Chor Chinor Garden in Urgut

Chor Chinor Garden

Hidden in the foothills near the small ancient city of Urgut, about 50 km southeast of Samarkand, lies one of Uzbekistan’s most mystical places — the Chor Chinor garden. The name “Chor Chinor” translates from Tajik as “four sycamore trees,” and this grove is wrapped in legends and local folklore, drawing both locals and travelers seeking peace and inspiration.

Ancient Sycamore Giants

Chor Chinor is famous for its massive and ancient sycamore trees, the oldest of which is over 1,160 years old. Even the youngest tree in the grove is estimated to be around 600 years old. Among these natural giants is a truly remarkable tree with a trunk circumference of 16 meters. The most fascinating secret lies inside this colossal sycamore — a hollow that opens into a hidden chamber behind a carved wooden door.

Inside the hollow trunk, visitors discover a small room with a minimalistic collection of furniture. Despite its age and hollow core, the tree remains very much alive, continuing to grow through the centuries. It is said that, long ago, this tree once served as a Sufi school and a spiritual retreat for generations of dervishes.

A Place of Legends and Spiritual Peace

Walking through the garden feels like stepping into another world. A unique aura fills the grove, creating a sense of tranquility and mystery. Many visitors come here seeking solace, hoping to find answers to personal struggles or simply to experience the serene atmosphere.

Legends abound about Chor Chinor. One popular story tells of a mighty batir — a local hero — who stole a magical stone from evil spirits and buried it on the site where the garden now stands. As soon as the stone was placed, springs of water burst forth from the ground. The hero then planted four sycamore cuttings, each brought to him by a beautiful bird. These trees thrived, growing over centuries into the magnificent grove visitors see today.

Today, Chor Chinor is cherished as a natural and spiritual landmark, offering a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s ancient traditions and the enduring power of nature.