Location: Iskanderkul, Fann Mountains, Tajikistan
Distance: 2.8 miles (out and back)
Peak Elevation: 7,268′
Elevation Gain: 257′
Trip Length: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Iskanderkul is a scenic alpine lake in the Gissar Range of the Fann Mountains. Driving to the lake takes you past splendid views of the green snow-covered Fann Mountains, glaciers, and high mountain passes. The curvy road also bores through the 5-km Anzob Tunnel, also known as the Tunnel of Death. Enjoy a hot lunch at the lake followed by a hike to a spot directly above a waterfall.
Iskanderkul Lake | “Fann Niagara” Waterfall
Directions
- Trailhead: From the lake’s edge, walk to the road.
- 0.17 miles: Turn right at the road.
- 0.51 miles: At the bridge, turn left onto the trail.
- 0.62 miles: Turn right onto the trail.
- 1.4 miles: You have reached the waterfall. Turn around and return to the trailhead.
Iskanderkul Lake
Iskanderkul is a 7,201-feet-high lake that from some angles has an astonishing aquamarine color. The lake was named in honor of Alexander the Great whose empire’s northeastern edge reached this region of Tajikistan. There is a legend that Alexander met resistance from a local mountain village. The villagers resisted his rule. In response, Alexander had the river diverted to destroy the village and drown its inhabitants. It’s not a pretty story of the lake’s origins.
Another legend has it that Alexander was resting with his horse Bucephalus next to the shore when local villagers attacked. During the skirmish, Alexander and his horse tumbled off a cliff. While Alexander survived, Bucephalus drowned in the lake.
Hike to “Fann Niagara” Waterfall
After visiting Iskanderkul, hike through the river gorge to see the “Fann Niagara” waterfall. The trail is parallel to the turquoise Iskander Darya River. On your left is a giant chute with really red and orange rocks. The slope is extremely steep with evidence of tremendous rock falls and slides.
Fann Niagara waterfall is at the end of a relatively level trail. There is a shaky metal grate platform above the waterfall. You have to stand in the corner and twist to see the waterfall. It is invigorating to stand just above the raging torrent. It’s a bit nerve wracking to take photos directly below without dropping your camera. Overall, it is a thrilling spot to view the waterfall.
You can c
limb a bit higher on a slippery slope on the other side, but it’s scary hanging over the edge. From this precarious perch in the narrow ravine, you can observe pink-orange walls and a white-capped peak in the distance.
