Agalyk Gorge "Devsharshara" Waterfall

About

Geography and natural features

Relief and elevations: The Agalyk mountain massif is the western foothill of the Zarafshan range. The altitude of the gorge ranges from 700–900 meters at the entrance to the valley to 1400–2100 meters at the headwaters of the say on the slopes of Mount Kemkutan (Kungur-Tau).

Agalyksay River: A turbulent mountain river fed by meltwater and springs. Along its bed stretches a green strip of tugai, walnut orchards and shady plane trees (chinars).

Climatic effect: Due to the difference in elevation and the proximity of forest massifs, in summer the temperature here is 5–8 °C lower than on the plain in Samarkand, and the air is notable for its dryness and clarity, which has a beneficial effect on the respiratory system.

Flora and fauna

Spring blossoming: From March to May the slopes of the gorge are covered with a continuous carpet of snowdrops, wild tulips, irises, eremurus and scarlet poppies.

Flora: Hawthorn, wild rose, pistachio, barberry, wild apple, almond and dozens of species of medicinal herbs (oregano, thyme, St. John's wort, wormwood) grow here in the wild.

Fauna: The gorge is home to mountain partridges (chukars), falcons, hawks, foxes, badgers and hares.

Sights and activities

Devsharshara Waterfall: A picturesque cascading waterfall about 8 meters high, located in the upper rocky branch of the gorge, where a popular walking trail leads from the village of Yukori Ohalik.

Karst caves and rock outcrops: Along the banks of the gorge there are weathered granite rocks, old adits and lime kilns (historically "Ohak" translates as "lime").

Hiking and trekking: Trails of varying difficulty have been laid — from easy walks along the river to graded ascents to panoramic ridges with a view of the Samarkand oasis.

Horse riding: Local residents offer horse rental and guided horseback riding along gentle mountain trails.

Sanatoriums and recreation areas: The area has climatic sanatoriums, children's camps, modern recreation areas with topchans over the water, swimming pools and guest houses.