Institute of Solar Physics Located in the Parkent district of the Tashkent region, at the foot of the Western Tien Shan mountain range, this area is known for its clean air, mountain scenery, and the combination of natural landscapes with scientific and historical sites.
Parkent is located approximately 50 km from Tashkent, making it a convenient day trip. Thanks to its sunny climate and numerous clear days each year, a unique scientific complex, unparalleled in the region, was built here.
Excursion program to the Institute of Solar Physics
The one-day excursion begins with a departure from Tashkent towards the Parkent district. The road passes through the foothills of the Western Tien Shan and takes approximately 1–1.5 hours each way, making it a convenient day trip.
Upon arrival at the Institute of Solar Physics, the group heads to the complex's main features: the heliostat mirror field, the central tower, and the observation decks. The tour follows designated paths and includes an overview of the solar furnace's key engineering and architectural elements.
After visiting the complex and completing the excursion program, you will return to Tashkent along the same route.
Important to know
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is specifically designed to be accessible to those without hiking experience. The pace is relaxed, with no technically challenging sections or extreme climbs.
Do you need any special physical training?
No special training is required. All you need is reasonable physical fitness and the willingness to walk 14–15 km per day, with breaks.
Are there any dangerous sections on the route?
The routes follow established trails. There are river crossings on the first day, but they are shallow and safe if you follow the guide's instructions.
What to do if the weather changes?
The route is adapted to weather conditions. In case of rain or worsening weather, the guide may adjust the pace or individual sections of the route.
Do you need to carry everything with you?
No, this is not a self-guided trek. Accommodation is at a hotel, personal belongings remain in the rooms, and only a daypack is allowed on the trek.
How to book a tour?
- Leave a request on the website or contact us in any convenient way;
- Specify the date and format of the tour (individual or group);
- Receive confirmation and preparation recommendations;
- Arrive at the appointed time and we will arrange the rest!
What to take with you on a hike (equipment list)?
The hike doesn't require complex or specialized gear, but the right equipment will make the route comfortable and safe. Below is a recommended packing list.
Mandatory equipment
- Comfortable trekking backpack (20–30 l);
- Trekking shoes with good soles;
- Spare shoes and socks;
- Headwear (cap, Panama);
- Windproof jacket or light membrane;
- Comfortable clothes according to the weather (quick-drying).
Recommended
- Trekking poles (optional);
- Swimsuit/swimming trunks and a light towel (for swimming in the waterfalls);
- Sunscreen and glasses;
- Small first aid kit (personal medications, plasters);
- Water bottle or hydration pack;
- Light snack for the route;
- Documents and small items;
- Passport;
- Phone and power bank;
- Camera (optional).
It's important to remember that this isn't a self-guided hike—overnight stays are at a hotel, so you don't need to carry anything heavy or unnecessary with you.
What languages are the hikes conducted in?
Guides conduct hikes and provide accompaniment in the following languages: Russian and English. The language of accompaniment must be specified in advance when booking the tour.
Tour conditions
Tour starting point
Tashkent
Duration
Day 1
Price
from 45$ ☀️
Included in the price
- Transport services along the route;
- Services of a professional guide;
Paid separately
- Meals throughout the entire route
- Environmental fees
Additional information
- Prepayment 50%
Cost of a tour to the Institute of the Sun
1–3 people – car + guide (Chevrolet / BYD)
| Participants | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 | 150$ |
| 2 | 75$ |
| 3 | 60$ |
3–6 people – Hyundai Starex minivan
| Participants | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 3 | 85$ |
| 4 | 65$ |
| 5 | 55$ |
| 6 | 45$ |
Why visit the Solar Institute?
Institute of Solar Physics — is a unique scientific facility, unparalleled in Central Asia. Its main attraction is the Great Solar Furnace, one of the largest in the world, capable of concentrating solar energy to extreme temperatures.
A visit to the institute allows you to see how solar energy works in real scientific experiments, learn about the project's history, and appreciate the scale of the engineering solutions. The complex's architecture, enormous mirror fields, and futuristic structures make the tour particularly impressive, even for those unfamiliar with physics.
Its proximity to Tashkent and the day-trip format make the Institute of Solar Physics an ideal destination for an unusual excursion combining science, technology, and beautiful mountain scenery.
What is the Big Solar Furnace?
Large solar oven — is a unique scientific installation designed to concentrate sunlight onto a single point using a system of thousands of mirrors. The reflected rays are directed to a central receiver, where temperatures of several thousand degrees are achieved, comparable to those used in metallurgy and space exploration.
The solar furnace is used to study the properties of materials at extreme temperatures, testing heat-resistant alloys, ceramics, and components for aviation and space applications. The Parkent facility is considered one of the largest in the world and represents a complex engineering complex that combines science, architecture, and precise calculations.
During the tour, visitors will learn how the mirror system works, why this particular region was chosen for construction, and the role the Institute of Solar Physics plays in the development of solar energy and applied science.
Route characteristics
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Format: one-day excursion;
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Distance from Tashkent: ~50 km;
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Travel time: 1–1.5 hours one way;
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Route type: excursion, without trekking;
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Duration of visit: 2–3 hours on the complex’s territory.
Tour Features
- Visit one of the largest solar furnaces in the world;
- Inspection of the heliostat mirror field and the central tower;
- Popular science format with explanation of operating principles;
- Opportunity to combine an excursion with natural views of the Parkentsky district.
Difficulty level
The tour requires no physical training and is suitable for a wide audience. All movements take place within a designated area.
Seasonality
The best times to visit are spring, summer, and fall. Tours are available in clear weather. Winter visits are possible, weather permitting.