Page 59 - tourismus

National parks and reserves
TOURISM Iskandar-Qul (Alexander’s Lake)

The heart of Fan Mountains, the treasure of Tyan-Shan, ascenic
Isqandar-Qul lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Tajikistan.
Having emerald green and blue color, the water of Isqandar-Qul
Lake is cold, however, it is warm enough for swimming in some
parts that are close to the shore or covered bays, especially in
summertime. The lake is surrounded by snowy peaks. A
fast-flouring Iskander-darya river flows from the lake, forming
a marvelous and gorgeous waterfall, so-called the «Fan Niagara»
that falls from the height of 38 meters. A number of legends are
linked to this lake. According to one of the legends, while passing
through the Fan Mountains with his army Alexander the Great
lost his horse Bucefal, which supposedly sank in the lake. The
lake was then named after Alexander, whose name is spelled in
Persian as «Iskander».

57 Tajikistan guidebook