Sangardak Waterfall: The Best-Known Waterfall of the South

The south of Uzbekistan is known for heat and deserts, so a waterfall here feels like a small miracle. Sangardak lies in the mountains of the Surkhandarya region, in the Sariosiyo district, and is considered one of the best-known waterfalls in the country. Water falling over a ledge forms a cloud of spray, trees grow green around it, and it is cool nearby even on a hot day. Here is how to reach it and how to prepare.

Where it is

The waterfall is in the foothills of the Hissar range, in the Sariosiyo district, north of the town of Denau. The nearest major centres are Denau and Sariosiyo, with a road between them. Route description: Denau — Sariosiyo. It is better to confirm exact landmarks with local people, as signs on the road may be few and the approach to the waterfall differs depending on road conditions. From Termez it is roughly two to three hours, from Denau considerably less.

How to get there

First you need to reach Denau or Sariosiyo. You can do this by bus, minibus, train to Denau or by car. From there the way runs on asphalt, then on a dirt road, and the final stretch often has to be walked. The walk takes from half an hour to an hour depending on where the car could get to. The trail follows the river and often crosses streams, so you need shoes you do not mind getting wet. In rainy weather the dirt road becomes slippery and impassable for ordinary cars, so after downpours it is better to postpone the trip.

When to come

• March, April, May. The fullest time, when snow melts in the mountains. The waterfall roars, slopes are green, tulips and poppies bloom.
• June. Still enough water, but it gets hot. Go early in the morning.
• July and August. Heat, with a shallower waterfall that sometimes nearly dries up. But it is cool in the shade of the trees.
• Autumn. Less water, but the colours are lovely and the temperature comfortable.
• Winter. Cold, and roads may be closed.

You will get the best impression in spring, though in summer water sometimes lasts through the day.

What to do at the waterfall

1. Take photographs. The best shots come in the morning when the sun lights the streams.
2. Have a picnic. There are spots nearby in the shade of trees, but leaving rubbish is not allowed.
3. Cool off. At the foot the water is cold, but the current and rocks are dangerous, so swim carefully and only in shallow places.
4. Walk the valley. Trails run along the river and climb the slopes.
5. Watch birds. Mountain birds can be seen in the bushes and on the rocks.

What else to do on the way

Denau itself is interesting as a trading centre with a large bazaar selling fruit, dried fruit and souvenirs. Not far away is the Tupalang reservoir with turquoise water. You can also go to Boysun, known for mountain scenery and traditions, or to Termez to see Buddhist monuments and mausoleums. For a two-day trip this makes a rich route: the waterfall, the reservoir, a night in Denau, then Boysun.

What to bring

• Shoes with a good tread that do not slip on wet rock.
• Spare clothes if you want to get closer to the water.
• At least two litres of water: there are no sources on the trail.
• A snack or picnic food.
• A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• A waterproof phone case.
• A rubbish bag.
• Cash: terminals rarely work.

Safety

Wet rocks at the waterfall are very slippery, so do not climb the cliffs for a photograph. Do not stand under falling stones and do not walk in the riverbed after rain: flash floods happen in the mountains. Watch children. Avoid jumping into the water and do not swim alone. In the heat beware of sunstroke, and on the trail watch for snakes. Tell someone your route, as mobile coverage in the gorge is unstable.

Getting there without a car

Public transport does not run to the waterfall, but buses and minibuses go to Denau and Sariosiyo. Beyond that you can arrange a local driver. For part of the way a shared ride is handy: on Yo'ldosh you can find a driver heading along the Denau and Sariosiyo route and book a seat, paying only for your seat. It is cheaper than hiring a car for the whole way. Agree in advance how you will return so as not to be stuck on the road in the evening.

Practical tips

Set off early in the morning. Check the weather forecast and road conditions. Ask local people where it is best to leave the car. Prices for transport and services are approximate and best confirmed in advance.

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

Cover photo: Jonibek Qo'zimurodov, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.