Kasansay and Chartak: Mountains and Springs of the Namangan Region
Cool gorges, a reservoir and mineral springs north of Namangan: what to see, when to go and how to organise a day or a weekend.
Namangan is known for orchards, bazaars and skullcaps, but north of the city lies a very different world: hills, gorges and mountain rivers. Here are the Kasansay district with its reservoir and the resort town of Chartak, long known for mineral waters. For people of the valley this is the nearest place to escape the heat, and a good idea for travellers tired of cities. Here is what exists and how to arrange it.
Where they are
Kasansay lies north of Namangan, roughly 50 to 60 kilometres from the city along a road that gradually climbs into the foothills. Route details: Namangan — Kasansay. The drive takes about an hour. Chartak is closer to Namangan, north-west of the city, and can be reached in half an hour to an hour. Both points combine easily in one trip. The surroundings are green, especially in spring, and in the hot months temperatures in the foothills are a few degrees lower than in the city.
The Kasansay reservoir and gorges
The reservoir on the Kasansay river was created for irrigation but has also become a place to relax. The water is clean, the shores gentle, with hills around on which tulips and poppies bloom in spring and the grass dries out in summer. The shore has many picnic spots, and it is pleasant to sit in the shade of trees on a hot day. Upstream, gorges with cold streams and springs begin. For walking, trails along the water and over the slopes are suitable. There are few serious hikes here, but many calm routes for a family.
Chartak and the mineral springs
Chartak is known for healing mineral waters and sanatoriums where people come for treatment and rest. The waters are used for baths and drinking, and many people in the region come here for a wellness break. Conditions in the sanatoriums vary, so before the trip it is better to learn which treatments are available and what contraindications exist. People with chronic conditions should consult a doctor before treatments. Besides sanatoriums, Chartak has parks, cafes and quiet streets for walking.
What to do
- Walk along the reservoir shore. Morning and evening are especially beautiful.
- Have a picnic. Protect nature and take your rubbish with you.
- Walk trails in the gorges. Choose short routes and do not go far without a guide.
- Drink spring water only if local people have confirmed it is safe. In doubtful cases use bottled water.
- Visit a sanatorium for a day or a longer stay.
- Get to know villages. You can see how people live in the foothills and buy honey, nuts and dried fruit.
- Photograph the scenery. The best light is in the morning and evening.
Seasons
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring | Green slopes, flowers, plenty of water, rain possible |
| Summer | Hot below, cool in the gorges, the best time for water |
| Autumn | Warm days, golden slopes, ripe fruit |
| Winter | Cold, fog, snow, many places empty |
What to bring
- Light clothing for the day and a warm sweater for the evening.
- Comfortable closed shoes for trails.
- A hat, glasses, sunscreen.
- Water and picnic food.
- Swimwear if you plan to enter the water.
- Mosquito repellent.
- A rubbish bag.
- Cash: terminals do not work everywhere.
- Documents and medical recommendations if you go to a sanatorium.
Safety
Check the weather. After rain, mudflows and washed-out roads are possible in gorges, so do not enter stream beds. Swim only in safe places and not alone. Watch children. Do not drink unfamiliar water. Do not leave rubbish or light fires outside designated places. For long routes tell your family your plan.
Combining with other places
The trip is easy to combine with a programme in Namangan: see the city and bazaar in the morning, then go to Chartak or Kasansay. For two days add Chust with its knives and skullcaps, or Pap on the way to Tashkent. For those coming from Tashkent it is a lovely continuation of the way into the valley.
Getting there without a car
Buses and minibuses run from Namangan to Kasansay, and Chartak can be reached by city transport or taxi. The most beautiful places, such as gorges and shores, often need a car. A shared ride suits part of the way. On Yo'ldosh you can find a driver heading along the Namangan and Kasansay route and book a seat. You pay only for your seat, so it is cheaper than hiring a car for the day. For the last stretch, arrange with a local driver in advance, including the return.
Practical tips
Set off in the morning to enjoy the coolness. Find out in advance the opening hours of a sanatorium if you plan to go. Prices for lodging, treatment, transport and food are approximate and depend on the season and programme, 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: Komilkhuja, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.
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