To the Sun Institute and Chimgan Mountains — a Science-and-Nature Day Trip from Tashkent

About this tour

This full-day experience combines two completely different sides of the Tashkent region: an extraordinary scientific complex and the mountain landscapes of the Western Tien Shan. In one day, discover the Sun Institute and the Great Solar Furnace near Parkent, then continue towards the Chimgan Mountains, where the urban landscape gives way to mountain roads, valleys and panoramic scenery. The first part of the journey focuses on the Sun Institute and the Great Solar Furnace, one of Uzbekistan’s most unusual scientific attractions. Located in the foothills of the Tien Shan near Parkent, the heliocomplex uses a large field of heliostats and a solar concentrator to focus sunlight and create extremely high temperatures for scientific research and materials testing. During the visit, explore the heliostat field, the solar concentrator and other parts of the scientific complex while learning how the Great Solar Furnace works and why Parkent was selected for this remarkable facility. Depending on the day and weather conditions, demonstrations of the solar installation may also be available. After the scientific part of the journey, the atmosphere changes completely as the route continues towards the Chimgan Mountains. The road passes through the foothills of the Western Tien Shan and gradually opens into wider mountain landscapes. There are opportunities to stop at scenic viewpoints, walk, enjoy the fresh mountain air and take photographs. Chimgan is one of the best-known mountain destinations within reach of Tashkent. Depending on the season and selected route, you can experience mountain valleys, rocky slopes, green landscapes and panoramic views. Summer is particularly pleasant for escaping the heat of Tashkent, spring brings fresh greenery and seasonal color, while autumn creates warm golden tones across the mountain slopes. The distinctive feature of this tour is the contrast between science and nature in a single day: begin with solar technology and scientific engineering in Parkent and finish among the mountains of Chimgan. It is an excellent choice for travelers who have explored Tashkent’s main attractions and want a different experience combining science, technology, mountains and the natural landscapes of Uzbekistan.