State Reserve "Surkhan"
2025-05-01 00:00:00 / Nature reserves
The Surkhan State Reserve spans an area of 23,406.4 hectares, situated along the eastern slopes of the Kohitang mountain range, with elevations ranging from 850 to 3137 meters above sea level.
Located within the Sherabad district of the Surkhandarya region, it shares its western border with Turkmenistan. The reserve encompasses a protected (buffer) zone covering 17,090.6 hectares.
Noteworthy within the reserve is the ecotourism hub of Zaravutsay, which attracts both international and domestic visitors.
Geologically, the area features Paleozoic rock formations, while its topography boasts peaks reaching up to 3137 meters, exemplified by the prominent Ayribobo summit. The reserve's waterways originate from snowmelt and high-altitude sources, with major streams including Kampirtepa, Sherjan, and Tangidarasay. Notable water features include various waterfalls, with the "Machillisoy Waterfall" standing out at a height of 13 meters.
The reserve's diverse flora comprises 807 species across 80 plant families. Likewise, its fauna is rich, hosting 194 vertebrate species, including 26 mammal species such as argali, Bukhara urial, and Turkestan lynx, as well as 137 bird species, 24 reptile species, 2 amphibian species, and 25 species classified as endangered.
In the buffer zone, the 395.6-hectare Zaravutsay ecotourism area is under development, featuring amenities such as campgrounds, yurts, catering facilities, and eco-trails to enhance visitor experience.
Adjacent settlements, including Khomkon, Tangi, and Khatak, are proximate to the protected area. Accommodation options are available within the Sherabad district center, approximately 50-60 kilometers from the reserve.
Accessibly positioned, the reserve lies 120-130 kilometers from the regional hub of Termez and 50-70 kilometers from the district center.
Visit time:
Weekdays from 12:00 to 20:00 in summer (until 17:00 in winter) Weekends and holidays from 09:00 to 21:00 (until 17:00 in winter)
Address: House 1, Ogahi Street, Sherabad city, Surkhandarya region, Republic of Uzbekistan.
website: www.natureareas.uz