Ugam Chatkal National Park: Uzbekistan's Hidden Natural Paradise

Axel Donovan

May 19, 2025

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Uzbekistan lies a natural treasure that remains largely undiscovered by international travelers. Ugam Chatkal National Park spans an impressive 668,350 hectares (1,651,500 acres) of breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountain peaks to lush valleys and crystal-clear rivers. Established in 1992 and Part of the park, including the Chatkal Biosphere Reserve, was inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Western Tien-Shan' in 2016, recognizing its outstanding biodiversity and conservation value, this magnificent park offers adventure seekers and nature lovers an authentic wilderness experience just a short drive from Tashkent.

Ugam Chatkal National Park

The Natural Wonder of Ugam Chatkal National Park

Ugam Chatkal National Park is the largest national park in Uzbekistan, covering the mountainous areas of Bostonliq, Parkent, and Ohangaron districts in the Tashkent Region. The park sits along the border with Kazakhstan, creating a transboundary protected area that includes Kazakhstan's Aksu-Zhabagly and Sairam-Ugam reserves.

The landscape is dominated by the majestic Western Tien-Shan mountains, with the Ugam Range running through the park and reaching elevations of up to 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The highest point in the park is Peak Adelunga in the Pskem Range, towering at an impressive 4,301 meters above sea level. Nearby stands another giant, Peak Beshtor, at 4,299 meters – both challenging even the most experienced climbers.

The park's diverse terrain includes:

Lush forested northern and eastern slopes
Sparsely wooded southern slopes
Open meadows and grasslands
Alpine zones with glaciers
Deep canyons and gorges
Crystal-clear mountain lakes
Fast-flowing rivers and streams

Rich Biodiversity

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ugam Chatkal National Park is its incredible biodiversity. The park is home to:

Over 1,000 plant species, including 70 types of trees
Rare and endemic flora, many with medicinal properties
Wild boars, mountain goats, and brown bears
Wolves, foxes, and rabbits
Diverse bird species
The endangered snow leopard (extremely rare sightings)

The Chatkal Biosphere Reserve within the park, which spans 47,945 hectares, was inscribed by UNESCO in 1978 and serves as a critical conservation area for this rich ecosystem.

Natural Wonder of Ugam Chatkal National Park

Climate and Seasons

Ugam Chatkal National Park experiences a continental climate with significant seasonal variations:

Season	Months	Temperature Range	Precipitation	Best For
Spring	April-May	10°C to 25°C	400-900mm	Wildflowers, hiking, photography
Summer	June-August	33.5°C to 42°C	Occasional rain	Hiking, camping, river activities
Autumn	September-October	5°C to 25°C	Moderate	Fall colors, hiking, clear views
Winter	November-March	-14.5°C to -32°C	Snow	Skiing, winter photography

The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring brings an explosion of colors with wildflowers, ornate poppy fields, desert candles, and world-famous tulips. Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking and camping, though temperatures can soar. Autumn provides stunning fall foliage, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing enthusiasts.

Attractions in Ugam Chatkal National Park

Must-Visit Attractions in Ugam Chatkal National Park

Urungach Lakes

Perhaps the most recommended destination within the park, Urungach Lakes consist of the Lower and Upper Urungach Lakes. The Lower Lake is easily accessible and popular with local families, while the Upper Lake requires a steep hike that rewards visitors with magnificent mountain views and a more secluded experience.

Chatkal Valley and Kulosya Waterfalls

The Chatkal Valley offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the park, leading to the beautiful Kulosya waterfalls. The cascading waters create a refreshing oasis during hot summer months.

Aksai Gorge Petroglyphs

History enthusiasts will appreciate the ancient rock art at Aksai Gorge, where petroglyphs dating back to 1,000-2,000 BCE depict riders, houses, and dogs. These remarkable artifacts provide a glimpse into the lives of the area's earliest inhabitants.

Chatkal River

Adventure seekers can experience thrilling rafting on the powerful Chatkal River, which runs for 217 km. The river features challenging rapids, waterfalls, and narrow canyons, making it a paradise for experienced rafters, especially during autumn months.

Tereksai Petroglyphs

Located within the Chatkal Biosphere Reserve, these ancient cave paintings offer another fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life in the region.

Activities for Every Adventurer

Ugam Chatkal National Park offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast:

Hiking and Trekking: Numerous trails of varying difficulty levels
Mountain Climbing: For experienced climbers seeking to summit the park's highest peaks
Wildlife Photography: Opportunities to capture the park's diverse fauna in their natural habitat
Bird Watching: Especially rewarding during migration seasons
Rafting: Challenging white-water experiences on the Chatkal River
Camping: Immerse yourself in nature with overnight stays
Skiing: Winter sports in designated areas during snow season
Foraging: Wild berries, apples, pears, walnuts, and pistachios (with proper guidance)
Canyoneering: Exploring the park's dramatic gorges
Rock Climbing: Natural rock formations provide excellent climbing opportunities

Practical Tips for Visitors

Getting There

Ugam Chatkal National Park is conveniently located just over an hour's drive from Tashkent, making it an accessible day trip or weekend getaway from Uzbekistan's capital. While public transportation options are limited, taxis and tour operators in Tashkent can arrange transportation to the park.

What to Bring

Sturdy hiking boots
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Plenty of drinking water
Picnic supplies (limited facilities within the park)
Basic first aid kit
Camera for capturing the stunning landscapes
Valid passport for registration at entrance gates

Important Considerations

There is minimal tourist infrastructure within the park, so come prepared
Bring sufficient water and food for your planned activities
Some areas require permits or guides – check requirements before visiting
Cell phone coverage can be spotty in remote areas
Register at entrance gates with your passport
Respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to visit Ugam Chatkal National Park?

Yes, you need to register at the entrance gate before entering the national park. Bring your passport as you'll need to show it during registration. While general access to many areas is permitted, the reserve zone of the park is closed to free visits by tourists. For certain activities or specific areas, additional permits may be required, so it's advisable to check requirements before your visit or arrange your trip through a local tour operator.

What is the best time of year to visit Ugam Chatkal National Park?

The best time to visit depends on your interests and planned activities. For general hiking and nature exploration, late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Summer (June-August) is ideal for higher altitude treks but can be extremely hot in lower elevations. Winter (November-March) transforms the park into a winter wonderland suitable for skiing and snow activities, though many trails become inaccessible.

Are there accommodation options within Ugam Chatkal National Park?

Accommodation within the park itself is limited. Most visitors either take day trips from Tashkent or camp in designated areas (bring your own equipment). There are some basic guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns and villages, but these fill up quickly during peak seasons, especially on weekends and holidays. For a more comfortable experience, many travelers base themselves in Tashkent and make day trips to different areas of the park.

Planning Your Visit to Ugam Chatkal National Park: Visa Information

Before embarking on your adventure to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Ugam Chatkal National Park, international visitors should ensure their travel documents are in order. Uzbekistan requires tourists from most countries to obtain a visa before arrival. Travelers can easily secure their travel authorization through GVC's streamlined online application process, making preparation for your Uzbekistan journey hassle-free.

After submitting your application, you can conveniently track your e-visa processing through GVC's user-friendly system. This allows you to plan your Ugam Chatkal National Park expedition with confidence. For budget-conscious adventurers, GVC offers various visa service options to accommodate different needs and timeframes, with special rates for group applications – perfect for family or group tours exploring the magnificent landscapes of Uzbekistan's largest national park.

With your visa secured, you'll be ready to experience one of Central Asia's most spectacular natural treasures, with its diverse ecosystems, ancient petroglyphs, and breathtaking mountain scenery that make Ugam Chatkal National Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

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