Nurata Mountain Nature Reserve
Established in 1975, the Nurata State Mountain Nature Reserve protects 17,752 hectares of untouched Central Asian landscape. The highest peak — called the "Peak of Life" — rises to 2,169 meters above sea level.
The reserve is home to an extraordinary diversity of life:
- 821 plant species from 78 families, including 33 species listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan — among them rare tulips, lilies, and mountain flowers
- 199 bird species, of which 103 nest within the reserve — 10 are protected under Uzbekistan's Red Book, and several under the IUCN International Red Book
- 761 insect species, 21 reptile species including cobras and ratsnakes
- The rarest and most iconic resident: the Severtzov Argali (Ovis severtzovi) — an endemic mountain sheep found only in the Nurata range, listed in the IUCN Red Book. Today approximately 1,800 Severtzov sheep live in the reserve
History of the Nurata Mountains
The Nurata Mountains have been home to human settlements for thousands of years. Uzbek tribes arrived as early as the 13th century, followed by Tajiks and Kazakhs. The region sits along one of the ancient Silk Road caravan routes connecting the Syrdarya River to Bukhara via Nurata.
Scattered across the mountains are remarkable historical treasures:
- Petroglyphs in Tikchasoy, Asrafsay, Majrumsay and other gorges
- Ruins of medieval castles in Sentob, Majrum and Ukhum villages
- A legendary 3,000-year-old spruce tree — 24 meters in diameter, believed by locals to have been planted by Alexander the Great
- Ancient sacred tombs of Hazrati Ali and Eshanbobo
CBT & Eco Tourism in Nurata Mountains
The Nurata Mountains are a top destination for community-based tourism (CBT) in Uzbekistan. Visitors can experience real village life, home stays, traditional Uzbek cuisine, and guided trekking tours through ancient gorges and mountain passes.
Popular Villages for Tourism near Nurata
| Village | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sentob / Sentyab | Trekking, petroglyphs, castle ruins |
| Ukhum | Mountain passes, medieval history |
| Hayat | Birdwatching, scenic gorges |
| Asraf | Nature walks, local culture |
| Majrum | Ancient mosque ruins, Silk Road history |
What to Do in Nurata Mountains
- Trekking through alpine gorges and Silk Road passes
- Birdwatching — 199 species including rare IUCN-listed birds
- Wildlife spotting — Severtzov Argali, agamas, snakes, butterflies
- Homestay & CBT — live with local families in mountain villages
- Historical tours — petroglyphs, castles, ancient mosques
- Photography tours — stunning mountain landscapes
How to Get to Nurata Mountains
Nurata town is located approximately 180 km from Samarkand and 300 km from Tashkent. From Nurata town, mountain villages are accessible by local transport or guided 4x4 vehicles.
Plan Your Nurata Mountains Tour
Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker — Nurata Mountains in Uzbekistan offer an unforgettable experience far from the tourist crowds.