The Hissar Reserve: The Highest Mountains of Uzbekistan

The Hissar range is the highest mountain massif in Uzbekistan. Its summits rise above four thousand metres, and the highest point in the country, Khazret Sultan peak, reaches roughly 4,640 metres. A large part of the range's northern slopes in the Kashkadarya region lies within the Hissar State Reserve. It is a strictly protected territory where forests, alpine meadows, glaciers and rare animals survive. Getting in is not easy, but it is useful for anyone travelling to the south of the country to know about this corner.

What the reserve is

The Hissar Reserve was created to protect mountain ecosystems. Rivers born in glaciers and snowfields flow here, and juniper forests, walnut groves and mountain steppe grow. Landscapes change with altitude: orchards and villages at the bottom, forests above, then alpine meadows, and on the very top bare rock, snow and ice. Such variety creates conditions for many plants and animals, including rare species. The reserve is strictly protected, so free entry to its territory is usually forbidden.

Wildlife and plants

The mountains are home to ibex and wild sheep, boar, badgers, foxes, wolves and brown bears. In the most inaccessible areas, according to specialists, snow leopards also occur, but seeing one is almost impossible. Among birds there are many raptors, such as golden eagles, lammergeiers and vultures. In spring the slopes are covered with flowers, including tulips and foxtail lilies, and in summer the meadows bloom with mixed grasses. In autumn the hazel and maple turn gold.

Glaciers and peaks

High in the mountains lie glaciers and snowfields. They feed the rivers from which local people draw water for their fields. A climb to the glaciers is a serious undertaking that requires preparation, equipment and experience. For an ordinary tourist it is enough to admire the range from a distance, for example from viewpoints along roads in the foothills. Ascents of peaks above four thousand metres are available only to trained mountaineers with permits and escort.

How to reach the area around the reserve

The reserve lies in the south of the Kashkadarya region. The nearest towns are Shahrisabz, Kitab and Yakkabag. From Qarshi to Yakkabag takes about an hour to an hour and a half: Qarshi — Yakkabag. From Shahrisabz to Kitab the road is short: Shahrisabz — Kitab. Use these towns as a base for getting to know the foothills. Here you can see mountain scenery, orchards, walnut groves and traditional villages.

Entry to the reserve itself is restricted, and part of the area is a border zone. To visit, you must contact the reserve administration or local tourism organisations in advance, obtain permission and, as a rule, take an escort. Entering the protected territory on your own is not allowed.

What to do nearby without permits

1. Walks in the foothills. Trails along rivers, walnut groves, viewpoints.
2. Getting to know villages. Houses, vegetable plots, local cuisine.
3. Seeing the sights of Shahrisabz and Kitab. Remains of palaces, mosques and mausoleums can be seen here.
4. Photographing the mountains. The best shots come at sunrise and sunset.
5. Birdwatching. Binoculars help you spot raptors over the gorges.

Seasons

• Spring is beautiful with blooming slopes, but roads may be washed out.
• Summer is convenient for high-altitude outings, but hot below.
• Autumn is warm, with golden colours and fewer people.
• Winter is cold, passes are closed by snow and many roads are unavailable.

What to consider

• Border regime: carry your passport and possibly permits. Documents may be checked at posts.
• Altitude. Above three thousand metres altitude sickness is possible, so ascend gradually.
• Weather changes quickly, so bring warm and rain clothing.
• Coverage in the mountains is unstable, so tell your family the route.
• Do not leave rubbish, light fires or pick plants.

Getting there without a car

Trains, buses and minibuses run to Qarshi and Shahrisabz, and beyond that you need to arrange rides with local drivers. A shared ride suits part of the way. On Yo'ldosh you can find a driver heading along the Qarshi to Yakkabag or Shahrisabz to Kitab route and book a seat. You pay only for your seat, so it is cheaper than hiring a car. Discuss the return in advance so as not to be stuck on the road in the evening.

Practical tips

Plan the trip for several days so as not to hurry. Carry cash, since terminals in villages do not work everywhere. Prices for transport and guide services are approximate and depend on the season, so confirm them in advance.

Find other directions on the all routes page, and read how to book rides in the for passengers section.

Cover photo: Javlon Abdusattorov, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.