Uzbekistan, Tashkent and the Bostanlyk mountain region are taking another step towards expanding Central Asia’s tourism industry as Uzbekistan and China deepen their partnership through new infrastructure, investment and digital development initiatives. Recent discussions between Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee, and Ji Xiaodong, Chairman of the Tourism Chamber of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, focused on improving mountain tourism infrastructure, introducing modern cableway systems, attracting investment and adopting advanced digital planning technologies. The cooperation reflects Uzbekistan’s broader ambition to diversify its tourism offering beyond its world-famous Silk Road cities by strengthening year-round mountain and nature-based tourism.
For decades, Uzbekistan has attracted visitors with historic destinations such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. Now, attention is increasingly shifting towards another side of the country—its mountains, lakes and outdoor recreation areas. Could these developments transform Uzbekistan into one of Central Asia’s leading all-season tourism destinations?
Mountain tourism moves into the spotlight
Uzbekistan continues expanding its tourism strategy beyond cultural heritage.
The latest discussions place particular emphasis on developing mountain tourism through modern infrastructure capable of supporting both domestic and international visitors.
Among the most significant proposals is the development of new mountain cableway systems, designed to improve access to scenic landscapes, hiking areas, ski facilities and year-round recreation zones.
Such projects could make mountain destinations more accessible while encouraging longer visitor stays and greater tourism spending.
Cableways support year-round tourism
Modern cableway systems have become an increasingly important feature of mountain destinations around the world.
Beyond transporting skiers during winter, cableways provide convenient access to panoramic viewpoints, walking trails, cycling routes, family attractions and nature experiences throughout the year.
For Uzbekistan, this approach aligns closely with its objective of developing all-season tourism.
Improved mountain accessibility could strengthen visitor numbers during both summer and winter while supporting investment in accommodation, restaurants and outdoor recreation.
Bostanlyk region offers growing tourism opportunities
Much of Uzbekistan’s mountain tourism development is centred on the Bostanlyk District, located northeast of Tashkent.
The region already includes several of the country’s leading resort destinations.
Among the best-known are:
- Amirsoy Mountain Resort
- Chimgan
- Beldersay
These destinations offer skiing, hiking, mountain scenery, adventure tourism and resort accommodation throughout different seasons.
Additional recreation areas include Aydarkul Lake, Tudakul and the Bukhara Desert Oasis & Spa tourism cluster, highlighting Uzbekistan’s increasingly diverse tourism portfolio.
Chinese expertise supports infrastructure development
China’s experience in mountain tourism infrastructure forms another important part of the cooperation.
Over recent decades, Chinese companies have developed cableway systems across mountain resorts, national parks and scenic destinations throughout the country.
This technical knowledge can assist Uzbekistan in planning infrastructure that balances visitor access with environmental management and long-term operational efficiency.
The discussions also considered involving experienced Chinese specialists during project planning and implementation.
Investment and project delivery gain attention
Beyond infrastructure itself, the two sides also discussed strengthening tourism project management.
Chinese specialists may participate in Uzbekistan’s tourism project offices, supporting planning, feasibility studies, technical assessments and investment coordination.
Effective project management plays an important role in ensuring tourism developments progress efficiently while meeting environmental and commercial objectives.
Improved coordination between investors, government agencies and technical experts could also help accelerate future tourism developments.
Digital technologies modernise tourism planning
Technology featured prominently during the discussions.
The partnership highlighted the potential use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for tourism development.
These technologies allow planners to visualise infrastructure projects, assess terrain, evaluate environmental conditions and optimise visitor movement before construction begins.
GIS also assists authorities in mapping tourism zones, transport networks, land use and visitor facilities, supporting more sustainable destination management.
The adoption of digital planning tools reflects broader international trends towards smarter tourism infrastructure development.
Silk Road tourism expands beyond historic cities
Uzbekistan has traditionally been recognised for its Silk Road heritage.
Historic destinations including Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva continue attracting visitors interested in Islamic architecture, ancient trade routes and cultural history.
The latest cooperation with China seeks to complement this heritage tourism by introducing stronger nature-based experiences.
By combining historic cities with mountain resorts, outdoor recreation and wellness tourism, Uzbekistan can diversify its tourism economy while appealing to broader international markets.
Accessibility strengthens regional tourism
Improved mountain infrastructure may also enhance regional connectivity.
Better visitor access encourages the development of accommodation, restaurants, transport services and recreational businesses surrounding mountain destinations.
For travellers arriving in Tashkent, shorter transfer times and improved facilities create opportunities to combine urban sightseeing with mountain holidays during the same itinerary.
This integrated approach supports both domestic and international tourism growth.
Nearby airports and transport
Nearest Airport
Tashkent International Airport (TAS)
- Approximately 95 km (59 miles) from the Bostanlyk tourism region.
- Around 1.5 to 2 hours by road, depending on the destination within the district.
Railway Access
- Tashkent Railway Station serves as the principal rail hub for international and domestic services.
- Visitors typically continue to mountain resorts by road transfer, taxi or organised tour.
Metro
- Tashkent Metro operates within the capital city.
- No metro or tram services extend into the Bostanlyk mountain region.
Key Stats
- Uzbekistan and China are strengthening tourism cooperation through infrastructure and investment initiatives.
- Discussions include modern mountain cableway development.
- Focus areas include Amirsoy, Chimgan and Beldersay.
- Digital planning technologies such as BIM and GIS will support tourism development.
- Mountain tourism forms part of Uzbekistan’s strategy to diversify beyond Silk Road heritage tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Uzbekistan and China expanding tourism cooperation?
The partnership focuses on improving mountain tourism infrastructure, attracting investment, introducing digital planning technologies and supporting sustainable tourism development.
Which mountain destinations are expected to benefit?
Amirsoy Mountain Resort, Chimgan and Beldersay in the Bostanlyk region are among the key destinations highlighted during the discussions.
What technologies will be used?
The cooperation includes the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to improve tourism planning and infrastructure management.
Conclusion
Uzbekistan’s expanding tourism partnership with China signals a broader shift in the country’s tourism strategy, moving beyond its renowned Silk Road heritage towards year-round mountain, adventure and nature-based experiences. By combining investment, cableway development, digital planning technologies and technical expertise, the two countries are laying the groundwork for more accessible and sustainable tourism destinations. As infrastructure improvements progress across regions such as Bostanlyk, Amirsoy and Chimgan, Uzbekistan is positioning itself to attract a wider range of international travellers seeking both cultural discovery and outdoor recreation in the heart of Central Asia.
