The Chatkal mountain range rises abruptly an hour east of Tashkent, and the Chimgan Highlands are the easiest escape from the capital's summer heat. A Soviet-era cable car still runs up Kumbel Peak, and hiking trails range from easy valley walks to multi-day treks toward Charvak Reservoir. Winter turns the same slopes into Uzbekistan's main ski resort.
Loved the food nearby just as much as the sights themselves.
Quieter than we expected for how well-known it is. Early morning is the way to go.
A bit touristy at the main spots but wander two streets over and it's completely different.