Zomin Mountains
UzbekistanNational Commission of the Republic of Uzbekistan for UNESCO
Jizzakh region
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Description
The territory consists of two sites: Zomin State Reserve and Zomin National Park, located in the northern slope of Turkistan mountain range and bordering upon each other.
The territory is a mountain chain with a well-defined belt: middle and high mountains, located at heights of 1760 - 3500 metres above sea level. The southern part of the Reserve occupies steep slopes of the Turkestan Ridge, dissected by deep gorges; the northern part has a smoother relief with terraces covered with a thick thickness of marl and loess-like loams.
The Turkestan ridge forms several branches that have independent names: the Chumkartau, Malguzar, Kukh ridges. The northern part is located on the foothill plain, which has a smoother topography with terraces covered with a thick layer of marls and loess-like loams.
Located mainly on the northern slopes of the Turkestan Ridge, the territory of the Zomin National Park and Zomin State Reserve covers absolute above sea levels from 1000 to 4030 meters (Shaukartau Peak or Shavkartau - “Cold Mountain”). Other above sea levels include Bazarkhanym (3401 meters), Guralash (3566 meters), Chandyr (3411 meters), Coburgen (3925 meters), Aktashtau (3410 meters), Tokalichuka (3809 meters), Aktash (3145 meters), Sharralak (2145 meters), Chakmaktash (2519 meters), Devasan (2439 meters), Kulsu (2745 meters), Kuyan (2612 meters) and Bishkent (3247 meters).
In the center of the described territory is the Sufa plateau with its unique relief (table-flat surface) and an average height of 2400 meters. Here flow such mountain streams as Aldashman (Allaismansay), Baikungursay, Guralash with tributaries - Angirey and Kyzyltorisai, Ettikechuv (Kulsay or Kulsu, Julsay, Tuyuksay, Obikul, Aktash, Chandyrsai, Kyzylmazar, Kungelak, Kashkasu, Coburgen, Kattashir, Mirzavalang and Uryukli and its tributaries Sharyldak (Shariklak) and Usmani. All these mountain streams are tributaries of two rivers - Sanzar and Zominsu.
Justification of Outstanding Universal Value
There are three vegetation belts on the territory of the Reserve: mountain steppe, forest and high-mountain (subalpine).
The mountain steppe belt is located at an altitude of 1300 to 2300 metres above sea level. The forest belt starts at an altitude of 2100 metres and ends at an altitude of 2700 metres. Three species of juniper grow together on the territory of the reserve: Zerafshan, hemispherical and Turkestan juniper. Hemispherical juniper forms mixed plantations in the upper part of slopes with Turkestan juniper, and in the lower part with Zerafshan juniper.
In the territory, at present, more than 700 species of higher vascular plants from 70 families, 280 genera, of which 13 species are included in the Red Book of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 48 species are endemics of the western part of the Turkestan Range.
Unique objects on the territory of the Zomin State Reserve and Zomin National Park include the following: the Chortangi canyons (deep erosional incisions) of the Ettikechuv tributaries (in the area of the Kyzylmazar and Sufa tracts), the Kyrk-Kyz rock formations, the picturesque Sufa plateau, a huge walnut tree locally called “Bobo-Yongok”, the remains of Myk (Mych) stone fortresses and buildings near Ettikechuv, extensive juniper forests and individual trees of bizarre shape.
Criterion (vii ): The Zomin Mountains, majestically rising on the borders of the Uzbek region, are a true wonder of nature, full of multifaceted beauty and aesthetic value. The purity of air and incredible biodiversity make this region a unique corner of the Earth, where every resident and guest can feel unity with nature. The Zomin Mountains are not just a geographical marker, but a cradle of the spirit, where the beauty of nature is clothed in timeless values and inspires creation. Zomin State Reserve, located in the picturesque mountains, amazes with its natural beauty and impressive aesthetic value. This protected corner of the earth is home to unique ecosystems where flora and fauna complement each other, creating a harmonious unity. Green hills covered with relic trees, as well as flowering meadows, meandering streams attract not only local but also international nature lovers. The reserve is famous for its diverse landscapes - from high alpine meadows to deep gorges with waterfalls reflecting the sun's rays like sparkling gems. The aesthetic value of the Zomin reserve is manifested not only in its natural beauties, but also in the spiritual connection of people with this land. Local residents, who have preserved traditions and customs, strive to cherish nature, creating a unique culture that fits into the grandeur of the surrounding world. Thus, the Zomin State Reserve becomes not just a natural site, but a symbol of the unity of man and nature, inspiring the preservation of this fabulous place for future generations.
Criterion (ix): Zomin State Reserve is a unique natural area where one can observe the evolution and development of various biological processes. The main objects of protection are high-mountain juniper forests, as well as rare and endangered species of animals and plants. Three vegetation belts are distinguished on the territory of the reserve: mountain steppe, forest belt and 25subalpine zone. The flora of the reserve includes more than 700 species of higher vascular plants, of which 13 species are included in the Red Book of Uzbekistan. Among them one can find such rare plants as aconite, bezremennik and valerian. The fauna of the reserve is also rich and diverse, including Himalayan brown bear, bearded vulture and black stork. The reserve has a significant role in preserving biodiversity and studying evolutionary processes in high-mountain ecosystems. Scientific research is conducted here to protect and restore rare species, as well as to study the dynamics of ecosystems and the impact of climate change.
Criterion (x): The Zomin mountains have a significant role in preserving in-situ biodiversity, providing natural conditions for the life and reproduction of many species of flora and fauna. The Zomin State Reserve is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. Among the endangered plants are several species from the Apiaceae family, such as Lomatocarpakorovinii and Ferula sumbul. These species are extremely rare and require special attention for their conservation. In terms of fauna, the reserve is home to rare species such as the Himalayan brown bear, bearded vulture and black stork. These animals are also endangered and need protection of their natural habitat.
Statements of authenticity and/or integrity
The territory represents the most kept and dense juniper forests in the region. The territory is under protection of various degrees since 1913 that has allowed preserving the unique natural communities. Both of properties protect ecosystems from the ground zone of mountains up to water-separate crest of the Turkistan ridge that provides integrity of natural conditions in all high-altitude zones.
Comparison with other similar properties
The Zomin Mountains are a unique property that offers stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Zomin Mountains rise majestically, distinguished by their striking peaks and vibrant ecosystems. While awe-inspiring in their own right, a comparison with other mountainous regions reveals both their uniqueness and their similarities to celebrated mountain ranges like the Rockies in North America and the Andes in South America.
The Zomin Mountains, with their dramatic granite cliffs and lush, high-altitude meadows, are often likened to the iconic Whistler peaks of the Canadian Rockies. While the Rockies boast extensive ski resorts and deep fjords, Zomin features untouched terrains that attract hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking pristine wilderness. Both ranges benefit from diverse flora and fauna, but Zomin’s endemic species—like the elusive Zomin ibex—offer a specific charm not found in the more industrialized profiles of the Rockies.
In contrast to the soaring heights of the Andes, characterized by their rugged isolation and the Inca Trail's famous paths, the Zomin Mountains provide a cosier, intertwining network of trails that promote accessibility while still offering a sense of adventure. Comparable in biodiversity to the Andes, where tropical ecosystems thrive in high altitudes, the Zomin Mountains also serve up a feast of environmental diversity - alpine meadows morph into ancient coniferous forests as one decends, revealing a trajectory of life forms rich in cultural heritage and ecological complexity.
As we delve further into comparing the Zomin with the Alps - the epitome of European highlands - we notice that the Zomin exudes a less commercialized atmosphere. While the Alps are adorned with charming villages that attract tourism, Zomin maintains a serene state, with traditional communities interlinked with nature, where the secrets of old are whispered among vibrant market stalls. Here, agriculture thrives harmoniously amid its towering peaks, reminiscent yet distinct from the famed terraced vineyards found in vineyards nested against the slopes of the Alps.
The Zomin Mountains stand as a strikingly beautiful region that resonates with the spirit of other iconic mountain ranges, marrying breathtaking landscapes with a rich tapestry of life. Each range speaks its own language of earth and stone, yet they collectively narrate the profound splendor of our planet’s diverse topographies. Whether it's the undisturbed allure of Zomin or the well-trodden paths of the Rockies, the intoxicating call of the mountains deserves reverence, inviting us to explore both their wildness and their unity.