Sarytag is a small, quiet village in the low scrubby hills of Tajikistan, not far from Iskanderkul, shaped by wind and time. Traces of nomadic life remain: yurt frames lean against barns, and shepherds guide sheep like slow clouds, their white fleeces bright against winter grey. Boys on bikes lead cows along winding canyon roads, confident from practice.
Rivers cut through, eroding deep valleys in the mountains. The water changes colour constantly, most often a snow-white froth over an almost beige flow, heavy with silt from the canyon walls. Occasionally, where enough water runs over smoothed stones, it turns a clear, vibrant blue.
The official roadblock on the approach is a man with a piece of string. It is, in its way, efficient.
Sports & Activities
Iskanderkul viewpoint walk
A walk from the parking area to the viewpoint above the lake and back. The lake is named for Alexander the Macedonian, who is said to have loved this place. The scale of the surrounding mountains makes the water look contained, which it isn't; it's substantial. Worth the walk for the panorama.