The Surkhan State Nature Reserve was established in 1986. The reserve, consisting of two separate parts, is located on the territory of the Sherabad and Termez districts of the Surkhandarya region. The total area is 24,554 hectares, most of the reserve is located at an altitude of up to 3,157 meters above sea level in the southwestern spurs of the Gissar Range. Of these, 12,109.2 hectares are covered by forest. The territory of the reserve is divided into 7 sections, 10 districts and 14 quarters. Each section includes certain districts and quarters.

The reserve has 807 plant species, 47 of which are listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan. In addition, there are 26 species of mammals, 137 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles, 2 species of aquatic and terrestrial animals, 5 species of fish. The total number of animal species is 194, 25 of which are listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan.

Among the protected animals of the reserve, 18 species are listed in the IUCN Red List, including markhors, Bukhara ibex and other animals.