Asraf Village
Tucked away in the midst of the numerous valleys of the Nurata Mountains, away from the hustle and bustle of cities, lies the serene village of Asraf. Its residents lead lives that have seen little alteration over the centuries - farming for subsistence, raising livestock, harvesting crops, and heating homes with firewood. Modernity's presence is modest here, noted only in a few cars and the faint glimmer of electric lights in their homes. All of this is enveloped in the pristine embrace of the mountain's natural landscape.
The history of Asraf village trails back hundreds of years, with the exact timeline of its first inhabitants lost to time. Yet, the remnants of ancient houses, now reduced to stone foundations not far from the current settlement, are a silent testament to its age-old existence. This quiet and comforting village would have stayed a hidden gem if it weren't for the bountiful fruits that grow in its vicinity.
In 2009, fruit juice connoisseurs visited Asraf village to sample the local apples, apricots, and peaches. Among these were German nationals who were utterly charmed by the local lifestyle and natural beauty. They suggested the establishment of a guesthouse in the village to promote ecotourism. Following this, in 2010, the German Embassy and the international organization GIZ kick-started a project aimed at fostering tourism in Asraf and the neighboring villages. They trained locals in hospitality and the various nuances of the tourism industry. This resulted in a steady stream of international visitors passionate about ethno- and ecotourism beginning in 2011.
Apart from the delicious fruits, Asraf village is also blessed with a favorable microclimate. While the summer temperatures in Tashkent or Samarkand can cross 40°C (104°F), Asraf remains a cool retreat, about 10 degrees cooler. This natural air-conditioning makes it hard for many guests to leave the village in summer. Springtime brings a lush green canvas and the mountainsides awash with blooming flowers. Autumn is a season of plenty, as it showers the village with an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Winter, however, is harsh with its bone-chilling cold.
Home to over 600 people residing in about 35 households, Asraf village buzzes with authentic rural life. Each household usually includes 3-4 families of close kin, engaged in farming and herding. While some adults work as drivers, teachers, or shopkeepers in the nearby areas, over a hundred children, the older ones among them assisting with household chores and sheep herding, contribute to the village's vibrancy.
The only guesthouse in Asraf, "Yakhshigul," was opened by the Sharipov family in 2010. The entire family participates in tourism operations, from conducting village tours and mountain hikes to cooking meals and maintaining guest rooms. The modest amenities at the guesthouse enable visitors to truly experience and appreciate the charm of simple rural life.
Guests at Asraf can witness the making of pilaf, baking of bread, and the upkeep of vegetable gardens and orchards. They also learn about livestock rearing. Donkey or horseback rides and mountain hikes add a thrilling flavor to the stay. A mountain trek from Asraf village is an absolute must-do, presenting breathtaking views of the Nurata Mountains, ancient petroglyphs, and a stunning panorama from the mountain crest. If lucky, one can even spot the sparkling surface of Lake Aidarkul on a clear day from the highest point of the trek.
A visit to Asraf village offers a splendid chance to explore the distinct nature of the Nurata Mountains, bordering the hot Kyzylkum desert and the vast Lake Aidarkul. The village visit, being 200 km away from Samarkand and 300 km from Bukhara, adds an enriching dimension to a broader journey through Uzbekistan's ancient cities, unveiling new facets of the country.