Hiking in Nuratau Mountains: Complete Guide to Uzbekistan's Hidden Trails

The Nuratau Mountains are Uzbekistan's best-kept secret for hikers. Just 3 hours from Samarkand, this protected biosphere reserve offers stunning scenery, traditional villages, and warm hospitality – all without the crowds of more famous destinations.

Why Hike in Nuratau?

• Authentic village life – Homestays with local families
• Unique wildlife – Home to the endangered Severtzov's sheep
• Ancient history – Petroglyphs dating back thousands of years
• Eco-tourism – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977
• Off the beaten path – Few tourists, authentic experience

Best Hiking Routes

1. Asraf Village Loop (Easy, 3-4 hours)

Perfect introduction to the mountains. Start from Asraf village, walk through walnut groves, and enjoy panoramic views. Ends with tea and homemade bread at a local family's home.

Highlights: Ancient walnut trees, village life, mountain views

2. Hayat Village to Uhum (Moderate, 5-6 hours)

A beautiful ridge walk connecting two traditional villages. Pass through alpine meadows and see traditional mountain shepherds with their flocks.

Best season: May-June when wildflowers carpet the hillsides

3. Majrum Canyon Trek (Moderate, Full Day)

Explore the dramatic Majrum Canyon with its rock formations and seasonal waterfalls. Look for petroglyphs on the canyon walls – some are over 3,000 years old!

4. Nuratau Peak (Challenging, 2 days)

Summit the highest point in the range (2,169m). Requires camping or staying in a remote shepherds' hut. Incredible 360-degree views of the desert and mountains.

When to Go

• Spring (April-May): Best for wildflowers, comfortable temperatures
• Early Summer (June): Warm days, cool nights, green landscapes
• Autumn (September-October): Harvest season, golden colors, great weather
• Avoid: July-August (too hot) and December-February (snow at higher elevations)

Where to Stay: CBT Homestays

The Community-Based Tourism (CBT) network offers authentic homestays in village houses. This is the real highlight of Nuratau – sleeping on traditional kurpacha (mattresses), eating home-cooked meals, and experiencing genuine Uzbek hospitality.

What to expect:

• Simple but clean rooms
• Delicious home-cooked meals
• Traditional evening tea ceremony
• Warm welcome from local families
• Your fee directly supports the community

What to Bring

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers – temperature varies greatly
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Water bottle (2+ liters)
• Snacks for the trail
• Camera – the views are incredible!
• Small gifts for host families (appreciated but not required)

Wildlife Spotting

Keep your eyes open for:

• Severtzov's sheep – Rare mountain sheep species
• Golden eagles – Soaring above the ridges
• Wild boar – In forested valleys
• Foxes and jackals – Often seen at dawn/dusk

Getting There

The Nuratau Mountains are about 200km from Samarkand. Options:

• Private tour – Most convenient, includes transport and guide
• Shared taxi to Nurata town – Then arrange local transport
• Self-drive – Good roads, but remote villages require local knowledge