Most Beautiful and Famous 20 Lakes in Pakistan

Pakistan has some of the most beautiful, natural, and freshwater lakes in South Asia. These include the clear blue lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan, high-altitude alpine lakes in Azad Kashmir, and the largest freshwater lake in Sindh.

The lakes in Pakistan are not just scenic; they also have cultural, ecological, and geographic value. Many of the famous lakes of Pakistan are visited by trekkers, photographers, and travelers every year.

This guide features a list of the top 20 lakes in Pakistan, including travel details, altitudes, distances from Islamabad, and essential information for travelers to know before visiting.

Important & Famous Lakes of Pakistan

Some lakes can be reached by car or bike, while others involve trekking. It covers natural lakes like Saif-ul-Malook and Ratti Gali, along with remote alpine spots like Karambar Lake and Rush Lake.

Summary:

1. Shangrila Lake, Skardu

How to Reach Shangrila Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 620 km
Location: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,500 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Mansehra → Besham → Chilas → Skardu via Jaglot → Shangrila Resort
• Travel Time: 12–14 hours
• Rest Stops: Besham, Chilas (fuel and food), Skardu city (before the final stretch)
• Safety Tips: Wear walking shoes, avoid boating during high winds, and follow resort safety rules.

By Bike

• Route: Same as above; recommended for experienced bikers only
• Travel Time: 16–18 hours
• Rest Stops: Besham, Chilas, Jaglot (fuel and rest)
• Best Time to Visit: May to September

What is Shangrila Lake Famous for?

Famous for its heart-shaped lake and surrounding resorts. Scenic beauty, boating, and a family-friendly area.

Shangrila Lake, also known as Lower Kachura Lake, is known for its peaceful surroundings and a unique red-roofed resort built around it. Located about 20 minutes from Skardu city, this lake offers a relaxing atmosphere with mountain views and boating facilities. This lake is a tourist’s favourite Eid holiday destination.

You can enjoy local food, take peaceful walks, and do scenic photography around the area. The lake is also popular for short family trips and honeymooners looking for calm, natural beauty. It is connected easily by road, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Nearby places include Upper Kachura Lake, Sadpara Lake, and Shigar Valley.

2. Katora Lake, Kumrat Valley, Swat

How to Reach Katora Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 370 km (to Kumrat) + hike
Location: Kumrat Valley, Upper Dir
Altitude: 3,500 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Chakdara → Dir → Kumrat → Jahaz Banda → Trek to Lake
• Travel Time: 10 hours to Kumrat, 1 day hike from Jahaz Banda
• Rest Stops: Timergara, Dir, Kumrat (camp or local rest houses)
• Safety Tips: Carry a sleeping bag, keep warm clothing, and always travel with a guide due to the remote terrain.

By Bike

• Route: Same up to the Jahaz Banda base
• Travel Time: 11 hours to base camp + 1 day hike
• Rest Stops: Same as car route, with extra fuel breaks
• Best Time to Visit: July to early September

What to Expect

A glacial lake surrounded by high cliffs and meadows. Requires a local guide and camping gear.

Katora Lake sits high in the mountains of Upper Dir near Jahaz Banda in Kumrat Valley. It’s a glacial lake shaped like a bowl, surrounded by alpine meadows and snow-covered peaks in summer.

Trekking to Katora Lake takes 5–6 hours from Jahaz Banda, and is recommended only for fit travelers. The lake is cold even in summer and best explored in groups. It is an excellent location for camping, photography, and adventure travel.

Nearby spots include Jahaz Banda, Kumrat Forest, and Do Kala Chashma.

3. Saif ul Malook Lake, Naran

How to Reach Lake Saif-ul-Maluk from Islamabad?

Distance from Islamabad: 255 km
Location: Naran, Kaghan Valley
Altitude: 3,224 meters

By Car

• Best Route: Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Balakot → Naran → Jeep track to Lake
• Total Travel Time: 7 hours (6 hours drive + 45 minutes jeep ride)
• Rest Stops:
  • Abbottabad (breakfast or tea)
  • Balakot (lunch and fuel)
  • Naran (rest, snacks, and jeep hiring)

By Bike

• Best Route: Same as above, suitable for touring bikes
• Total Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
• Rest Stops:
  • Murree Expressway viewpoint
  • Abbottabad and Mansehra for fuel
  • Balakot and Naran for breaks

What to Expect

• A scenic lake surrounded by snowy peaks
• Boating and camping are available
• Nearby places include Lalazar, Babusar Top, and Ansoo Lake.
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Safety Tips: Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall, pack layers, and rent only licensed jeeps.

Lake Saif ul Malook is one of the most iconic lakes in Pakistan, located near Naran in the Kaghan Valley. It is surrounded by mountains, with Malika Parbat towering in the background. The lake is famous for its fairytale legends and natural beauty.

Jeep rides or horse riding are available to reach the lake from Naran. Tourists enjoy boating, food stalls, and local crafts sold by vendors near the lake. It’s a common spot for both Pakistani families and international tourists.

4. Rainbow Lake, Domel, Astore

How to reach Rainbow Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 600 km
Location: Domel, Minimarg, Astore Valley
Altitude: 3,700 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Naran → Babusar Pass → Chilas → Astore → Minimarg (special permit needed)
• Travel Time: 15–16 hours
• Rest Stops: Chilas, Astore (overnight stay advised)
• Safety Tips: Carry ID for checkpoints, arrange NOC before arriving, and avoid solo travel due to remote access.

By Bike

• Route: Same; difficult terrain, best for adventure bikers
• Travel Time: 17+ hours with stops
• Rest Stops: Batakundi, Astore, Domel
• Best Time to Visit: July to early September

What to Expect

Crystal-clear lake with military-controlled access. Advance NOC required. Pristine and isolated.

Rainbow Lake is located in the Domel area of Minimarg in Astore Valley. It’s a private military-controlled zone, and visitors need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to enter.

The lake is known for its vibrant color reflections and clean waters. The area is peaceful and scenic, perfect for quiet sightseeing and simple nature photography. Due to its limited access, it remains preserved and less commercial.

Nearby areas include Minimarg, Chilum Chowki, and Burzil Pass.

5. Rush Lake, Nagar Valley

How to reach Rush Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 620 km (to Nagar) + 3-day trek
Location: Nagar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,694 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Naran → Babusar → Chilas → Gilgit → Nagar → Trek via Hopar Glacier
• Travel Time: 14 hours to Nagar + 3 days trekking
• Rest Stops: Chilas, Gilgit, Hopar village (start of trek)
• Safety Tips: Acclimatize properly, hire an experienced guide, and carry enough water and food supplies.

By Bike

• Route: Same route, rugged terrain
• Travel Time: 16+ hours + trek
• Rest Stops: Naran, Gilgit, Nagar
• Best Time to Visit: July to mid-September

What to Expect

One of the highest alpine lakes. Requires high stamina. Best for serious trekkers.

Rush Lake is one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, situated at 4,694 meters near Rush Pari Peak in Nagar Valley. It requires a multi-day trek starting from Hopper Glacier.

The lake attracts trekkers from around the world due to its adventure-filled route and panoramic views of nearby peaks like Spantik and Ultar Sar. It’s best for high-altitude trekking enthusiasts with experience.

Nearby places include Hopper Glacier, Miar Glacier, and Nagar Khas.

6. Attabad Lake, Hunza

How to Reach Attabad Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 600 km
Location: Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,500 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Naran → Babusar → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza → Attabad
• Travel Time: 12–14 hours
• Rest Stops: Naran, Chilas, Gilgit, Karimabad
• Safety Tips: Use life jackets, avoid late-night travel, and stay in secure accommodations.

By Bike

• Route: Same; smooth road with mountain curves
• Travel Time: 16 hours
• Rest Stops: Multiple viewpoints along the Karakoram Highway
• Best Time to Visit: April to October

What to Expect

A famous landslide lake with water sports. Tunnels and blue water attract tourists year-round.

Attabad Lake was formed due to a massive landslide in 2010. Now it’s one of the top tourist spots in Hunza, known for its deep blue water and boat rides.

The lake offers jet skiing, boating, and lakeside cafes. Luxurious glamping pods and resorts are now being developed around the lake. It also connects easily via the Karakoram Highway. People mostly visit these lakes’ viewpoints during the Eid holidays

Nearby areas include Gulmit, Passu Cones, and Hussaini Bridge.

7. Sheosar Lake, Deosai National Park

How to reach Sheosar Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 630 km
Location: Deosai National Park, Skardu
Altitude: 4,142 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Skardu → Deosai → Sheosar Lake
• Travel Time: 15–16 hours
• Rest Stops: Chilas, Skardu, Bara Pani Camp
• Safety Tips: Bring warm layers, prepare for high altitude, and follow Deosai wildlife protection rules.

By Bike

• Route: Same, rough trail from Skardu
• Travel Time: 17–18 hours
• Rest Stops: Jaglot, Skardu
• Best Time to Visit: July to August

What to Expect

High-altitude lake in vast plains. Accessible from June to September only. Ideal for camping and photography.

Sheosar Lake lies in the vast Deosai Plains, offering calm surroundings with distant views of Nanga Parbat. It is easily accessible through Skardu or Astore.

The lake is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those looking to enjoy silence away from city noise. Deosai is also home to wildlife like brown bears and marmots.

Nearby access includes Bara Pani and Chillum Check Post.

8. Ratti Gali Lake, Azad Kashmir

How to Reach Ratti Gali Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 285 km + jeep + hike
Location: Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 3,683 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Dowarian → Jeep to base → Hike to lake
• Travel Time: 9 hours + 2-hour hike
• Rest Stops: Muzaffarabad, Athmuqam, Dowarian
• Safety Tips: Book a local guide, stay updated on the weather, and don’t camp alone.

By Bike

• Route: Same as car; rugged roads ahead
• Travel Time: 10–11 hours + hiking
• Rest Stops: Muzaffarabad, Keran
• Best Time to Visit: July to September

What to Expect

Vibrant blue lake, only accessible in summer. Must hire a jeep and a guide from Dowarian.

Ratti Gali Lake is a glacial lake reached through a 3-hour jeep ride and a 2-hour trek from Dowarian in Neelum Valley. The lake is known for its rich wildflowers and green meadows.

Camping is allowed at the base camp, and basic facilities are available. The lake is best enjoyed with early morning visits before the clouds cover the valley.

Nearby sites include Keran, Sharda, and Arang Kel.

9. Chitta Katha Lake, Shounter Valley

How to Reach Chitta Katha Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 310 km + hike
Location: Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 4,100 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Kel → Jeep to Domail → Hike to lake
• Travel Time: 10 hours + full-day hike
• Rest Stops: Muzaffarabad, Kel
• Safety Tips: Carry trekking poles, arrange camping supplies, and respect local customs.

By Bike

• Route: Same; recommended for off-road bikes
• Travel Time: 11 hours + hike
• Rest Stops: Athmuqam, Kel
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to mid-September

What to Expect

Challenging trek to Emerald Lake. Requires good fitness and local guidance.

Chitta Katha Lake is situated at an elevation of 13,500 feet in Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir. It requires a jeep ride from Kel followed by a 7 to 8-hour trek.

The lake is renowned for its turquoise blue color and holds sacred value for some locals. Trekkers enjoy the peaceful environment and snow-clad peaks surrounding it.

Nearby areas include Shounter Lake and Upper Neelum.

10. Dudipatsar Lake, Kaghan Valley

How to Reach Dudipatsar Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 370 km (drive + hike)
Location: Near Besal, Kaghan Valley
Altitude: 3,800 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Naran → Besal, then a 15 km hike to the lake
• Travel Time: 7 hours drive + 8–10 hours hike
• Rest Stops: Abbottabad, Balakot, Naran (fuel and supplies), Besal (hiking base camp)
• Safety Tips: Avoid solo trekking, prepare for sudden rain, and carry food.

By Bike

• Route: Same till Besal
• Travel Time: 9 hours ride + full-day hike
• Rest Stops: Naran, Besal
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to early September

What to Expect

A stunning alpine lake is reached by a long trek. Suitable for experienced hikers. Camping opportunities along the trail.

Dudipatsar Lake is surrounded by snowy mountains and green pastures. It lies at an altitude of 12,500 feet and requires a trek from Besal near Lulusar.

The lake is part of Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park and is known for its mirror-like reflection. It is best for trekkers and campers who enjoy remote and raw nature.

Nearby areas include Besal, Lulusar Lake, and Babusar Pass.

11. Saral Lake, Neelum Valley

How to Reach Saral Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 300 km + hike
Location: Neelum Valley, near Noori Top
Altitude: 4,100 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Sharda → Gumot → Hike via Noori Top
• Travel Time: 9–10 hours + hike
• Rest Stops: Sharda, Kel, Gumot
• Safety Tips: Travel in groups, pack waterproof gear, and check valley conditions.

By Bike

• Route: Same as car; mountainous terrain
• Travel Time: 11 hours + hiking
• Rest Stops: Keran, Sharda
• Best Time to Visit: August

What to Expect

Remote lake with snow-fed views. Great for summer adventure travel.

Saral Lake is a scenic spot between Neelum Valley and Kaghan. It’s less crowded and sits at a high altitude, requiring a challenging hike.

The lake is surrounded by alpine meadows and is great for wildflower viewing. It’s mainly visited by adventure groups and experienced hikers.

Nearby points include Noori Top and Dudipatsar Base.

12. Upper Kachura Lake, Skardu

How to Reach Upper Kachura Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 620 km
Location: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,500 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Besham → Chilas → Skardu → Kachura
• Travel Time: 15 hours
• Rest Stops: Besham, Skardu
• Safety Tips: Be careful near deep edges, don’t litter, and avoid swimming during strong winds.

By Bike

• Route: Same, high mountain road
• Travel Time: 17 hours
• Rest Stops: Jaglot, Skardu
• Best Time to Visit: May to October
  

What to Expect

A crystal-clear lake surrounded by fruit orchards. Peaceful and less crowded than Shangri-La.

This deep freshwater lake is about 20 km from Skardu. It’s less commercial than Shangrila but equally stunning, surrounded by apricot orchards.

You can go kayaking, fishing, or simply relax by the lakeside tea stalls. The lake is also suitable for camping and is easily reachable.

Nearby areas include Soq Valley and Lower Kachura.

13. Mahodand Lake, Kalam, Swat

How to Reach Mahodand Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 370 km
Location: Kalam, Swat Valley
Altitude: 2,865 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Mardan → Mingora → Kalam → Mahodand via 4×4 jeep
• Travel Time: 8–10 hours
• Rest Stops: Mingora, Bahrain, Kalam
• Safety Tips: Use 4×4 jeeps, carry cash as no ATMs are nearby, and travel during daylight.

By Bike

• Route: Same till Kalam, then rugged trail
• Travel Time: 101–11 hours
• Rest Stops: Fizagat, Kalam
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

What to Expect

Pine forests, meadows, and horse rides. A jeep is needed from Kalam. Popular for camping.

Mahodand Lake is about 35 km from Kalam, accessible via 4×4 jeeps. It lies in the Usho Valley and is famous for its pine forest surroundings and cold waters.

Tourists enjoy fishing, camping, and horse riding here. The lake is wide and scenic, perfect for day trips.

Nearby areas include Ushu Forest, Blue Water, and Gabral.

14. Ansoo Lake, Naran

How to Reach Ansoo Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 255 km + 7 km hiking trail
Location: Near Saif-ul-Muluk Lake, Kaghan
Altitude: 4,250 meters

By Car

• Route: Same as Saif-ul-Muluk until Naran, then jeep to the lake trail
• Travel Time: 7 hours to Naran + 2–3 hours hiking
• Rest Stops: Abbottabad, Balakot (tea and snacks), Naran (prepare for hike)
• Nearby landmarks include Saif ul Malook and Lalazar Plateau.

By Bike

• Route: Islamabad to Naran on bike, then hike
• Total Time: 9 hours + hiking
• Rest Stops: Same as car route, plus short fuel breaks
• Best Time to Visit: July to mid-September
• Safety Tips: Start early, bring energy snacks, and always trek with a partner.

What to Expect?

Famous, tear-shaped lake requiring a guided trek. Best visited in the summer months. Popular with hikers and photographers.

Ansoo Lake is shaped like a teardrop and lies near Malika Parbat at a height of 13,500 feet. It requires a tough 6–8 hour trek starting from Lake Saif ul Malook.

It’s popular among thrill-seeking hikers. The trail can be steep, and weather changes fast. The lake view depends on clear skies.

15. Lulusar Lake, Near Babusar Pass

How to Reach Lulusar Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 340 km
Location: Near Babusar Pass, Kaghan Valley
Altitude: 3,410 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Mansehra → Balakot → Naran → Besal → Lulusar
• Travel Time: 8 hours
• Rest Stops: Mansehra (early breakfast), Balakot or Naran (snacks), Besal (short tea break)
• Best Time to Visit: June to September

By Bike

• Route: Same as car route
• Travel Time: 9 to 10 hours
• Rest Stops: Kaghan and Naran (fuel, food), Besal (quick rest)
• Safety Tips: Avoid stopping after dark, and don’t go too close to the edge.

What to Expect

A clear blue lake is easily accessible from the roadside. Ideal for photos and quick stops. Open from June to September.

Lulusar Lake is a roadside lake on the way to Babusar Top from Naran. It’s part of the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park.

Tourists can take pictures, relax near the edge, or have a picnic. The water is cold and deep, so no swimming is advised. It’s ideal for a quick stop on the Kaghan route.

Nearby places include Dudipatsar Trail, Babusar Top, and Besal.

16. Karambar Lake, Ishkoman Valley

How to Reach Karambar Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 710 km + hike
Location: Ishkoman Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,272 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Gilgit → Ishkoman → Broghil Valley → Trek to lake
• Travel Time: 17+ hours to Broghil + 2–3 days trek
• Rest Stops: Gilgit, Ghizer, Yasin, Ishkoman
• Safety Tips: Trek with a guide, carry purification tablets, and get weather updates regularly.

By Bike

• Route: Same; difficult terrain
• Travel Time: 18 hours + trek
• Rest Stops: Same as car route
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to late August

What to Expect

Remote glacial lake with turquoise water. Requires high fitness and supplies.

Karambar Lake is one of the highest lakes in Pakistan, located at 14,121 feet in Broghil Valley near Ishkoman. Reaching it requires a multi-day hike from Chitral or Ghizer.

The lake is known for its clean water and untouched beauty. It attracts international trekkers due to its biodiversity and natural setting.

Nearby regions include Broghil Valley and Darkot Pass.

17. Barah Broq Lake, Shigar Valley

How to Reach Barah Broq Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 640 km + trek
Location: Shigar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,328 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Skardu → Shigar → Trek to lake
• Travel Time: 16 hours + 2-day hike
• Rest Stops: Chilas, Skardu, Shigar
• Safety Tips: Travel in a group, bring navigation tools, and inform locals before trekking.

By Bike

• Route: Same; good off-road skills needed
• Travel Time: 18 hours + trek
• Rest Stops: Same as a car
• Best Time to Visit: July to September

What to Expect

A hidden alpine lake with green surroundings. Perfect for solitude seekers.

Barah Broq Lake is a lesser-known destination near Shigar, reached through a trekking trail from Barah village.

The lake lies in a peaceful alpine zone, surrounded by stones and small glaciers. It’s ideal for off-the-beaten-path travelers.

Nearby points include Shigar Fort, Shigar Valley, and Hashupi Bagh.

18. Rama Lake, Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan

How to Reach Rama Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 570 km
Location: Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 3,507 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Chilas → Astore → Rama Meadows → Lake
• Travel Time: 13–14 hours
• Rest Stops: Chilas, Astore

By Bike

• Route: Same route; scenic but steep
• Travel Time: 15 hours
• Rest Stops: Jaglot, Astore

What to Expect

Surrounded by pine trees and snow-capped peaks. Best in early summer.

Rama Lake is located near Rama Meadows in Astore Valley at a height of around 3,500 meters. Surrounded by thick pine trees and green grasslands, the lake offers a peaceful setting for visitors who enjoy nature.

You can reach the lake by jeep from Astore City to Rama Meadows, followed by a short trek on foot. Although camping directly near the lake is difficult due to the rocky ground, camping spots are available nearby in Rama Meadows.

The lake gets its water from nearby glaciers and is known for its quiet atmosphere and clear reflections. It’s a good spot for photography and small group visits. Warm clothing and basic supplies are recommended.

Best Time to Visit & Safety Tips: May to September is ideal when the path is clear and weather is stable; carry warm layers, stay on marked trails, and avoid visiting during heavy rainfall as the trek can become slippery.

19. Banjosa Lake Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir

How to Reach Banjosa Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 130 km
Location: Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 1,981 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Kahuta → Azad Pattan → Rawalakot → Banjosa
• Travel Time: 3–4 hours
• Rest Stops: Azad Pattan, Rawalakot

By Bike

• Route: Same, smooth mountain road
• Travel Time: 4–5 hours
• Rest Stops: Kahuta, Rawalakot

What to Expect

Man-made lake with pine forests. Ideal for day trips and picnics.

Banjosa Lake is a scenic freshwater lake near Rawalakot, surrounded by green pine trees and cool mountain air. It is one of the most popular places in Azad Kashmir for families during the summer and Eid holidays.

The lake is easy to access by road from Rawalakot, with good routes for cars and motorbikes. Local stalls offer food, and visitors can enjoy boating and walking along the shore. Campsites are available near the wooded areas around the lake.

Although not very deep, the calm water and peaceful setting make it a good spot for a relaxing day. Other nearby attractions include Toli Pir and Poonch River viewpoints.

Best Time to Visit & Safety Tips: Visit from April to October for pleasant weather; stay near safe areas while boating, avoid the lake’s edge during rainy days, and always keep essentials like water, jackets, and a flashlight.

20. Shounter Lake, Azad Kashmir

How to Reach Shounter Lake from Islamabad

Distance from Islamabad: 320 km
Location: Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 3,100 meters

By Car

• Route: Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Kel → Shounter Valley → Lake
• Travel Time: 10–11 hours
• Rest Stops: Muzaffarabad, Kel
• Safety Tips: Jeep roads can be narrow; always hire local drivers. Weather changes quickly, so pack warm layers and check valley conditions before traveling.

By Bike

• Route: Same; off-road capable bike required
• Travel Time: 12 hours
• Rest Stops: Athmuqam, Kel
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to mid-September

What will you see there?

Lush alpine lake accessible via Shounter Pass. Great for summer exploration.

Shounter Lake is a small but scenic alpine lake located in the Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir, near the village of Kel. It is accessible via a 4×4 jeep track and offers a peaceful getaway surrounded by lush green slopes and glacier-fed waters.

The lake is often visited as a stopover by travelers going toward Chitta Katha Lake. Shounter Lake itself is great for short visits, nature photography, and peaceful picnics. Since it’s not very commercialized, it retains a raw and untouched charm.

Nearby attractions include Shounter Pass, Chitta Katha Lake, and the greater Neelum Valley region.

Travel Gear for Visiting Lakes in Pakistan

Having the right travel gear ensures a safe and comfortable trip. Essential items include:

Conclusion

Pakistan’s lakes give different kinds of experiences, some are perfect for tough hikes, others for quiet and calm moments. You can trek to high-altitude Rush Lake or enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the clear waters of Attabad Lake. Make sure to plan well, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty that nature has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions