Iskanderkul Lake

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Iskanderkul Lake

Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains

Iskanderkul Lake is one of Tajikistan’s most iconic landmarks, often considered a must-see for anyone visiting the country. Skipping a trip to Iskanderkul while in Tajikistan is like visiting Paris for the first time and not ascending the Eiffel Tower. Fortunately, reaching this popular destination is quite easy—it’s only 130 kilometers from the capital city, Dushanbe.

The name «Iskanderkul» combines «Iskander,» the Eastern name for Alexander the Great, and «kul,» which means «lake» in Turkic languages, thus translating to «Lake of Alexander the Great.» Although it’s unclear whether the legendary conqueror ever visited this place, several captivating legends connect his name to the lake.

One such legend tells of Alexander’s campaign against Sogdiana and Bactria, during which a mountain village fiercely resisted his conquest. In response, Alexander ordered the diversion of rivers to flood the defiant settlement, leading to the creation of Iskanderkul.

Another legend recounts that during one of his campaigns, Alexander paused at the lake’s shore, where his beloved horse, Bucephalus, fell ill after drinking the lake’s icy waters. After recovering, Bucephalus climbed a steep cliff and plunged into the lake. Alexander waited for days by the lake, and when Bucephalus did not return, he left a few horsemen behind and led his army onward. Since then, it is said that during a full moon, the ghostly figure of a white horse can be seen emerging from the lake, grazing along its picturesque shores.

Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains

From a scientific perspective, Iskanderkul is a dammed lake formed by a rockslide. Located at an elevation of 2,195 meters above sea level, the lake reaches a depth of 72 meters and covers an area of 3.4 square kilometers. Although the water temperature drops sharply just 10 meters from the shore, many visitors enjoy swimming along the rocky beaches during the summer months.

Iskanderkul is the largest lake in the Fann Mountains, sprawling across a plateau at 2,200 meters above sea level. Its shores are surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the lake’s serene, mirror-like surface. However, despite the abundance of water and the stunning landscape, the area lacks lush greenery. Only near the mouths of the three rivers that feed the lake do dark groves of trees break the otherwise light-toned slopes.

Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Iskanderkul Lake, Fann Mountains
Road to Iskanderkul
Waterfall near Iskanderkul

In winter, the lake’s waters are often frozen, though a flowing stream usually keeps the central part of the lake ice-free. The water remains cold year-round, but in the summer, swimming is possible along the shore and in sheltered coves. The water is a slightly cloudy blue-green, with an average depth of 72 meters. Small fish, such as bullheads, can be found in the lake.

In addition to Iskanderkul itself, the surrounding area boasts several other attractions. Nearby is Snake Lake, named by tourists who assumed its warmer waters would attract many snakes. Another highlight is the 43-meter «Fann Niagara» waterfall, located on a river flowing out of Iskanderkul. There is also a cliff bearing the inscription «Ruskie, 1870,» left by an expedition led by the famous scientist and explorer Alexei Fedchenko.

A day trip from Dushanbe to Iskanderkul is well worth the effort, and the memories of this beautiful lake will last a lifetime!