Pakistan is home to numerous natural and artificial lakes and reservoirs. The largest lake in Pakistan is Manchar Lake, which covers an area of approximately 260 square kilometers (100 square miles). The highest lakes in Pakistan are Paristan Lake and Shimshal Lake, both situated at elevations exceeding 4,755 meters (15,600 feet).
Karambar Lake, the second-highest lake in Pakistan, stands at 4,272 meters (14,016 feet) and ranks as the 33rd-highest lake in the world. A recent analysis using Google Maps identified around 500 lakes of Pakistan in northern region, particularly in the Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral regions, many of which remain unnamed and unknown to the local populace.
Attabad Lake, one of the most attractive high-altitude lakes in Pakistan, is located in Gojal, Hunza Valley. The lake was formed after a landslide in 2010 that stopped the flow of the River Hunza, creating a natural dam. This event resulted in the tragic submerging of the village of Attabad. The lake is at 8,000 feet above sea level, and its stunning color is primarily due to the glacial minerals present in the water.
Visitors to the lake can enjoy various leisure activities, including a wide range of boating options, jet skiing, picnicking areas, and several stalls and restaurants/cafés. Swimming in the lake is also safe. The surrounding area offers awesome photo opportunities. amazing
Boat rental prices vary depending on the number of passengers and the duration of the trip. For you, stopping at the lake, soaking in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoying a speedboat ride across its turquoise, calm waters was absolutely perfect.
Location: Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,559 meters (8,398 feet)
It is a challenging yet rewarding loop hike that begins from the Passu Glacier. The trail ascends steeply and can be exposed at times as it climbs to the Yunz Valley. After crossing the Yunz Valley, the route descends to the Batura Glacier moraine, eventually leading to Janabad, a new settlement in the Passu region.
The complete loop is approximately 19 kilometers and requires some navigation skills. Hikers will enjoy beautiful views of Passu and the Passu Glacier on one side, as well as stunning vistas of the Batura Glacier.
Located at the edge of the glacier in the upper Hunza region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Batura Glacier spans 57 kilometers in length and covers an area of approximately 285 square kilometers. You can get a glimpse of this majestic lake from the Karakoram Highway after passing through the Passu.
Location: Batura Valley, Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,900 meters (9,500 feet)
Borith Lake is approximately 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level and lies 2 kilometers north of Gulmit. It is easily accessible via a 2-kilometer unpaved jeep track from the Husseini settlement, and trekking from Gulmit village to the lake takes about 2-3 hours.
Borith Lake is a small endorheic lake located west of the Karakoram Highway (KKH), between the Ghulkin and Passu Glaciers. A mud track leading from just outside Husseini village takes you to the lake, which is a couple of kilometers from the KKH. The track is rocky, making it suitable for a 4×4 vehicle, although a car with good ground clearance can also navigate it.
The lake is serene and peaceful, featuring crystal-clear brackish water that does not support any fish or other living organisms. However, during the winter months, a variety of waterfowl visit the lake, including mallards, pochards, and teals. The surrounding mountains are home to a significant population of Himalayan ibex. The area resembles a bowl, completely encircled by mountains, making it especially beautiful in the summer. The lake does freeze over in January and February.
Since Borith Lake is between the Ghulkin and Passu Glaciers, there are routes leading to both glaciers from the lake. It is worth a short visit, and from here, one can hike up to either Ghulkin or Passu Glaciers.
Location: Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,500 feet)
Ghanche Lake, also known as Khenpi Tso, translates to right-hand side lake. This name reflects the fact that Ghanche Nualah has two lakes located close to one another, yet Khenpi Tso possesses a distinguishing feature. Situated at an elevation of 4,600 meters above sea level, lush green pastures surround this lake, diverse alpine flowers, glaciers, crystal-clear stream waters, and hills, all set in a breathtaking environment for visitors. A notable highlight of Ghanche Lake is the spectacular view it offers of four of the 8,000-meter peaks, along with other renowned mountain peaks in succession.
Location: Khaplu Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,599.9 meters (15,092 feet)
Ghorashe Lake is in the Kharmang District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is surrounded by mountains and fields of wild apricots, with a depth of up to 80 meters. Due to its mountainous location, access to the lake is quite challenging. Many visitors come here to fish for trout.
Location: Kharmang Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,862.2 meters (9,390 ft)
Handarap Lake is a high-altitude lake situated in the Shandur Valley of the Gupis-Yasin District. In addition to its natural beauty, the lake serves as both a tourist attraction and a freshwater reservoir. It can be accessed via the Karakoram Highway from Islamabad to Gilgit, followed by a four-hour trek from Handarap Valley. This stunning lake will hypnotize you with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.
Location: Ghizer Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 3,285 meters (10,778 ft)
Naltar Lake is the most beautiful and top tourist attraction in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. The Naltar Lakes consist of three stunning lakes in the Naltar Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Starangi Lake is the first stop on your journey to explore the Naltar lakes. If you are planning to hike to Doohdi Lake or Feroza Lake, you can always visit Starangi Lake on your way back. At first glance, it may be hard to tell the difference between grass and water, as the lake appears almost like a grassy meadow.
However, the crystal-clear water reveals vibrant underwater vegetation, which gives the lake its name, Starangi, meaning seven-colored lake. There are a few dhabas nearby where you can grab some tea and potato chips. Just a heads up, the preferred washrooms are by Blue Lake, not here.
Location: Naltar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Known locally as Shangrila Lake due to the resort built on its banks in the 1980s, Lower Kachura Lake is about a 20-minute drive from Skardu Lakes. The term Shangrila translates to Heaven on Earth, and a visit to this stunning lake truly lives up to that name. The resort offers various water sports, and you can also rent a boat for a tranquil ride across the calm waters of the lake.
Location: Skardu District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,500 meters (8,200 feet)
Phander Lake is the largest lake in the Phander Valley, renowned for its beautiful and charming colors, which attract the majority of tourists to the area. It is located in Koh-i-Ghizer, within the Gupis-Yasin District, and serves as the primary source of fresh water for the Phander Valley.
Location: Gupis-Yasin District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Pakistan is home to breathtaking scenery, towering mountains, and enchanting lakes. Among these is Rama Lake, situated near the eastern slopes of the magnificent Nanga Parbat mountain range in the Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan. The valley is approximately 10,800 feet (3,300 meters) above sea level. It is covered in heavy snow most of the year, allowing only a limited period to visit and appreciate the beauty of Rama Lake.
While driving along the Karakoram Highway, after crossing Raikot, we reach the city of Jaglot. From there, we turn towards Astore City. The road to Astore is in poor condition, with some areas where the road is nearly non-existent. Rama Meadows is 10 km from Astore, and the road here is steep and rough, so a 4×4 vehicle is required to explore this stunning lake.
Rama Meadows is a lush, green area surrounded by pine trees. There is also a beautiful polo ground, and from the meadows, we can see Nanga Parbat, which adds to the mesmerizing scenery. Many people graze their animals, and several streams of fresh water flow down from Rama Lake.
Rama Lake is situated 4 km away from Rama Meadows at an elevation of 11,500 feet above sea level. You can reach the lake site via a steep, 4×4 mud track and several glaciers along the way. The lake and its surrounding views are stunning, especially the breathtaking sight of Nanga Parbat from the lake.
Location: Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,500 feet)
Rush Lake, situated at an impressive 15,000 feet above sea level, holds the distinction of being the highest lake in Pakistan and ranks as the 25th highest lake in the world. You can reach this beautiful lake by trekking through the Nagar and Hopar valleys or by crossing the Hopar Glacier (Bualtar Glacier) and Miar Glacier.
While the path may be rough, the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Spantik Golden Peak, Malubiting, Ultar Sar, Phuparash Peak, and Miar Peak, make the journey worthwhile.
Location: Nagar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,694 meters (15,400 feet)
Satpara Lake, located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, is a fairy-tale destination surrounded by stunning glacier mountains and adorned with rainbow-colored hues. This natural freshwater lake spans 2.5 square kilometers and sits at an elevation of 2,636 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level.
Satpara Lake is situated along the route from Skardu to the Deosai Plains, just around 25 minutes away from Skardu. Nestled at an altitude of 2,636 meters above sea level, Satpara stream nourishes the lake, which draws its waters from the melting glaciers of the Deosai Plains.
Visitors have the opportunity to stroll around the lake, with several scenic viewpoints along the way. Depending on the season, you can engage in activities such as fishing, boating, rowing, and hiking, making the most of your time in this stunning natural setting.
Location: Skardu Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan Lakes
Altitude: 2,636 meters (8,648 feet)
Visitors to Deosai National Park can witness the grandeur of Sheosar Lake firsthand. You can access this lake via two primary routes: one from Skardu (a couple of hours by jeep) and another from Astore (about four hours by 4×4).
It took almost five hours to reach Sheosar Lake. After our long journey, we finally arrived at this beautiful place. The weather was freezing, with temperatures around -2°C, but it felt like -10°C. It’s essential to wear a very warm jacket, a cap, and gloves. The stunning scenery was breathtaking, although the cold wind was equally astonishing.
The land grass around the lake is beautiful, but it’s entirely wobbly since there is still water beneath it. So, be cautious when walking on that surface, as you might lose a shoe! Nevertheless, after five hours of travel, it was definitely worth it.
Undoubtedly, Sheosar Lake is the jewel of Deosai National Park. Located at the far end of the park, travel towards the Chilam Chauki side. Sheosar Lake sits at an impressive 13,000 feet above sea level. While there are a few areas where you can approach the water, many parts of the shoreline are boggy. The lake is quite deep and features crystal-clear water.
Around the lake, there are picnic spots and a couple of small kiosks that offer drinks, snacks, and tea. If you want to have a meal by the lake, you will need to bring your own food. Be aware that it can get quite breezy, and if the sun hides behind clouds, the temperature can drop quickly. Also, keep in mind that the lake usually stays frozen for around four to five months each year.
Alternatively, you can trek from Skardu to the lake, which takes about two days. The best time to visit is in spring when wildflowers bloom across the meadows. The lake, approximately 130 feet deep, offers a picturesque and lofty setting.
Location: Deosai Plains, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,142 meters (13,589 feet)
Khalti Lake is a natural gem located in the scenic Khalti Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green meadows, this pristine lake offers a serene escape for nature lovers. The tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings create a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Visitors can engage in various activities to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Khalti Lake is a top destination for anyone seeking solace in nature.
Location: Khalti, Ghizer District
Nestled in Hunza, Pakistan, Hasanabad Lake is a tranquil freshwater haven, embraced by vibrant greenery. It offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers, providing chances for boating, fishing, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. Hasanabad Lake is a hidden treasure that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, making it a must-visit for those seeking tranquility in Pakistan.
Location: Hassanabad Valley, Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,750 meters (9,020 ft)
Hrkolong Lake is at an elevation of 4,126 meters (13,537 feet) in the Khaplu Valley region of Gilgit-Baltistan, northern Pakistan. The lake provides water to the surrounding communities of Khaplu and Sumo.
Location: Khaplu Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,126 meters (13,537 ft)
Paristan Lake, discovered in 2018 by mountaineers in the Skardu region of Gilgit-Baltistan, stands at an impressive 4,767 meters (15,641 feet) above sea level, making it the highest lake in Pakistan and one of the highest in the world.
Location: Skardu, Skardu District
Shimshal Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Upper Hunza. The nearby Shimshal hamlet, at 13,000 feet above sea level, is considered the highest village in the region. Melted glacier water accumulates in the lake through seasonal streams, making it a crucial nesting and staging area for various migratory birds and ducks as part of the famous Indus Flyway.
Every year, countless travelers from across the globe flock to this breathtaking destination, leaving them in awe of the stunning beauty that Pakistan has to offer.
Location: Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,755 meters (15,600 feet)
Another beautiful lake near Skardu, Upper Kachura Lake, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and a depth of approximately 230 feet. Although it is not as popular as Lower Kachura Lake due to the complex terrain and challenging walk, it offers stunning scenery. In spring, apricot orchards flourish around the lake, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, freezing even the deep waters.
Location: Skardu District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 2,500 meters (8,200 feet)
Ansoo Lake, in the Mansehra District of Kaghan Valley, is a high-altitude lake in Pakistan that is well worth exploring. Its unusual teardrop shape attracts many tourists and trekkers. Nestled in the Himalayan Mountains near Malika Parbat, it is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan.
The lake takes on the shape of a human eye, with a frozen island at its center that resembles the iris. Above the lake, a ridge appears like an eyebrow, particularly when the snow melts during summer. This lake was discovered in 1993 by a low-flying aircraft.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 4,245 meters (13,927 feet)
Baghsar Lake is in the Samahni Valley of the Bhimber District, Azad Kashmir. It sits at an altitude of 975 meters above sea level and is approximately half a kilometer long. The area around the lake is home to many local and migratory birds, including ducks and geese, as well as water lilies, pine trees, and lily blossoms. Nearby, visitors can explore Mughal Fort, a four-story granite structure perched on a hill overlooking the lake.
Location: Samahni Valley, Bhimber District
Altitude: 975 meters (3,199 ft)
Bashkargol Lake is a hidden gem in the Chitral District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The lake is large and stunning, offering different appearances at various times of day; it reflects a serene, mirror-like surface in the morning and resembles a shore or sea in the evening. Located 24 kilometers from the Sor Laspur settlement, reaching Bashkargol Lake requires a rugged and steep trail that follows a river flowing from the lake.
After crossing a stream from Manial Pass, the trek rises quickly in altitude. During our hike, we took a trail on the left side of the river, although another smoother route was visible on the opposite bank.
Location: Chitral Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 3,652 meters (11,982 ft)
Chitta Katha, meaning White Stream, is a picturesque lake in Shounter Valley. It serves as the source for the stream of the same name, flowing through the area. Those considering a trip to Kashmir will likely find themselves at the Kel base camp, from where you can explore this stunning lake. A 20-kilometer jeep road narrows into a 5-kilometer trekking trail leading to the lake.
Location: Shounter Valley, Lakes in Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 3,962 meters (12,999 feet)
Dudipatsar Lake is within the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park in the Kaghan Valley. The name translates to White Mountain Lake, referring to the surrounding snow-covered peaks. Also known as Dudipat Lake, it is a four to five-hour trek from Upper Kaghan Valley.
Dudipatsar Lake is nestled in the far north of the Kaghan Valley, approximately a four-hour drive from the main town of Naran. This stunning lake conjures up images of beauty, elegance, and serenity. For centuries, the breathtaking views of Lake Dudipatsar (also known as Lake Dudipat) have captivated both artists and travelers alike.
While it may not be the largest lake in the world, no denying that it ranks among the most alluring. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the scenery exudes a cinematic charm that draws in nature lovers. Here, one can escape the daily grind and immerse oneself in a tranquil realm, far removed from the chaos of life. Lakes like Dudipatsar invite travelers to lose themselves in the splendor of natural bounty.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 3,800 meters (12,500 feet)
Located at an elevation of 14,100 feet above sea level, Karambar Lake is the second-highest lake in Pakistan and the 32nd-highest alpine lake in the world. You can reach either through Broghil in Chitral or from Chapursan in Gilgit-Baltistan. However, the route from Gilgit-Baltistan is challenging and technical, so most visitors prefer to travel via Chitral, taking the route through Mastuj, Yarkhun Lasht, Broghil, and Lashkargaz.
When planning your journey, be aware that the road conditions can be more challenging. Always hire a local jeep along with a driver for a smoother experience. The trek from Lashkargaz to Karambar Lake spans approximately 23 kilometers one way, so being in good physical shape is crucial for this hike. The area is clean, and the lake itself is breathtaking. It’s a true adventure that you won’t want to miss!
Location: Ishkoman Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: 4,272 meters (14,016 feet)
Lalusar Lake is in the far north of the Kaghan district, within a valley surrounded by towering mountains. The significant elevation of these mountains keeps them snow-covered year-round, while the lake is in a unique zone that allows water flow during certain months of the year.
After a drive of about one and a half hours on the N15 highway from Naran, we arrived at the magnificent Lalusar Lake, which sits at an elevation of 3,410 meters (11,190 feet).
It serves as the primary headwaters for the Kunhar River, which flows southwest through the entire length of the Kaghan Valley, passing through Jalkhand, Naran, Kaghan, Jared, Paras, and Balakot until it merges with the Jhelum River. Lalusar Lake is located approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) from Naran and is accessible by any vehicle.
Location: Naran Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 3,410 meters (11,188 feet)
Mahodand Lake, meaning “Lake of Fishes,” is located in the upper part of Usho Valley, about 40 miles from Kalam. Reaching the lake requires a 4×4 vehicle.
Upon our arrival, you are immediately captivated by the stunning beauty of Mahodand Lake, where the crystal-clear waters perfectly reflected the lush greenery that surrounded us. This breathtaking sight instantly lifted our spirits, washing away the fatigue from our journey.
One of the highlights of our trip was the boat ride on Mahodand Lake. Gliding across the tranquil waters, with magnificent peaks and verdant forests standing guard around us, felt absolutely enchanting. This experience offered a new viewpoint on the landscape, enabling you to appreciate its untamed beauty.
Another unforgettable moment was savoring freshly caught trout, expertly prepared by local vendors. Grilled to perfection over an open fire, the fish was a delightful culinary treat that showcased the region’s rich flavors.
The lake, situated in the foothills of the Hindukush Mountains, is surrounded by lush forests and meadows, enhancing its charm. It also serves as one of the principal sources of the Swat River.
Location: Kalam Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 2,900 meters (9,500 feet)
Manchar Lake is the largest lake in Pakistan, located west of the Indus River between the Jamshoro and Dadu districts in Sindh. It is just 18 kilometers from Sehwan Sharif. This natural freshwater lake has an elevation of 35 meters (115 feet) and covers an area of approximately 228 to 250 square kilometers (88 to 97 square miles).
It has a maximum length of 23.5 kilometers (14.6 miles) and a maximum width of 12.08 kilometers (7.51 miles). The lake occasionally receives floodwaters from the river. At its southern end, Laki Hills surrounds the Manchar Lake, which is part of the Kirthar Mountain Range, contributing to its status as the largest lake in Pakistan.
Location: Sindh
Pyala Lake is at an elevation of 3,410 meters (11,190 feet) above sea level in the Kaghan Valley, Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Naran and can be accessed while traveling from Naran to Babusar, passing by LuluSar Lake. The journey to the lake offers breathtaking views of the magnificent River Kunhar, along with some of the most stunning waterfalls. This round, undeveloped lake is located on a hill in the center of Lulusar Lake, near Naran.
According to local legend, Pyala Lake was formed long ago by a falling star known as Shahab-e-Saqib. Highlands, gardens, and mountains surround it, which enhance its beauty. When the waters of the lake are clear, the reflection of the mountains is breathtaking. The serene landscape and gentle winds create a tranquil atmosphere that inspires introspection and creativity.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 3,410 meters (11,190 feet)
Ratti Gali Lake is a high-altitude lake in Pakistan, nourished by glacial runoff from the surrounding mountains. Its beauty has inspired writers for years, as the lush green grass, wildflowers, and gentle breezes create a unique atmosphere. The only way to reach this lake is by hiking from the Dowarian base camp, which is accessible by a 2.5-hour drive in a 4×4 vehicle, followed by a one-hour hike up the mountain.
Location: Neelum Valley, Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Altitude: 3,698 meters (12,130 feet)
Saif-ul-Muluk Lake is located near Naran, at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, covering an area of 2.5 square kilometers at an elevation of over 3,100 meters (10,000 feet). It is one of the highest and most picturesque lakes within Pakistan, with a depth of approximately 15 meters. Additionally, snow-capped mountains encircle this lake and melting glaciers continuously supply it with water. This lake serves as the primary source of the Kunhar River. Saiful Muluk Lake is about a 30-minute jeep ride from Naran Valley.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 3,224 meters (10,578 feet)
Swaik Lake, also known as Khandoa Lake, is located near the town of Khandoa. This stunning blue-green lake has waterfalls and is ideal for swimming or picnicking. However, it is less frequented by tourists due to its remote location. A 45-minute walk from the M2 highway will lead you to this hidden oasis, surrounded by lush vegetation, where activities such as cliff diving and trekking are available.
Location: Khandoa Village, Kallar Kahar Tehsil, Chakwal District, Punjab
Altitude: 754 meters (2,474 feet)
Uchhali Lake stands out as the crown jewel of the tourist attractions. It came into existence due to inadequate drainage. Towering above the lake is Sakaser, the highest peak of Salt Range, soaring to an impressive altitude of 1,522 meters (4,993 feet). While the saline waters of Uchhali Lake are devoid of life and swimming is discouraged, the stunning landscape it offers is hard to beat.
Interestingly, those suffering specific skin conditions may experience some relief from the waters. Visitors can take advantage of available boating options, and each year, the lake attracts hundreds of migratory birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.
Location: Soan Sakaser Valley, Salt Range
Altitude: 1,522 meters (4,993 feet)
Namal Lake is near Rikhi, a village at the corner of the Namal Valley in Mianwali District, Punjab, Pakistan. In 1913, following the construction of the Namal Dam, located approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Mianwali city. The lake covers a surface area of 5.5 square kilometers (2.1 square miles), with mountains flanking its western and southern sides.
In addition, the agricultural land surrounds the remaining two sides. Namal Lake serves as a popular picnic destination for tourists from nearby districts. It is also a habitat for waterfowl, including Russian ducks and Siberian cranes, which migrate to the area in winter.
Location: Mianwali, Punjab
Payee Lake is in the heart of the Payee Meadows near Shogran in Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It stands at an altitude of over 2,895 meters (9,498 feet). Moreover, the majestic mountains of Kashmir surround it, including Malika Parbat, Musa ka Musala, and Makra Peak. A jeep route connects Kiwai to Shogran and then leads to the lake.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 2,895 meters (9,498 feet)
Hanna Lake is a picturesque body of water located in the Urak Valley of Balochistan, situated near Quetta. Mountains border it and serve as a significant attraction in the region. Hanna Lake is easily accessible and is a favorite tourist destination. The area also features a lakeside café surrounded by pine trees, providing outdoor seating that is perfect for spending quality time with family and friends.
The Hayyat Durrani Water Sports Authority (HDWSA) is to the east of Hanna Lake. The lake covers an area of 818 acres and has a storage capacity of 220 million gallons.
Location: Quetta, Balochistan
Altitude: 1,898 meters (6,227 feet)
Dudipatsar Lake is in Naran Lakes, within the stunning Upper Kaghan Valley. From Baisal, a trail winds its way to Mula ki Basti, a quaint summer settlement for shepherds, which typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to reach. To access the stunning lake, trekkers need to walk an additional 1.5 hours from this town.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Drigh Lake is in the Qambar Shahdadkot District of Sindh, Pakistan. It is approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles) from Larkana and 7 kilometers (4 miles) from Qambar town. The lake spans a surface area of 408 acres (165 hectares), with a length of about 5.64 miles from north to south.
Location: Qambar Shahdadkot District, Sindh
Hadero Lake, located in the Thatta district of Sindh, is one of the most prominent brackish-water lakes in the region. Approximately 85 kilometers from Karachi, it was established as a wildlife sanctuary by the Sindh government in 1977 to preserve and protect the unique fauna in and around the lake. Hadero Lake is a natural body of water situated in a shallow depression amidst the stony deserts, covering a surface area of 1,321 hectares. It is significant to support a diverse range of birds. Adequate safeguards are in place to protect the lives of these birds.
Location: Thatta District, Sindh
Haleji Lake, situated in the Thatta District of Sindh Province, Pakistan, is a significant freshwater body spanning approximately 6.58 square kilometers. Surrounded by marshes and brackish lagoons, the lake serves as an essential source of water for the local area.
Moreover, it offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching, making it a popular spot for both residents and visitors alike. Haleji Lake serves as an essential habitat for several rare and endangered species in addition to providing irrigation water for nearby residents.
Location: Thatta, Sindh
Hamal Lake is found in the Qambar Shahdadkot District of Sindh, Pakistan, approximately 58 kilometers from Larkana and 40 kilometers from Qambar. The lake is 25 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, covering a surface area of 2,965 acres (1,200 hectares).
It is a freshwater lake, primarily fed by streams flowing through the Kirthar Mountains. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and lush green plains create a beautiful and serene environment. Visitors are captivated by its stunning views, especially during the mornings and sunsets.
Location: Qambar Shahdadkot District, Sindh
Jahlar Lake offers visitors a tranquil escape, surrounded by natural beauty that evokes a sense of calm. It is one of the least visited lakes in the valley due to its remote location, near the settlement of Jahlar. The lake’s surface area is 148 acres, and it attracts migratory birds in the winter, while providing a unique habitat during the summer. The water here is excessively acidic; wash your laundry without soap.
Unlike Uchali and Khabeki Lakes, Jahlar Lake does not have facilities for boating or fishing. You can visit this lake via two paths: one from Kathwayi to Jahlar (for those coming from the Sargodha side) and another from Naushera to Surakki, ultimately leading to Jahlar. extremely
Location: Soon Valley, Punjab
Altitude: 828 meters (2,717 feet)
Kallar Kahar Lake is in Chakwal District, Punjab. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, and the construction of the Lahore-Islamabad motorway has made it even more accessible, contributing to its rapid rise in popularity. This lovely lake attracts those seeking a peaceful getaway close to nature. The local government established a museum with a gigantic collection of artifacts to attract tourists. The lake spans approximately 9 to 10 kilometers and has a depth of between 10 and 15 feet. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, motorboating, and pedal boating.
Location: Chakwal District, Punjab
Also known as Keenjhar Dhand or Keenjhar Jheel, Keenjhar Lake is an artificial reservoir situated in the center of Thatta District, Sindh, where it is known as Karli Jheel. The lake is located 36 kilometers (approximately a 30-minute drive) from Thatta and is the second-largest freshwater reservoir in Pakistan. It has a depth of 7.92 meters.
Location: Thatta, Sindh
Altitude: 21 meters (69 ft)
Khabikki Lake is a saltwater lake located in Khushab District, Punjab, within the southern Salt Range area of the Soan Sakaser Valley. The lake came into existence due to poor drainage. It is designated as a Ramsar site and is part of the Uchhali Wetlands Complex. The lake spans two kilometers in length and one kilometer in width.
On the right side, there is a gentle ascent, and the nearby village is also called Khabikki. Visitors can find two accommodations and boat services available. The TDCP has developed a fully functional leisure resort here, complete with all the necessary amenities and easy access from the main road.
Location: Khushab District, Punjab
Kundol Lake, also known as Kundol Dand, is situated north of Utror Valley in the Swat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It is approximately 20.8 kilometers (12.9 miles) away from Kalam. According to local mythology, the lake contains a golden bowl at its center that appears every night and a moon-like glow. Despite its captivating sight, locals are hesitant to approach the bowl due to its powerful and eerie charm.
Located at an altitude of 9,950 feet above sea level, it is a pristine gem surrounded by the towering peaks of the Hindu Kush Mountains, which surround the Kundol Lake. It boasts rich greenery and spectacular snow-capped mountains. You can explore by following the majestic stream that flows from the lake into the Kalam Valley, where it meets the Swat Lakes.
Location: Utror, Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 2,743 meters (8,999 ft)
Saral Lake, located in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, is positioned at an altitude of 13,600 meters (4,100 meters) above sea level. The initial view of the valley from the 1,400-meter-high Saral Pass is stunning, presenting a pristine valley that leads down to the lake. Despite its lovely name, Saral Lake is even more breathtaking in person.
It can be seen for miles due to its deep positioning below the surface and is visible from Saral Gali. As a hidden lake that sees few visitors, it remains largely unexplored and pristine. This picturesque lake captivates viewers from afar and enchants them even more up close, attracting trekkers with its sapphire-blue waters and white swan-shaped icebergs floating on its surface.
Location: Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Altitude: 4,100 meters (13,500 ft)
Shounter Lake is in Shounter Valley, a smaller valley within the larger Neelum Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The lake sits at an altitude of approximately 10,200 feet above sea level and is known as the Pearl of Shounter Valley. It is only accessible in the summer months, from June to August, when the ice melts and a jeep track becomes viable. Fed by nearby glaciers, Shounter Lake offers pristine and tranquil surroundings.
The lush green mountains reflected in the crystal-clear blue waters create a breathtaking scene. During summer, the area is adorned with a variety of colorful wildflowers, enhancing the alluring landscape. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for introspection and relaxation, appealing to nature lovers due to the biodiversity, which includes many bird species and small creatures.
Location: Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Siri Lake is located in the Kaghan Valley, near Shogran, along the route to Payee. It sits at an altitude of approximately 2,590 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level. The distance between Siri Lake and Paye Lake is about 2.6 kilometers. Siri Lake has a sister lake called Payee Lake.
Siri Lake offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Unfortunately, tourists diminish its natural beauty, and tend to overlook this area during their travels to Naran. The lake is surrounded by the picturesque Kashmiri highlands, Malika Parbat, Makra Peak, and Musa ka Musala, making it one of the most exquisite locations in Northern Pakistan. The Siri Paye Meadows, which includes both Siri and Paye lakes, is a breathtaking spot where nature truly exists.
Location: Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Altitude: 2,590 meters (8,500 ft)
Spin Khwar Lake, also known as White Stream Lake, is in Utror Valley, Kalam, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The lake is at an elevation of roughly 9,500 feet above sea level. To reach the lake, visitors embark on a scenic journey from Mingora, navigating through winding roads and breathtaking landscapes.
As visitors arrive at Spin Khwar Lake, a breathtaking showcase of natural beauty welcomes you. The sparkling turquoise waters beautifully mirror the surrounding mountains, creating a truly mesmerizing scene. The melting glaciers nourish this stunning lake located near the nearby peaks, which play a crucial role in preserving its pristine allure. With its tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled environment, Spin Khwar Lake is the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
Location: Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
