The name of the lake in Tajikistan is derived from the name "Iskander" (meaning "Alexander") and the word "kul" (translated as "lake"). Local legends suggest that the reservoir was named after the Great Alexander, who is believed to have visited it during his campaign to India from Central Asia.

The lake, situated in the stunning Fann Mountains, boasts a rich and storied history. It is believed that the lake was named after the commander the Great Alexander.

The lake is located in the northern part of the country, in the Sugd region. The distance from the capital of Tajikistan is more than 140 kilometres along a high-altitude and relatively good highway. The route offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains and the deep blue of the sky. This untouched territory harbours remarkable attractions, including the renowned Lake Iskanderkul. The region is characterised by the presence of magnificent blue lakes, fast-flowing mountain rivers and picturesque forests.

Iskanderkul, widely regarded as the heart of the Fann Mountains, is enveloped by several peaks that soar to heights of over five thousand metres. These include Bodhona, Chapdara, Maria, Mirali and Zindon. The highest of these is Chimtarga, which reaches an impressive 5,487 metres.

Lake Iskanderkul is shaped like a triangle. It has an area of 3.5 square kilometres. The maximum depth of the lake is 70 meters. The mirror-like surface of the reservoir, surrounded by mountains, is a stunning natural feature. The lake's status as the largest in a mountainous region, situated at an altitude of over 2,000 metres, is a distinctive feature. The lake's total water volume is estimated at 172 million cubic metres. The lake's coastline extends for 14 kilometres, offering a picturesque and accessible route for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the reservoir.

Near Lake Iskanderkul is an ancient juniper tree (juniper bush), adorned with colourful ribbons. Visitors to the local waterfall often adorn the tree with ribbons, leaving a memento to indicate their return visit.

The nearby 43-meter waterfall is known as "Fan Niagara". It is located on the river flowing out of the lake. A notable historical landmark is the rock with an inscription dating back to 1870, which was left by the participants of the expedition led by the renowned Russian traveler and scientist A. Fedchenko.

In the vicinity of Iskanderkul is another lake known as Kuli Moron (Snake Lake). Local folklore speaks of a significant snake population inhabiting the lake. Local folklore asserts that there are two instances when reptilian encounters are deemed safe: when they are in the water and when people are drinking water. The water in Kuli Moron is warmer than that of Iskanderkul, making it a suitable location for swimming.

Lake Iskanderkul is often referred to as a "pearl in the palms of the mountains" and is considered a living legend. It is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors flocking to this mountain reservoir. While there are guest houses for visitors to stay in, foreign visitors generally prefer to camp. Visitors from Sweden, England, France and Tajikistan are all represented. Furthermore, visitors partake in diverse recreational activities. Some opt for a more leisurely pace, traversing the landscape on foot, while others prefer a faster pace, hopping on motorcycles or even rare cars.

Legend has it that the Great Alexander encountered a settlement of Sogdians who put up a fight against his army. The commander was extremely displeased and ordered the damming of the river, on the bank of which residential buildings were located. This resulted in the formation of a lake on the site of the settlement.

According to another legend, the Macedonian horse, Bucephalus, drank water from the lake during a halt after a long march and fell ill. The commander himself went further to India, leaving his faithful horse here. However, even at such a great distance, he felt the death of his master and threw himself into the lake, remaining in it forever. Since then, during the full moon, every month Bucephalus comes out of the water to graze: the waters part, and a snow-white horse comes to the surface of the lake, accompanied by grooms.

According to another legend, the Macedonian horse, Bucephalus, drank water from the lake during a halt after a long march and fell ill. The commander himself went further to India, leaving his faithful horse here. However, even at such a great distance, he felt the death of his master and threw himself into the lake, remaining in it forever. According to this account, during the full moon, Bucephalus emerges from the water to graze, the waters parting to reveal a snow-white horse accompanied by grooms.

Availability: March - November

 Direction: Dushanbe-Ayni (Samarkand/Jarteppa border - Ayni the same time)

 Duration: 1 day (10 hours) 

 Type of tour: Private, calculated for 2-4 people, for Solo (1 person) +50%