Kattakurgan Reservoir: The Uzbek Sea

For a region where water has always been the main wealth, the Kattakurgan reservoir is a true giant lake. Locals call it the Uzbek Sea for its size and because in clear weather the far shore is barely visible. The water body sits on the Zarafshan river near the town of Kattakurgan and serves to irrigate fields and generate electricity. It has also become a place where people from Samarkand and Bukhara relax, swim and fish. Here is what you can do.

Where it is and how to get there

The reservoir lies in the Samarkand region, on the way between Samarkand and Bukhara. The town of Kattakurgan is about 70 kilometres from Samarkand, roughly an hour by road. More: Samarkand — Kattakurgan. Local roads lead from the town to the shores, and exact access points are best confirmed with local people or your driver. If you are coming from Samarkand for a day, leave in the morning to spend more time by the water.

What the water body is like

The Kattakurgan reservoir stretches along the river valley. Shores are gently sloping in most places, with sandy and stony stretches, surrounded by steppe and fields. There are few tall trees around, so shade is limited and wind is common. Sunsets over the water are beautiful, especially on calm evenings. Fishermen's boats are often visible on the water, and waterfowl live in the reeds.

What to do

1. Swim. In summer the water is warm. Enter where the bottom slopes gently, do not swim far and watch children. Currents and depths change quickly.
2. Fish. This is one of the main pastimes. The reservoir holds carp, crucian, bream and other fish. Ask local people about fishing rules and seasons. You can often order freshly fried fish on the shore.
3. Walk the shore. An evening stroll along the water is pleasant.
4. Watch birds. In spring and autumn migratory birds stop at the reservoir.
5. Have picnics. Bring food, water and a grill, but do not leave rubbish.
6. Take photographs. Expanses of water, clouds and sunsets give striking pictures.

Where to stay

The shores have holiday bases, small guesthouses and places for tents, but the choice is not large, so book ahead in season. A wider choice of hotels and guesthouses is in Kattakurgan and Samarkand. That is why many come for a day from Samarkand or stay in the city and go out to the water for a few hours. If you want to spend the night by the water, check the conditions: whether there is water, electricity, a shower and meals. Prices are approximate and depend on the season.

Seasons

• Spring. Green shores, cool, many birds. A good time for walks and fishing.
• Summer. Hot, warm water, the most popular season. Come in the morning or evening and look for shade by day.
• Autumn. Mild weather, golden colours, fewer people. An excellent time for fishing.
• Winter. Cold, windy and foggy. It can be interesting for anglers, but conditions for relaxing are harsh.

What to bring

• A hat, glasses, sunscreen: there is little shade.
• Water and food if you plan to spend several hours.
• Swimwear and a towel.
• A light sweater for the evening: the wind by the water is cool.
• Mosquito repellent, especially near the reeds.
• For fishing, tackle, bait and a permit if required.
• A rubbish bag.
• Cash: there are few terminals on the shore.

Safety

Watch children and do not leave them alone by the water. Do not swim after alcohol or far from the shore. Remember that the reservoir is large and has waves in wind. Do not go far in boats without life jackets. In the heat drink more water. Pay attention to warning signs and local people.

Combining with other places

A trip to the reservoir goes well with a programme in Samarkand. In the morning you can see the Registan, Shah-i-Zinda and Gur-Emir, then head to the water for the evening. On the way it is also convenient to stop in Kattakurgan, which has a bazaar. For two days add Bukhara or Navoi, which the same highway leads to.

Getting there without a car

Buses, minibuses and trains run to Kattakurgan, and beyond that you can take a taxi to the shores or arrange rides with local drivers. A shared ride suits part of the way. On Yo'ldosh you can find a driver heading along the Samarkand and Kattakurgan route and book a seat. You pay only for your seat, so it is cheaper than hiring a car for the whole day. For the last stretch, arrange in advance with a local driver, including the return.

Practical tips

Check the weather and wind strength the day before. Leave early so as not to stand in traffic. Ask local people where it is best to swim and fish. Prices for lodging, food and services are approximate and may change, 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: Дмитрий Караев, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.