The Fann Mountains are home to over a hundred peaks soaring more than five thousand meters above the Sughd Province of northern Tajikistan. Forming part of the snow-capped western Pamir Mountains, they rank among the highest mountain ranges on Earth.
But it is not just the glorious natural scenery of the Fann Mountains that makes this part of the globe such a highlight for adventure travelers. Various attractions lie scattered throughout the scenic valleys, and Iskanderkul Lake and the small Sarytag village located nearby are such worthy additions to the bucket list, particularly if you are a trekking or mountaineering enthusiast.
Apart from trekking and mountaineering, the key ingredient of a trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan is exploring the region’s many alpine lakes, such as the Haft Kul (the Fann Mountains Seven Lakes) and, of course, the extraordinary Iskanderkul Lake – especially during the summer months.
The Iskanderkul Lake (which means ‘the Lake of Alexander the Great’) is one of the most picturesque high-altitude lakes in the former Soviet Union – and easily one of the most famous natural landmarks in Tajikistan. Perched on the slopes of the mighty Gissar mountain range near the village of Sarytag in the Fann Mountains, this unusual triangular lake is seemingly picture-perfect with brilliant turquoise water providing a contrast against the surrounding red-tinged hills speckled with copper and iron oxide.
Bordered by pretty pebbles, the lake has its own makeshift beach where you can sunbathe and relax with a picnic after your drive through the mountains. Located at an altitude of over two thousand meters, the lake is not particularly good for swimming though – filled with crisp water from the mountains, it is very chilly even in the height of summer.
Other activities on and around Iskanderkul Lake include boat trips and hiking, including the trail that leads to the nearby Zmeinoe Lake, also known as Snake Lake. While the dark green water of this smaller lake is much warmer than that of Iskanderkul’s, swimming is still not recommended because of the abundance of snakes that are attracted to its warm temperature. Fortunately, the views from the hilltop are well worth the climb regardless.
Do not miss the Iskanderkul Waterfall located further up the hill, lovingly dubbed the ‘Fann Niagara’ by Tajik locals – and when you are here, it will be easy to see why. The impressive 43-meter waterfall can be reached with an easy five-kilometer hike. While the waterfall itself is not that picturesque, the sheer power of the plunging water is certainly something to marvel at.
Iskanderkul Lake is easily visited on a weekend escape from the main city of Dushanbe. It is a much quieter alternative to the busy tourist attractions of the Tajik capital with some of the most stunning scenery to be found in northern Tajikistan. If you take the road to Iskanderkul from Dushanbe (highway M34), then make sure to stop at the viewpoint before you reach the lake for the most photogenic views of the freshwater lake and the surrounding canyons.
Just around the corner from Iskanderkul Lake, seven kilometers away to be exact, is the Sarytag Village in Tajikistan – another highlight for Fann Mountains Tajikistan trekking.
Visitors who come from Dushanbe to Iskanderkul to spend the day at the lake or to sightsee the Fann Mountains usually stay in Sarytag Village as it is the closest thing to a town the area has to offer. This small, authentic alpine village is used as a holiday base for hiking and mountaineering here in Iskanderkul as well as further into the Fann Mountains.
Located at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level, Sarytag Village has some truly magnificent scenery, from snow-covered mountain peaks and beautiful subalpine meadows with a backdrop of the dramatic Mount Sarytag. Homestays in Sarytag Village are a popular way to experience the authenticity of the region. You can stay with Tajik locals in their own home, usually on a mattress on the floor in a private room. However, for those who prefer not to rough it, a guest house does exist during the summer months which requires advanced booking.
Hiking around the Fann Mountains is a great way to see the unusual wildlife and nature of the region, such as eagles, camelback spiders, marmots, and the occasional snow leopard. If you are hoping to visit the Fann Mountains, the best time to come depends on what you are planning to do here. If you are planning a trekking venture in the Fann Mountains October is best. However, if you want to go mountaineering then the best time is usually between July and September.
You can combine a visit to Iskanderkul and Sarytag Village with a trip to the Fann Mountains 7 Lakes. If you are not sure what you want to do, or you are looking for suggestions, take a look at the alternative itineraries available with Paramount Journey’s Fann Mountain tours.
