Chimgan Ring Trek – Uzbekistan

Chimgan Ring Trek – Uzbekistan

Trip Type: Trekking
Region: Tian Shan Mountains, Uzbekistan
Grade: Moderate
Duration: 8+ Days
Max Altitude: 3309
Best Season: June - September
Trip Begins: Tashkent / Ends: Tashkent
Trip Cost

This is a custom departure tour and so please write to us for prices and more info on this trek.

Uzbekistan is a country of warmth and light where you can enjoy clear sunny skies for over 300 days a year. The warmth of the sun in Uzbekistan is complemented with the warmth and hospitality of the local people who are famous for their hospitality.

Uzbekistan boasts very diverse terrains and attractions. During the course of this trip, we make our way through the majestic mountains of the Tian Shan originating not far from Tashkent and end the trip with a visit to the historical Silk Route cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva.

During the course of this trip, we make our way through the majestic mountains of the Tian Shan originating not far from Tashkent and end the trip with a visit to the historical Silk Route cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. We start the trek near the foot of Big Chimgan mountain’s northern ridge and traversing the mountain, we reach the summit from the southern side. After that, we move on to the Takhta and Kumbel passes in the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. One of the largest National Parks in Uzbekistan. Home to mountain goats, bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, porcupines and more than 20 species of birds.

The trekking portion of the trip we start the trip by driving an hour to the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. One of the largest National Parks in Uzbekistan. Home to mountain goats, bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, porcupines and more than 20 species of birds. It borders the Aksu Zhabagly National park in Kazakhstan and the Besh Aral State reserve in Kyrgyzstan. This entire National Park area is known locally as Chimgan, a reference to both its biggest town and its central peak, Bolshoy (Big) Chimgan (3309m). We start the trek near the foot of Big Chimgan mountain’s northern ridge and traversing the mountain, we reach the summit from the southern side. After that, we move on to the Takhta and Kumbel passes.

The trek gives one a unique experience of the motley palette of the marvellous land, awe inspiring rock faces, noisy stony rivers and cool springs, the Pulatkhan plateau cloaked in fantastic hues, the Charvak sea from a bird’s-eye view and close ridges of Western Tien-Shan.

Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive in Tashkent

Arrive in Tashkent and transfer to the hotel. Tashkent sightseeing – Khast-Imam Square, Barak-Khan Madrasah, Kafal-al-Shashi Mausoleum, Kukeldash Madrasah and the oldest bazaar of Tashkent “Chorsu”.

DAY 02
Tashkent - Chimgan - Gulkam Gorge (1500m) Camp 1 Duration: Drive 2 hours ; Trek 4 hours

Drive from Tashkent to Chimgan village (100km\ 2hours).The road from Tashkent follows the Chirchik river past hydroelectric dams and the modern city of Chirchik, famed for its chemical works. The Chimgan village was settled 400–500 years ago in the mountain massif of Greater Chimgan peak (3,309 m), at an altitude of 1,620 m.

We start the trek up to Pasochny Pass. From the top of the pass, get a great view of the Gulkam gorge. We keep ascending through easy terrain to reach the top of Lesser Chingam (2097m) Descend to the picturesque Gulkam gorge (1400 m) full of birch trees along. Walk along the Gulkamsai river to the confluence of the Kichkinekoksai to reach Camp 1.

DAY 03
Gulkam Gorge - ‘Kholodilnik’ Fridge Camp/ Camp 2 (2150m) Duration: 4 hours

We start the trail along a forested trail with apples, barberry, blackberry and Alcha trees around us. Reach a freshwater spring and break for lunch. We move onward through fascinating rock formations that look human-like made by the unique climate of the western Tian Shan. We continue walking along the turbulent waters of the Mazarsay river getting closer to the foot of Greater Chimgan and Okhotnichy peak(3099m). Pass Kholodilnik a limestone formation which means ‘fridge’ as it is always cold here. We pitch camp a bit further ahead near the river.

DAY 04
Fridge Camp - Camp 3 ( 2600m) Duration: 4 hours

We start the day with an ascent to Komsomolets Pass (2700m) and then traverse along the ridge to reach the upper reaches of the Kara – Archa River (2850m) Descend to reach the flat campsite at 2600m.

DAY 05
Camp 3 - Greater Chimgan Summit(3309m) - Camp 3 (2600m) Duration: 5 hours

The trek today is on easier terrain and we reach the summit in 3 hours. We get great views of the Pulatkhan Plateau stretching out before us. Also view the neighbours of B. Chimgan – ridges called Mingjilky, Pskem, Ugam, Korjantau, summits called Surenata and Maigashkan, and also – Charvak reservoir, which looks like a small sky-blue triangle from this point. Lunch at the summit and return to Camp 3.

DAY 06
Camp 3 - Pass Takhta - Pass Chet Kumbel - Camp 4 (1880m) Duration: 7 hours

A longer day today but the terrain is uncomplicated. We walk along a well-defined path to reach Takhta Pass (2620m) where we get our last view of Pulatkhan Plateau. From the pass, walk one and a half hours to reach ancient rock carvings of animals and human hunters and gatherers. Descend to Chet Kumbel Pass and set up Camp 4.

DAY 07
Camp 4 - Tashkent Duration: Trek 2 hours ; Drive 2 hours

The day starts lazily. Option to take a shower at a waterfall. We walk along river Beldersayto reach the lower station of the cable lift in the Beldersay Tract – one of the most popular winter sports destinations in Uzbekistan. Transfer to Tashkent and check into the hotel. In the evening, visit Independence Square and Amir Temur Square. Return to the hotel overnight.

DAY 08
Tashkent - Samarkand Duration: Drive 5 hours

Leave Tashkent early in the morning for a 5-hour drive to Samarkand. Check-in the hotel. After lunch, sightseeing in Samarkand. Visit the most impressive square in Central Asia – the Registan Square (Ulugbek Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, Tilya-Kori Madrasah), Gur-e Amir mausoleum – necropolis of the Timurids.

DAY 09
Samarkand

After breakfast, leave the hotel for sightseeing. Visit Bibi-Khanym mosque, architectural ensemble Shah-i-Zinda and Ulugbek observatory. Afternoon at leisure or for personal exploration.

DAY 10
Samarkand - Bukhara Duration: Drive 5 hours

After breakfast, drive 5 hours to Bukhara and check into your hotel. After lunch sightseeing program in Bukhara: Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, Kukeldash Madrasah, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, domed shopping arcade. Visiting a showroom of Bukhara golden-embroidered factory and Karakul dressing (astrakhan fur) workshop.

DAY 11
Bukhara

Breakfast at the hotel. Continuation of sightseeing program in Bukhara: Mausoleum of Samanids, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo-Khauz Complex, Ark Citadel, Po-i-Kalyan Complex, Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, Ulugbek Madrasah. After lunch out-of-town guided sightseeing tour (4 km from Bukhara): Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, memorial complex of the Islamic saint Baha-ud-Din Naqshband. Return to Bukhara.

Transfer by train to Tashkent. On arrival check-in and overnight at the hotel.

DAY 12
Departure

Early morning transfer to airport for departure. Trip Ends!

Inclusions
  • Meeting/seeing-off at airport.
  • All transfers according to the tour program.
  • Accommodation at the hotels on twin/double sharing basis with breakfasts.
  • Accommodation in the mountain camp “Artuch” for 4 people in a cottage.
  • Services during the trekking in the Fann Mountains:
    – full board (three hot meals a day).
    – accommodation in twin sharing tents.
    – services of an english-speaking mountain guide, cook and service staff.
    – donkey rental for personal and team luggage transportation.
    – porters’ service for personal equipment transportation (weight max.10 kg).
    – bivouac and kitchen equipment (tents, kitchenware).
  • First-aid kit.
  • All needed documents arrangement.
    ecological fee.
Exclusions
  • Personal Clothing.
  • Sleeping Bag.
  • Air Fares, Laundry, Phone Calls, Alcohol, Cigarettes, Drinks, Souvenirs and any other expense of Personal nature.
  • Tip for guides, cook and porters.
  • Any additional costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control.
Things You Need To Get

Pack:

– Backpack 40 – 50 Lts with rain cover.This you will need in case you choose to offload your larger pack onto a horse/porter
– Day Pack 15 – 20 lts – You will use this to carry your camera, water bottle, Trail layers, trail food etc.

Footwear:

-Trekking Shoes: Please do not wear sports shoes as on most treks as we go higher it gets harder to use the sports shoes. We recommend shoes with a good hard sole and also ankle support preferable water proof.

Socks:

– 2 -3 pairs of cotton socks.
– 2 pairs of woollen socks (these are ideal to sleep in and best to use when in camp. We do not recommend them while trekking).

Clothing:

– Pants: 3 pairs (including the ones you wear) – Ideal are the quick dry light weight synthetic pants. Alternatively track pants are also comfortable to trek in. We do not recommend you get Denims or Jeans as they get hard to trek in.
– Tshirts 3 pairs (including the ones you are wearing) – Preferable cotton t-shirts that are full sleeves. You can also choose to get T-shirts with collars, they offer extra protection for the neck from sun burns.
– Synthetic Fleece Jacket – 1 pair.
– Wind proof/ Water proof Jacket – 1 pair.
– Down filled / Hollow fiber fill insulated Jacket – 1 -pair ( optional – get this if you want to stay extra warm at camps.)
– Thermal liners – 1 pair upper and lower (optional).
Accessories:
– Raincoat/ Poncho – what ever you get make sure it is something that will cover your daypack and camera too.
– Warm Beanie – make sure it is something that covers your ears. You can also use buffs, scarfs etc in addition to your beanie.
– Gloves – Lightweight synthetic gloves made of Fleece or you can also use woollen gloves.
– Sun Cap- 1 no
– Sun Glasses with good UV protection.
Other necessary things that we recommend you get:
– Toiletries – Sunscreen SPF 40+, Moisturizer, Lip balm, Soap, Toilet paper.
– Repair Kit (needle and thread).
– Headlamp/ Torch.
– Camera.
– Water Bottle- Ideally keep two bottle 1 litre each.
– Trekking Pole – Optional.
– Plastic Packing covers. (Please pack all your gear in waterproof plastic bags so that your clothes etc do not get wet while on horses or porters. Also carry extra plastic bags in case you need to pack wet clothes.)

Overview
+-

Uzbekistan is a country of warmth and light where you can enjoy clear sunny skies for over 300 days a year. The warmth of the sun in Uzbekistan is complemented with the warmth and hospitality of the local people who are famous for their hospitality.

Uzbekistan boasts very diverse terrains and attractions. During the course of this trip, we make our way through the majestic mountains of the Tian Shan originating not far from Tashkent and end the trip with a visit to the historical Silk Route cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva.

During the course of this trip, we make our way through the majestic mountains of the Tian Shan originating not far from Tashkent and end the trip with a visit to the historical Silk Route cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. We start the trek near the foot of Big Chimgan mountain’s northern ridge and traversing the mountain, we reach the summit from the southern side. After that, we move on to the Takhta and Kumbel passes in the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. One of the largest National Parks in Uzbekistan. Home to mountain goats, bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, porcupines and more than 20 species of birds.

The trekking portion of the trip we start the trip by driving an hour to the Ugam-Chatkal National Park. One of the largest National Parks in Uzbekistan. Home to mountain goats, bears, wolves, foxes, wild boars, porcupines and more than 20 species of birds. It borders the Aksu Zhabagly National park in Kazakhstan and the Besh Aral State reserve in Kyrgyzstan. This entire National Park area is known locally as Chimgan, a reference to both its biggest town and its central peak, Bolshoy (Big) Chimgan (3309m). We start the trek near the foot of Big Chimgan mountain’s northern ridge and traversing the mountain, we reach the summit from the southern side. After that, we move on to the Takhta and Kumbel passes.

The trek gives one a unique experience of the motley palette of the marvellous land, awe inspiring rock faces, noisy stony rivers and cool springs, the Pulatkhan plateau cloaked in fantastic hues, the Charvak sea from a bird’s-eye view and close ridges of Western Tien-Shan.

Itinerary
+-
DAY 01
Arrive in Tashkent

Arrive in Tashkent and transfer to the hotel. Tashkent sightseeing – Khast-Imam Square, Barak-Khan Madrasah, Kafal-al-Shashi Mausoleum, Kukeldash Madrasah and the oldest bazaar of Tashkent “Chorsu”.

DAY 02
Tashkent - Chimgan - Gulkam Gorge (1500m) Camp 1 Duration: Drive 2 hours ; Trek 4 hours

Drive from Tashkent to Chimgan village (100km\ 2hours).The road from Tashkent follows the Chirchik river past hydroelectric dams and the modern city of Chirchik, famed for its chemical works. The Chimgan village was settled 400–500 years ago in the mountain massif of Greater Chimgan peak (3,309 m), at an altitude of 1,620 m.

We start the trek up to Pasochny Pass. From the top of the pass, get a great view of the Gulkam gorge. We keep ascending through easy terrain to reach the top of Lesser Chingam (2097m) Descend to the picturesque Gulkam gorge (1400 m) full of birch trees along. Walk along the Gulkamsai river to the confluence of the Kichkinekoksai to reach Camp 1.

DAY 03
Gulkam Gorge - ‘Kholodilnik’ Fridge Camp/ Camp 2 (2150m) Duration: 4 hours

We start the trail along a forested trail with apples, barberry, blackberry and Alcha trees around us. Reach a freshwater spring and break for lunch. We move onward through fascinating rock formations that look human-like made by the unique climate of the western Tian Shan. We continue walking along the turbulent waters of the Mazarsay river getting closer to the foot of Greater Chimgan and Okhotnichy peak(3099m). Pass Kholodilnik a limestone formation which means ‘fridge’ as it is always cold here. We pitch camp a bit further ahead near the river.

DAY 04
Fridge Camp - Camp 3 ( 2600m) Duration: 4 hours

We start the day with an ascent to Komsomolets Pass (2700m) and then traverse along the ridge to reach the upper reaches of the Kara – Archa River (2850m) Descend to reach the flat campsite at 2600m.

DAY 05
Camp 3 - Greater Chimgan Summit(3309m) - Camp 3 (2600m) Duration: 5 hours

The trek today is on easier terrain and we reach the summit in 3 hours. We get great views of the Pulatkhan Plateau stretching out before us. Also view the neighbours of B. Chimgan – ridges called Mingjilky, Pskem, Ugam, Korjantau, summits called Surenata and Maigashkan, and also – Charvak reservoir, which looks like a small sky-blue triangle from this point. Lunch at the summit and return to Camp 3.

DAY 06
Camp 3 - Pass Takhta - Pass Chet Kumbel - Camp 4 (1880m) Duration: 7 hours

A longer day today but the terrain is uncomplicated. We walk along a well-defined path to reach Takhta Pass (2620m) where we get our last view of Pulatkhan Plateau. From the pass, walk one and a half hours to reach ancient rock carvings of animals and human hunters and gatherers. Descend to Chet Kumbel Pass and set up Camp 4.

DAY 07
Camp 4 - Tashkent Duration: Trek 2 hours ; Drive 2 hours

The day starts lazily. Option to take a shower at a waterfall. We walk along river Beldersayto reach the lower station of the cable lift in the Beldersay Tract – one of the most popular winter sports destinations in Uzbekistan. Transfer to Tashkent and check into the hotel. In the evening, visit Independence Square and Amir Temur Square. Return to the hotel overnight.

DAY 08
Tashkent - Samarkand Duration: Drive 5 hours

Leave Tashkent early in the morning for a 5-hour drive to Samarkand. Check-in the hotel. After lunch, sightseeing in Samarkand. Visit the most impressive square in Central Asia – the Registan Square (Ulugbek Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, Tilya-Kori Madrasah), Gur-e Amir mausoleum – necropolis of the Timurids.

DAY 09
Samarkand

After breakfast, leave the hotel for sightseeing. Visit Bibi-Khanym mosque, architectural ensemble Shah-i-Zinda and Ulugbek observatory. Afternoon at leisure or for personal exploration.

DAY 10
Samarkand - Bukhara Duration: Drive 5 hours

After breakfast, drive 5 hours to Bukhara and check into your hotel. After lunch sightseeing program in Bukhara: Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, Kukeldash Madrasah, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, domed shopping arcade. Visiting a showroom of Bukhara golden-embroidered factory and Karakul dressing (astrakhan fur) workshop.

DAY 11
Bukhara

Breakfast at the hotel. Continuation of sightseeing program in Bukhara: Mausoleum of Samanids, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo-Khauz Complex, Ark Citadel, Po-i-Kalyan Complex, Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, Ulugbek Madrasah. After lunch out-of-town guided sightseeing tour (4 km from Bukhara): Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, memorial complex of the Islamic saint Baha-ud-Din Naqshband. Return to Bukhara.

Transfer by train to Tashkent. On arrival check-in and overnight at the hotel.

DAY 12
Departure

Early morning transfer to airport for departure. Trip Ends!

Inclusions/ Exclusions
+-
Inclusions
  • Meeting/seeing-off at airport.
  • All transfers according to the tour program.
  • Accommodation at the hotels on twin/double sharing basis with breakfasts.
  • Accommodation in the mountain camp “Artuch” for 4 people in a cottage.
  • Services during the trekking in the Fann Mountains:
    – full board (three hot meals a day).
    – accommodation in twin sharing tents.
    – services of an english-speaking mountain guide, cook and service staff.
    – donkey rental for personal and team luggage transportation.
    – porters’ service for personal equipment transportation (weight max.10 kg).
    – bivouac and kitchen equipment (tents, kitchenware).
  • First-aid kit.
  • All needed documents arrangement.
    ecological fee.
Exclusions
  • Personal Clothing.
  • Sleeping Bag.
  • Air Fares, Laundry, Phone Calls, Alcohol, Cigarettes, Drinks, Souvenirs and any other expense of Personal nature.
  • Tip for guides, cook and porters.
  • Any additional costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control.
Things You Need To Get
+-

Pack:

– Backpack 40 – 50 Lts with rain cover.This you will need in case you choose to offload your larger pack onto a horse/porter
– Day Pack 15 – 20 lts – You will use this to carry your camera, water bottle, Trail layers, trail food etc.

Footwear:

-Trekking Shoes: Please do not wear sports shoes as on most treks as we go higher it gets harder to use the sports shoes. We recommend shoes with a good hard sole and also ankle support preferable water proof.

Socks:

– 2 -3 pairs of cotton socks.
– 2 pairs of woollen socks (these are ideal to sleep in and best to use when in camp. We do not recommend them while trekking).

Clothing:

– Pants: 3 pairs (including the ones you wear) – Ideal are the quick dry light weight synthetic pants. Alternatively track pants are also comfortable to trek in. We do not recommend you get Denims or Jeans as they get hard to trek in.
– Tshirts 3 pairs (including the ones you are wearing) – Preferable cotton t-shirts that are full sleeves. You can also choose to get T-shirts with collars, they offer extra protection for the neck from sun burns.
– Synthetic Fleece Jacket – 1 pair.
– Wind proof/ Water proof Jacket – 1 pair.
– Down filled / Hollow fiber fill insulated Jacket – 1 -pair ( optional – get this if you want to stay extra warm at camps.)
– Thermal liners – 1 pair upper and lower (optional).
Accessories:
– Raincoat/ Poncho – what ever you get make sure it is something that will cover your daypack and camera too.
– Warm Beanie – make sure it is something that covers your ears. You can also use buffs, scarfs etc in addition to your beanie.
– Gloves – Lightweight synthetic gloves made of Fleece or you can also use woollen gloves.
– Sun Cap- 1 no
– Sun Glasses with good UV protection.
Other necessary things that we recommend you get:
– Toiletries – Sunscreen SPF 40+, Moisturizer, Lip balm, Soap, Toilet paper.
– Repair Kit (needle and thread).
– Headlamp/ Torch.
– Camera.
– Water Bottle- Ideally keep two bottle 1 litre each.
– Trekking Pole – Optional.
– Plastic Packing covers. (Please pack all your gear in waterproof plastic bags so that your clothes etc do not get wet while on horses or porters. Also carry extra plastic bags in case you need to pack wet clothes.)