The state of Uzbekistan consists not only of remote cities, ancient and historical madrasas, spectacular mosques and minarets, but also varied climatic and natural landscapes such as the arid deserts of Kyzyl Kum and Karakum, the picturesque snow-capped mountains of Tian Shan-Pamir; ridges, rivers and lakes, dark pine forests, flower-covered steppes in spring, the Aral Sea, and famous ancient caves with petroglyphs carved on rocks, etc. The Nuratau Mountains are one of these impressive natural monuments that today have a significant increase in the flow of tourists and are recognized as a new destination of tourist interest.

The highest point of the Nuratau Ridge is Mount Hayot Bakhshi, which is 2,169 meters high. However, although this mountain range is not very high, it attracts many tourists with its rich history, unique monuments, clean and pleasant climate and healing springs, its wonderful towns and people.

Historians and archaeologists have excavated 20 km² of the Sarmishsay gorge in the western part of the Nuratau range. They found around 10,000 petroglyphs in the area. It is unknown when these petroglyphs first appeared on the rocks of Sarmishsay Gorge. However, scientists maintain that the first settlements of human beings appeared in the Paleolithic period in the Sarmishsay gorge (about 300-25 thousand years BC). Today, the Sarmishsay Gorge has become a UNESCO-recognized national petroglyph park.

The Nuratau Mountains offer the perfect escape for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you wish to reconnect with nature, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, or experience spiritual tranquility, this hidden gem in Uzbekistan has something for everyone.

Not far from the mountains lies Lake Aydarkul, the largest lake at the northern foot of the Nuratau Range. This stunning oasis is surrounded by vast grasslands and traditional nomadic settlements, where travelers can witness herds of camels and authentic yurt camps—remnants of a centuries-old way of life.

Located in the Kyzyl Kum Desert, the largest desert in Central Asia, these camps offer an unforgettable glimpse into the traditions of ancient nomadic tribes. A camel ride through the peaceful, golden dunes is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Visitors can also stay in local guesthouses, where they are warmly welcomed by Uzbek families, participate in traditional cooking, and even try their hand at weaving handmade Uzbek and suzani rugs—a cherished craft passed down through generations.

NURATA

One of the Uzbekistan's oldest cities, Nurata is the largest city in the Navoi region of the republic and is steeped in history, mythology and cultural heritage. According to local legends, the city's origins dates back to the time of Alexander the Great, who once passed through this land. Later, the city was renamed "Nurata" after the famous Sheikh Abulhasan Nuri (9th century), who lived here. One of the lines of the Great Silk Road passed over Nurata. In the past, it had strategic military importance and was an important commercial center. The "Nur" fortress has long been the second gateway to the oases of Bukhara and Samarkand after Jizzakh. Nurata (ancient ¨Nur¨) is a remote town in northern Bukhara, located on the edge of a nomadic and culturally settled area. The local Oghuz Turks settled first in Khorasan and then in the Asia Minor peninsula before the Nuratah oasis and founded the historically famous Seljuk state (11th century). Many caravans stopped at Nurata along the old stone road. Genghis Khan's troops entered Nuratah in the same way (January 1220) on their way to Bukhara. That is why the stone path is also called "Khan Path". Nuratah was an important strategic stronghold for the Samanids and beyond.

The immense wealth of Nurata is its marble quarry. The semi-finished and finished products of the industrial company "Nurotamarmar" in the city are well known not only in the Uzbek market, but also in the world market.

Remains of the ancient fortress of the Nur (light) in Nurata (also known as Alexandria, Alexander's fortress), the walls of the defensive wall

(around 4th-3rd centuries BC), ¨Chilustun¨ Mosque (early 9th-20th centuries), Great Dome Mosque (16th century) Mosques, ¨Sayidota¨, ¨Oqmaschid¨, ¨Bargsoz¨ (late 19th-early 20th centuries) and others have been preserved as architectural and historical monuments.

The mysterious nature of the Nurata spring is due to its natural location and the healing properties of the spring. Additionally, the phosphorus content of spring water makes the water and fish sparkle, creating an attractive appearance. The Nurata spring water flows through thousands of kilometers of underground passages at a speed of 290 liters per second. The temperature of the spring water is 19.5 ºC above zero in winter and summer.

For thousands of years, the freezing of the flowing spring has never been observed, it is a mineralized drinking water. This water was found to contain gold, which is a cure for gastrointestinal diseases. It has long been known that iodine in water cures goiter, and rare bromine cures neurological diseases. Its silver solution ensures good water retention.