Sughd Region

Lake Chapdara, also known locally as Kuli Chapdara, is the largest of the Alaudin Lakes, with a diameter ranging from 300 to 400 meters. It is part of a system of three main lakes and several smaller ones, all connected by underground streams and mountain runoff.

The lake is situated in the upper part of the Pasrud Valley, in a section known as the Chapdara Valley, located in the Ayni district of northwestern Tajikistan, within the Gissar range of the Fann Mountains. It lies at the foot of Chapdara Peak, which rises to 5,049 meters.

Iskanderkul named after Alexander the Great lake is the biggest lake of Fan Mountains situated at the altitude of 2195 and its surface is 3,4 km2.

Small lake overlooking Lake Iskender.

In the heart of the Fann Mountains, in northern Tajikistan, the Fan Niagara waterfall dramatically marks the spectacular exit of Lake Iskander (Iskanderkul, Iskenderkul). At this spot, the lake’s turquoise waters rush into a rocky gorge and powerfully plunge 38 meters down, forming a roaring curtain of foam that echoes throughout the valley. 

In the majestic Fan Mountains of Tajikistan, not far from the legendary Iskanderkul Lake, stands a striking peak known as the “Hat of the Great Alexander”. Officially named Rain Gauge “Dojdemernaya”, this mountain rises to 3,342 meters, dominating the southern shore of the lake with its steep, dramatic walls. Its unusual shape, reminiscent of a hat, is said to have inspired its legendary name.

The Zarafshan Range is a mountain range in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, part of the Pamir-Alay mountains. Almost all of the range belongs to the drainage basins of the Zarafshan River.

The Persian name is believed to possibly be a reference to gold found in bed of the Zarafshan River and its tributaries, which has ushered prosperity to the region from ancient times.

The highest point of 5,489 metres is the peak Chimtarga.