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Dashman State Nature Reserve
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The Dashman State Nature Reserve is located in the Jalal-Abad region of Kyrgyzstan and is world-renowned for its unique walnut-fruit forests. Established in 2012, the reserve covers an area of nearly 8,000 hectares within the Fergana mountain range. These forests are considered relicts from the Tertiary period and host an enormous genetic diversity of wild fruit trees, including apples, pears, and pistachios. The primary goal of the protection is to preserve these natural resources and the associated fauna. The area is rich in biodiversity, providing a habitat for numerous bird species and mammals. The walnut forests of Dashman are not only ecologically valuable but also hold great cultural and historical significance for the local population. Scientific research here focuses on the sustainable use and protection of these globally unique forest formations.
- Location: Kyrgyzstan
- Nearby: Jalal-Abad (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -8 | -5 | 2 | 8 | 13 | 18 | 21 | 20 | 15 | 7 | 0 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 23 | 32 | 40 | 47 | 33 | 20 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 26 | 37 | 29 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The extensive walnut forests of Kyrgyzstan are best explored in late spring or early autumn, when the temperatures are comfortable for hiking and the natural environment showcases its most spirited and beautiful colors.
Best time of day
Early morning hours provide the best light for exploring the ancient trees and significantly increase the chances of spotting elusive wildlife foraging for food within the protective undergrowth of the dense forest.
Etiquette
To protect the fragile ecosystem of these unique forest areas, visitors must strictly remain on marked trails and are absolutely prohibited from removing any plants, nuts, or branches from the state nature reserve.
What to bring
Sturdy, ankle-supporting footwear is absolutely mandatory for the uneven terrain in the forests; additionally, warm layered clothing is highly recommended since the mountain weather in Kyrgyzstan can change very rapidly.
Getting there
The remote protected areas are frequently accessible only via unpaved and rugged mountain roads, making the use of a reliable off-road vehicle and potentially the assistance of a knowledgeable local guide highly advisable.
What to expect
Take plenty of time to fully enjoy the silence and majesty of the ancient forest; the most rewarding observations usually occur when you remain completely quiet and carefully listen to the natural sounds of the surrounding environment.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was officially established on July 12, 2012.
- The total area covers approximately 7,958 hectares.
- It protects the largest natural walnut forests on Earth.
- The age of some walnut trees is estimated at over 200 years.
- Over 130 plant species have been identified within the reserve.
- It is located in the Bazar-Korgon district near the village of Arslanbob.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Daschman-Naturreservat?
It protects one of the world's largest natural walnut forest areas, famous for its biodiversity and genetic resources.
Can you collect walnuts in the reserve?
In core zones, collecting is prohibited, but in buffer zones, local communities traditionally harvest the crop in autumn.
When does the forest have the best autumn colors?
The forest is most magnificent in October when the leaves of walnut and fruit trees turn golden yellow.
Are there hiking trails?
There are simple paths used by locals. For visitors, it is recommended to hire a local guide from Bazar-Korgon.
What is the condition of the roads to the reserve?
Roads are often unpaved and difficult after rain. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly advised.
Dashman State Nature Reserve: where is it located?
Dashman State Nature Reserve is located in Kyrgyzstan.
Dashman State Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Dashman State Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Dashman State Nature Reserve is located in the Jalal-Abad region of Kyrgyzstan and is world-renowned for its unique walnut-fruit forests.
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Nearby cities
Jalal-Abad
One of the largest cities in the south of the country, known for its hot springs and mineral waters.
Tash-Kumyr
An industrial city on the Naryn River, known for its coal mining and hydroelectric power plants.
Toktogul
A city north of the huge Toktogul Reservoir, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges.
Kochkor-Ata
A city in the Jalal-Abad Region whose economy is traditionally dominated by oil and gas extraction.
Kerben
A small town in the Aksy District, located in a picturesque mountainous landscape in the west of the country.
Kazarman
A highly isolated mining settlement in inner Kyrgyzstan, often cut off from the rest of the country in winter.
Mailuu-Suu
A former Soviet closed city, famous for its uranium mining during the Cold War.
Suusamyr Valley
A vast high-altitude plateau at 2,200 meters, famous for its green pastures and traditional Kumis production.
Sary-Chelek Lake
A stunning high-altitude lake within a UNESCO biosphere reserve, famous for its crystal-clear waters and dense walnut forests.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Arslanbob Walnut Forest
The massive walnut forests of Arslanbob are a unique natural heritage, stretching across gentle hills.
Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station
The largest hydroelectric power station in the country, located on the Naryn River.
🗺️
Fergana Valley Cotton Fields
In the warm plains of southern Kyrgyzstan, extensive cotton fields dominate the landscape.
Kambar-Ata-2 Hydroelectric Power Station
A modern hydroelectric project to increase Kyrgyzstan's energy capacity.
Mailuu-Suu Lightbulb Factory
One of the largest lightbulb factories in Central Asia.
Kurpsai Hydroelectric Power Station
A large hydroelectric power station on the Naryn River in Kyrgyzstan.
Tash-Kumyr Hydroelectric Power Station
Hydroelectric power plant on the Naryn River, contributing to the region's energy production.
Shamaldy-Say Hydroelectric Power Station
Another power plant of the Naryn cascade in Kyrgyzstan.