Naran
Naran is a picturesque town and a popular tourist destination located in the upper Kaghan Valley in the Mansehra District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green meadows, Naran serves as a gateway to the majestic Himalayas. It offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,409 meters and is about 119 kilometers from Mansehra city. The valley is home to many attractions including the enchanting Saiful Malook Lake, the picturesque Lulusar Lake, and the scenic Babusar Top. The rich history of the Naran-Kaghan Valley, dating back to the British Colonial period, adds to its allure. Despite facing a disastrous earthquake in 2005, Naran has revived its tourism and continues to be a popular attraction both locally and internationally.
Places of Attraction
Family-Friendly Places
Saif ul Malook Lake
Saif ul Malook Lake, also known as the “Mirror of Heaven” or “Pearl of Paradise”, is a breathtaking alpine lake located in the Naran Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Situated at an elevation of 3,224 meters (10,578 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest lakes in Pakistan. The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear water, which reflects the majestic Malika Parbat, the highest peak in the valley. Formed by glacial moraines, the lake is home to a rich ecosystem, including many species of blue-green algae and large brown trout. The lake is also steeped in folklore, with tales of the Egyptian Prince Saiful Malook who fell in love with a fairy princess named Princess Badri-ul-Jamala at the lake. The lake’s beauty is mesmerizing in the bright sunlight, and it also has a pleasant effect on travelers under the bright stars. However, access to the lake is limited during the winter season due to heavy snowfall.
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Babusar Top
Babusar Top, also known as Babusar Pass, is a mountain pass located in the northern part of the Kaghan Valley in Pakistan. At an elevation of 4,173 meters (13,691 feet), it is the highest point in the valley that can be easily accessed by cars. The pass connects the Kaghan Valley via the Thak Nala with Chilas on the Karakoram Highway. The pass is known for its breathtaking views of meticulously arranged plateaus, verdant meadows, briskly flowing streams, and the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir. Despite its majestic appeal, Babusar Top is renowned for its unstable mountain slopes, adding an element of thrill and adventure to the journey. However, travelers are advised to take all necessary safety precautions when embarking on this exhilarating expedition. The pass often closes during winter due to heavy snowfall and harsh conditions.
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Lalazar
Lalazar is a captivating plateau located in the Kaghan Valley of Pakistan. Situated at an elevation of 3,123 meters (10,246 ft), it is one of the most picturesque destinations in the region. The plateau is renowned for its vibrant alpine flowers that bloom in spring and summer, creating a mesmerizing display of colors. Lalazar is also home to lush pine forests that add to its natural beauty. The plateau offers a panoramic view of the valley below and the towering peaks of the Himalayas. Despite its remote location, Lalazar is easily accessible via a jeep track from Battakundi. However, the journey can be challenging after heavy rain, adding an element of adventure. The best time to visit Lalazar is from June to November, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its peak.
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Ansoo Lake
Ansoo Lake, which translates to “teardrop lake”, is a high-altitude lake located in the Kaghan Valley in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Nestled near Malika Parbat, the highest mountain in the Kaghan Valley, the lake sits at an impressive elevation of 4,245 meters (13,927 ft) above sea level. The lake owes its name to its unique teardrop shape. It is considered one of the highest lakes of the Himalaya Range. The lake was discovered in 1993 by Pakistan Air Force pilots who were flying at a relatively low altitude over the area. The journey to the lake is an adventure in itself, with a challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. However, the lake is often shrouded in fog or rain, adding a touch of mystery to its beauty.
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Shogran
Shogran is a serene hill station situated on a plateau in the Kaghan Valley of Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in northern Pakistan. Located at an altitude of 2,362 meters (7,749 ft) above sea level, it is just over 200 kilometers from Islamabad, making it an excellent destination for a short getaway. Shogran is known for its tranquilizing streets, fresh air, and a backdrop of snow-blanketed mountain peaks and foamy clouds. The valley is home to the beautiful Siri Paye Meadows, which cover the hilly peaks of Kaghan like a soft blanket at an altitude of 2,895 meters. The area offers a blend of picturesque tourist attractions and a soul-reviving environment, with the River Kunhar and sloping hills covered with puddles of sparkling water. It is surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks, including Makra Peak, Moosa Ka Musalla, Malika Parbat, and others. Shogran has been a popular tourist attraction in recent years.
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Siri Paye
Siri Paye is a mesmerizing meadow located in the Kaghan Valley, Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,895 meters and is accessible via a thrilling jeep ride from Shogran. The journey to Siri Paye is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The meadow is known for its lush greenery, vibrant alpine flowers, and a serene lake that adds to its natural beauty. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the environment. The area also offers opportunities for short hikes, horse riding, and camping. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always advisable to check the local weather forecast before planning a visit.
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Batakundi
Batakundi, also known as Battakundi, is a scenic tourist town located in the Kaghan Valley of Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Situated at an elevation of 2,624 meters (8,609 ft) above sea level, it is the first town one encounters when traveling towards Babusar from Naran. Batakundi is a stop for jeeps and is the first destination on the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad-Chilas Road to Babusar Top. The town is known for its natural beauty and is the last town in the Kaghan Valley that stays open all year. It offers a variety of accommodations, including a PWD rest house and several hotels. Many visitors come to Batakundi to enjoy the Batakundi Waterfall and the serene environment.
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Jalkhad
Jalkhad, also known as Jalkhand, is a picturesque town situated in the Mansehra district of Hazara, Pakistan. Located at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, it is about 40 kilometers away from Naran and sits at an elevation of 3,140 meters (10,300 ft) above sea level. The region is home to numerous lakes, glaciers, rivers, and waterfalls, making it a popular tourist destination. One of the notable attractions in Jalkhad is the Pyala Lake, a round lake in the Kaghan Valley. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, climbing, kayaking, and rafting. Despite its remote location, Jalkhad has turned into a picnic spot and is easily accessible via a well-maintained road. The best time to visit Jalkhad is during the summer months of July and August, when the weather is warm and pleasant.
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Lulusar Lake
Lulusar Lake, also spelled as Lulusir, is a mesmerizing alpine lake located in the Kaghan Valley of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. Situated at an impressive altitude of 3,410 meters (11,190 ft), it serves as the primary headwaters of the Kunhar River. The lake flows southwest through the entire length of the Kaghan Valley, passing through several towns including Jalkhand, Naran, Kaghan, Jared, Paras, and Balakot until its confluence with the Jhelum River. The lake is about 50 kilometers away from Naran and is accessible by any kind of vehicle. The lake’s name, “Lulusar,” is derived from the Pashto term “Sar,” meaning “top” or “peak,” referring to the cluster of peaks and the lake itself. The pristine waters of Lulusar Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offer a breathtaking view that captivates the hearts of all who visit.
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Noori Top
Noori Top, also known as Noori Pass, is the second highest pass in the Kaghan Valley, with an altitude of approximately 12,500 ft. from sea level. It serves as the border between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and Kashmir. The track to Noori Top starts from Jalkhad in the Naran Valley and ends near Sharda in the Kashmir Valley. The journey to the top can be covered either by hiking or by 4WD Jeeps/Vehicles. The path is known for its narrow stretches and sharp turns, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This pass was built by the Pakistan Army during the Kargil War in 1998 and is now used as a tourist spot. The best season to visit is from July to September. However, the pass may be inaccessible through vehicles due to snow in other months.
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Adventurous Places
Dudipatsar Lake
Dudipatsar Lake, also known as Dudipat Lake, is a pristine alpine lake located in the Kaghan Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Encircled by snow-clad peaks in the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park, the lake lies at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley. The lake’s water is greenish-blue and very cold, situated at an impressive altitude of 3,800 meters (12,500 ft). The surrounding mountains, with snow patches in the shady dales, average around 4,800 meters (15,700 ft) in elevation. The lake is not huge – only about 500 feet long and 250 feet wide – but its stunning views from its shores are unforgettable. The lake’s water gleams like a mirror in the summer, and the side valleys, particularly the lake’s banks, turn lush green. Despite its splendor, this lake is also known as the Queen of Lakes.
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Makra Peak
Makra Peak, also known as Spider Peak due to its snow formation resembling a spider, is a notable peak in the Mansehra District in the Hazara Region of the Himalayas in northern Pakistan Standing at an impressive height of 3,885 meters (12,746 ft), it is almost 200 kilometers from Islamabad on the Naran Road. The journey to the peak is a challenging one, typically taking around four hours, and can vary greatly depending on the fitness level of the trekker. Despite the challenges, the summit offers good views of Hazara and Azad Kashmir. The waters from the mountain’s glacier feed the Kunhar River. The trek to Makra Peak is considered difficult due to the gradient of the mountainsides and the weather conditions, especially during storms.
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Mushekpuri Top
Mushekpuri Top, also known as Mukeshpuri Top, is the highest point in Nathia Gali and the second-highest peak in Pakistan’s Northern Areas. Located in the heart of Pakistan’s hidden treasures, it invites adventurers to explore its pristine landscapes and panoramic views. The trek through the bewitching pine forest offers a visual feast, attracting adventurers with an aromatic ensemble of perfectly splendid wonders. The trek unfolds as a tale, guiding hikers through lush meadows that encourage quiet thought while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The interesting thing is that Mushkpuri lives up to both meanings, as it is full of flowers, with the daisy being the most commonly found flower. The best time to visit Mushkpuri Top is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy the stunning views from the top of the mountain.
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Kunhar River
The Kunhar River, also known as the River Kunhar, is a significant river located primarily in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, northern Pakistan. Originating from the serene Lulusar Lake, near the Babusar Pass at an elevation of 3,455 meters, in the Kaghan Valley, it is the main river in the Naran Valley. The river spans a length of 177 kilometers and is a part of the Indus River watershed basin. Melting snow and natural tributaries are the primary sources of water for the Kunhar River. As it descends through the Kaghan Valley, the Kunhar weaves its way through dense forests, alpine meadows, and quaint villages, creating a picturesque route that captivates all who encounter its waters. The river eventually joins the Jhelum River at Pattan.
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Gitidas
Gitidas, located beyond Lulusar Lake in the Kaghan Valley of Pakistan, is a less explored place due to its challenging access. It’s a serene spot nestled amidst the majestic mountains, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey to Gitidas is an adventure in itself, with a challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Despite its remote location, the beauty of Gitidas is worth the effort, making it a must-visit for those seeking solitude and a close encounter with nature. However, travelers are advised to take all necessary safety precautions when embarking on this exhilarating expedition.
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Kiwai Waterfall
Kiwai Waterfall, located in the beautiful village of Kiwai in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, is a popular travel destination. The waterfall is easily accessible via Shogran on the way to the Kaghan Valley. The waterfall is surrounded by scattered local tuck shops and small restaurants, providing visitors with a variety of food and beverage options. The waterfall is not as large as other northern waterfalls, making it suitable for family or personal tourism. The best time to visit the Kiwai Waterfall is probably in the summer when the general heat of the Pakistani atmosphere can be best dealt with by the cold flowing surges of waterfalls. The Kiwai Waterfall is one of the most beloved tourist spots and is considered a positive factor for this waterfall’s myriad of attractions.
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Piyala Lake
Piyala Lake, also known as Pyala Lake, is a round lake located in Jalkhand, Kaghan Valley, Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It is about 40 kilometers (25 mi) from Naran. The lake is significant as it is a bowl-shaped lake on top of a mountain located on the way to Lulusar Lake from Naran. The lake is undeveloped but is known for its natural beauty and serene environment. The history of Piyala Lake is very interesting, locals describe that it was formed after a shooting star or meteor (Shahab e Saqib) fell on this place. The lake is small but beautiful, and you have to do some hiking if you want to go near the lake, but it is recommended from the top to get the full view.
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Barwai
Barwai is a small town located in the lush green belt of the Kaghan Valley in Pakistan. It’s nestled amidst the towering mountains and is known for its natural beauty. The town serves as a waypoint on the picturesque journey through the valley, offering travelers a chance to rest and soak in the serene environment. The town is famous for its orchards, and you can find plenty of apples there. The nearby Naran Waterfall is also a popular attraction. Despite its small size, Barwai offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Kaghan Valley.
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Sambaksar Lake
Sambaksar Lake, also known as Sambak Sar Lake, is a high-altitude lake located in the Kaghan Valley of Pakistan. The name “Sambak Sar” translates to “rocky wall” in the local language, and “Sar” denotes a lake. Situated at an impressive altitude of 13,700 feet above sea level, the lake remains frozen for six out of the twelve months. Even in its frozen state, the lake exhibits remarkable beauty. For the remaining three months, it offers a mesmerizing view with transparent water. The lake is easily accessible with just a 20-minute walk from the main road. It is located in close proximity to Dharamsar Lake, and both are accessible via the same route1. Despite its icy presence well into August or September, the lake retains its captivating green allure.
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Kaghan Valley
The Kaghan Valley, located in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is an alpine paradise known for its breathtaking beauty. The valley stretches across 155 kilometers of northern Pakistan, with elevations ranging from 650 meters to its highest point at the Babusar Pass around 4,170 meters. The valley is adorned with glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and frosty mountain streams that flow alongside the Kunhar River. The alpine climate and the prevalence of pine forests and alpine meadows make it a popular summertime resort among locals and tourists. The valley’s unspoiled natural beauty, including its mountains, dales, lakes, waterfalls, streams, and glaciers, offers a deeply satisfying experience.
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