Zaamin Mountains

Zaamin Mountains

Zaamin Mountains

The unique Zaamin Mountains are rightfully considered one of the most picturesque - their vast hillsides at an altitude of 1700-3000 meters are densely planted with coniferous and juniper forests on hundreds of hectares, and the air is fragrant with the rich aroma of tree resin. No other region of Central Asia has the same natural wealth, so Zaamin is called the "Switzerland of Central Asia."

Zaamin belongs to the northwestern part of the Turkestan Range of the Pamir-Alay mountain system and mainly occupies the territory of Tajikistan. In Uzbekistan, they are located in the Jizzak Region, south of the town of the same name. The highest point is on Mount Shaukartau and makes 4000 m.

Due to the natural features, they differ from Nurata and Chimgan mountains by specific climatic conditions contributing to recreation. For several decades, the most famous sanatorium (recreation facility with medical services) in the country called Zaamin is found here. It specializes in the treatment of the nervous and respiratory systems. Even a simple walk on its territory can serve as an effective preventive measure for acute respiratory diseases.

Zaamin Mountains are a protected area. They are divided into two sections: Zaamin State Reserve and Zaamin National Park.

Zaamin National Park was established in 1976 to preserve juniper arrays. Previously, it was called the People's Park. 16.7 thousand hectares of the total area of 24 000 hectares are covered by juniper groves: on the highlands (from 2500 m) it is Turkestan juniper, below is the hemispherical juniper, and the foothills are adorned with the Zerafshan species. 18 representatives of the flora of Zaamin Park are included in the IUCN Red List, while the total number of plants is over 700 species. The animal world is equally diverse - it was chosen as a permanent home to wolves, Siberian ibex, Tolai hares, porcupines, martens, and steppe polecats.

The proximity of the border limits tourist opportunities, and permits must be prepared in advance for admission to several areas. In addition to ecotourism, the foothills of Zaamin in the Pishagar area also have holy sites, including Khujai Serob-Ota, and a cave and gorge attracting excursion and cognitive component.