Golden Eagle.
Incredible Scenery: Known for its alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and forests of juniper and oak. The park offers dramatic views, especially from Chimgan Peak.
Historical Significance: The park is named after the Ugam and Chatkal mountain ranges, both of which are significant geographical landmarks in the region.
Ideal for Hiking: With numerous trails and varied terrain, it’s a hiker’s paradise for those looking to explore Uzbekistan’s mountainous wilderness.

How to Get to Ugam-Chatkal National Park

From Tashkent

By Car: The most common way to get to the park is by private car or taxi. It’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive (about 60 km) from Tashkent. The road is generally in good condition, but driving conditions can vary based on the season.
By Bus: You can take a bus or shared taxi from Tashkent to the nearby town of Chimgan or Beldersay (within the park’s vicinity). From there, taxis or local transportation can take you to specific areas inside the park.

By Air:

The nearest major airport is Tashkent International Airport. From there, a short drive will take you to the park.

Best Things to Do in Ugam-Chatkal National Park

1. Hiking and Trekking

Ugam-Chatkal offers some of the best hiking trails in Uzbekistan. The park features routes for all levels, from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging, multi-day treks. Popular routes include:

Chimgan Peak: One of the most famous peaks in the park with panoramic views.
Beldersay Gorge: A picturesque area with waterfalls, river crossings, and dense forests.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding in Winter

The park’s Beldersay Ski Resort is one of Uzbekistan’s most popular ski resorts. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, you’ll enjoy the well-maintained slopes and winter activities such as:

Downhill skiing
Snowboarding
Sledding for families and children

3. Wildlife Watching

The park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Apart from spotting the snow leopard, visitors may encounter:

Wild boar and mountain goats.
Golden eagles and partridges.
Rare plants like the Turkestan onion.

4. Chimgan Peak

For mountain climbers and trekkers, summiting Chimgan Peak (2,100 meters) offers some of the best views in the park. You’ll get a panoramic vista of the Tien Shan mountains, with snow-capped peaks in the distance.

5. Relax by the Lakes

The park has several mountain lakes, such as Charvak Reservoir, which is perfect for a picnic or a peaceful boat ride. The Charvak Lake, in particular, is a great spot for fishing and watersports.

Best Accommodation in Ugam-Chatkal National Park

Luxury Accommodation

Mirza Davlat Beldersay Resort: This luxury resort offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Perfect for relaxation after a day of outdoor activities.
Chimgan Hotel: Located near the Chimgan Peak, it provides modern amenities and easy access to hiking trails.

Mid-Range Accommodation

Beldersay Hotel: A charming, mid-range hotel that caters to tourists visiting the park, with a convenient location for exploring both the mountains and the lakes.
Shumkar Guesthouse: Offers budget-friendly lodging in a picturesque environment, ideal for families or nature lovers.

Budget Accommodation

Local Guesthouses in Chimgan: There are several family-run guesthouses offering affordable prices, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Good Attractions Around Ugam-Chatkal National Park

Charvak Reservoir: This man-made lake is popular for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water. The viewpoints around the lake provide spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Beldersay Ski Resort: During winter, this resort becomes a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, it’s a great spot for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Getting Around in Ugam-Chatkal National Park

Private car or taxi is the easiest way to explore different parts of the park. It’s recommended to hire a local guide for navigating the park and ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems.
Public transportation within the park is limited, so renting a car or using local taxis is essential for flexibility.
Hiking is the best way to experience the park’s natural beauty, and well-marked trails make it easy to get around on foot.

Day Trips from Ugam-Chatkal National Park

1. Tashkent City (60 km)

Explore Uzbekistan’s capital with its historical sites, vibrant bazaars, and modern cafes.
Visit the Khast Imam Complex, the Chorsu Bazaar, and the Tashkent Metro.

2. Khodjikent Village (20 km)

This village offers a quieter escape, where visitors can explore local culture, sample traditional foods, and admire stunning views of the Chatkal mountains.

Practical Tips for Visiting Ugam-Chatkal National Park

Bring Suitable Gear: Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or just exploring, sturdy footwear, a warm jacket, and sunscreen are essentials, as temperatures can fluctuate.
Pack Snacks and Water: While there are cafes in the park, it’s wise to carry your own supplies for longer treks.
Respect Nature: Leave no trace and be mindful of the environment. Don’t disturb the local wildlife, and avoid picking plants.
Consider Hiring a Guide: Hiring a local guide can enrich your experience and help you discover hidden spots.
Weather Conditions: Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains, so be prepared for rain, snow, or sunny conditions all in one day.

Conclusion

Ugam-Chatkal National Park is one of Uzbekistan’s most beautiful natural areas, offering a wide range of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Whether you’re trekking through alpine meadows, skiing in winter, or exploring the Charvak Reservoir, the park offers a perfect escape from the bustle of urban life. With rich wildlife, spectacular landscapes, and plenty of activities, it’s a destination that should be on any nature lover’s bucket list.