Climbing Big Chimgan: Route, Difficulty and Gear

Big Chimgan, the best-known peak around Tashkent, rises above the village of the same name to about 3,309 metres. For many residents of the capital the climb is their first real mountain ascent. Technically the route does not need mountaineering equipment in summer, but it is long, with an elevation gain of more than one and a half thousand metres, and should not be underestimated. Here is how to prepare.

What the route is like

The starting point is the village of Chimgan at about 1,600 metres. The road there is described on the Tashkent — Chirchik page. The best-known trail goes up the slope from the village, first through meadows and juniper groves, then across rocky scree to the ridge, and then along the ridge to the summit. It is a hiking route with no mandatory ropes or pitons, but it has steep sections and scree where it is easy to lose balance.

Time and effort

As a rough guide the ascent takes five to seven hours and the descent three to four. The whole outing takes about 9 to 11 hours with rests, so you need to start at dawn. The elevation difference is around 1,700 metres. For a physically fit person it is manageable, but for an untrained beginner it is hard. Keep a steady pace, stop when you need to and do not run uphill.

The best season

• Late May and June: the trail is dry and slopes are green, but snow is still possible on the upper sections.
• July and August: the most stable period, though it is hot on the lower sections by day and thunderstorms are possible towards evening.
• September and early October: cool, clear, with beautiful views, but daylight is shorter.
• Winter and early spring: the summit is covered in snow and avalanches are possible. A winter ascent needs experience and a guide.

Dangerous spots

Problems most often come from weather and fatigue rather than difficult technique. The main risks:

• Afternoon thunderstorms. If you hear thunder, descend from the ridge at once, since metal and height attract lightning.
• Fog and precipitation, which make you lose the trail.
• Scree and wet rocks, where it is easy to twist an ankle.
• Strong wind on the ridge.
• Dehydration and heatstroke on open slopes.
• Altitude strain: above three kilometres, headache and weakness are possible.

Gear

1. Trekking boots with a stiff sole, tested beforehand. Sneakers are not suitable.
2. Trekking poles. They relieve the knees on the descent.
3. Layered clothing: thermal base layer, fleece, a windproof and waterproof jacket.
4. Hat, gloves and sunglasses: it is cold and bright at the top.
5. At least 2 to 3 litres of water and a carbohydrate snack.
6. A headlamp in case of delay.
7. A first-aid kit and blister plasters.
8. A charged phone and a power bank.

Do you need a guide

Experienced hikers go alone. But a guide is necessary if you are in the mountains for the first time, going in winter or in unsettled weather, travelling with children or older people, or unsure of navigation. A guide knows the trail, judges the state of the slope and decides when to turn back. Agree with a guide in advance and confirm the cost, which depends on the group and the season.

Going sensibly

• Set off at dawn and decide a turnaround time in advance. If you are not at the summit by that hour, go back.
• Check the forecast the day before.
• Do not go alone without telling anyone. Tell your family the route and return time.
• Carry your rubbish out.
• Do not cut the trail switchbacks; it speeds up slope erosion.

Reaching the trailhead

You can reach the village by minibus from Tashkent, but for an early start public transport is usually unsuitable. A taxi costs a fair amount. One option is to stay overnight in Chimgan the day before and start on foot in the morning. Or arrange a shared ride: on Yo'ldosh you can find a driver heading from Tashkent towards Chirchik and book a seat. The price for one seat is lower than for a whole taxi, and the departure time is known in advance.

After the climb

After the descent your legs will ache, which is normal. Eat something hot, drink tea, stretch your muscles. If you feel unwell, or dizziness or severe weakness does not pass, see a doctor. Prices for guides, lodging and transport are approximate and depend on the season, so check current figures locally.

Find other directions on the all routes page, and read about booking seats in the for passengers section.

Cover photo: Humoyun Mehridinov, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.