The Chimgan Range forms the mountainous hinterland of Tashkent, about a hundred kilometers to the northeast of the capital. Attached to the Chatkal massif, it peaks at 3,300 m in elevation and concentrates a large share of Uzbekistan's outdoor activities: skiing in winter, hiking or horseback riding in summer, climbing and paragliding in the shoulder seasons.

Why visit the Chimgan Range

The region offers a striking contrast with the oasis cities of the Silk Road. Here, the landscape is alpine: forests of firs and wild apple trees, meadows of roses and barberries, mountain rivers that locals call sai, and mountain lakes. The altitude ensures comfortable temperatures in summer (25 to 30 °C on average) and reliable snowfall from November to March.

Access from Tashkent remains straightforward, making Chimgan a day excursion or a stay of a few nights for those wanting to unwind between two cultural stops.

A history of leisure

The village of Chimgan, which gives its name to the massif, has existed for more than 400 years. The etymology of the place name remains uncertain: some scholars attribute it Chinese roots, while others read it as a translation close to "meadow" or "green valley, pasture abundant with water," directly referencing the vegetation of the highlands.

Leisure activity dates back to the late 19th century, under the Russian Empire. Russian military doctors, having become aware of the benefits of mountain air, established a sanatorium there. The region then became a recognized training ground for alpinists, and later acquired skiing infrastructure under the Soviet era, along with a large artificial lake intended to supply electricity to the Tashkent province: Charvak Lake.

What to see and do

Beldersoy and skiing

Beldersoy is the most popular resort in winter. Its ski lift, inherited from the Soviet era, serves the main slopes and allows you to gain height over the entire Greater Chimgan. The ski season runs from December to March, with activities ranging from alpine skiing to snowboarding, including sledding and off-piste freeriding for experienced practitioners.

Hiking and horseback riding

From late spring to early fall, several routes allow you to explore the valleys and ridges, on foot or on horseback. The trails pass through fir forests, run alongside waterfalls, and open onto mountain lakes. The accommodation bases, particularly in Beldersoy, organize outings ranging from half a day to several days.

Charvak Lake

This artificial lake, created in the Soviet era for hydroelectric production, has become the region's summer hub. Swimming, fishing, and paragliding from nearby heights are practiced here. Several modern hotel complexes line its shores and complement the offering of the older resorts.

Climbing and paragliding

Spring remains the preferred season for climbing and paragliding, when snow has melted from the slopes but temperatures remain cool. Helicopter excursions are also organized periodically by local operators.

When to go

Chimgan's climate is typically alpine, more rigorous than in the rest of the country. The first snows fall as early as November. Summer (June to September) offers the most comfortable conditions for hiking, with 25 to 30 °C during the day. Autumn is marked by frequent rain: it is advisable to check the weather before departing.

• December to March: skiing and winter sports. Avalanche caution at altitude.
• April to May: climbing, paragliding, first hikes. Risk of rockfalls after thawing.
• June to September: hiking and horseback riding, swimming at Charvak Lake.
• October-November: autumn colors, frequent rain.

Practical information

The main road serving the range is asphalt and passable by private car or taxi year-round. Occasional restrictions may occur in spring (rockfalls) and winter (avalanches). Plan for warm clothing in all seasons, as altitude causes temperatures to drop in the evening.

For a stay of several days, accommodation is concentrated around Beldersoy, the village of Chimgan, and the shores of Charvak Lake. Old Soviet resorts coexist with more modern complexes.

How to get there

• From Tashkent by car: approximately 100 km by well-maintained highway to Hojikent, then mountain road. Allow one to two hours depending on traffic.
• By train: Hojikent station is located about 40 km from the range, from which you must continue by taxi.
• By public bus: from Gazalkent, buses regularly serve the area, with a journey of approximately 50 minutes.
• By plane: Tashkent's international airport, about a hundred kilometers away, is the closest international entry point.

Nearby

Tashkent serves as a logical base before or after a stop at Chimgan: the capital concentrates museums, madrasas, and markets. Northeast of the range extends the Chatkal Valley, wilder and favored by experienced trekkers. For lovers of high mountain landscapes in Central Asia, the Altai region naturally extends the experience.

Frequently asked questions

Extend the experience

The Chimgan Range naturally integrates into a circuit in Uzbekistan, complementing the major cultural stops. To prepare your itinerary and combine mountains, the Silk Road, and oasis cities, consult our suggestions for travel in Uzbekistan.