Varzob

Varzob

Varzob Valley – the route to Zarafshon Valley and Khujand city, is located on the magnificent Hisor mountain range with views of peaks of 4,000-5,000 metres. At weekends certain spots, particularly around the Varzob Lake, are unique for having a picnic and walking even a few kilometres up into the surrounding hills will guarantee you peace and quiet.

The pretty Gusgarf Waterfall is a vertical waterfall torrent crashing down 30m from the rock above and in late spring the route is further enhanced with a carpet of blood-red tulips. Gusgarf Falls is a particularly beautiful spot in spring when the flowers are in bloom.
A short walk from the main road brings you to the Siama Gorge, where the crystal blue waters rush steeply downhill from glaciers and through thickets of birch trees and fruit bushes before joining the Varzob below.
There is a fairly deep round pool here filled with ice-cold water, a fine spray from the waterfall and a current powerful enough to send one sprawling. Apart from the Gusgarf Waterfall the valleys of Siyoma, Ojuk, Kondara, Maikhura and Takob Rivers flowing into the Varzob River are also very popular. The unique beauty of these valleys is amazing. The slopes of the Ojuk Valley, stretching dozens of kilometres deep into the mountains to the north-east of Varzob, are covered with vines. There are also apple, cherry, and plum trees, but the main attraction in this valley is the numerous sycamores, known by the local population as Chanor. The climate here is mild. The river has many ponds in which it is very pleasant to swim, and sandy beaches where you can sunbathe. Moving up along the valley it is possible to get to the Simiganj (Golden Treasure) village which is famous for its grapes.

Some of the highlights are:
– Simply being in the mountains, similar to the Pamirs, enjoying the fresh air, the stunning views and a chance to see some traditional villages, including somewhere the people speak the ancient Sogdian language.
– Following the course of a clean, fast flowing river, with many Choikhona, restaurants and small parks along the banks.
– The chance to go on walks of anything from two hours to three days in dramatic scenery, and likely to be the only outsider there.