Katora Lake Upper Dir
Katora Lake is a bowl shaped high altitude alpine glacial lake sitting at 3500 meters in Upper Dir near Jahaz Banda famous for emerald waters and snow peaks.
ExploreLulusar Lake Kaghan Valley
Naran, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Situated forty eight kilometers northeast of Naran town along the paved N15 highway at an elevation of 3410 meters above sea level Lulusar Lake is the largest natural body of water in Kaghan Valley Mansehra District Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Celebrated as the primary headwater source of the roaring Kunhar River Lulusar Lake is world renowned for its striking deep blue turquoise waters crescent shape and dramatic surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Positioned right beside the main highway en route to Babusar Pass Lulusar Lake offers travelers an easily accessible high altitude alpine experience featuring lakeside road stops photography viewpoints summer wildflower pastures and historical significance as the site of a 1857 British war memorial.
Highlights
- Largest natural alpine lake in Kaghan Valley sitting at 3410 meters elevation
- Primary headwater source and birthplace of the roaring Kunhar River
- Famous for mirror-like deep blue turquoise waters and crescent-shaped basin
- Directly accessible via the fully paved N15 National Highway en route to Babusar Pass
- Surrounded by snow-draped high mountain peaks alpine pastures and summer wildflowers
Things To Do
- Photograph stunning deep blue water reflections of snow capped peaks along the N15 highway
- Stop for hot green Kahwa tea and roadside snacks at high altitude view platforms
- Walk along the paved roadside shorelines to admire the origin headwaters of Kunhar River
- Capture landscape photos of wildflowers carpeting the surrounding alpine slopes
- Take a scenic road trip break while traveling north toward Babusar Top and Chilas
Local Transportation
Accessible via the fully paved N15 National Highway 48 km past Naran town using personal cars, public coasters, or hired local 4x4 jeeps.
Accommodation
Day trip stopover destination with basecamp hotels located 48 km down in Naran town, Besal, or Jhalkhand.
Food & Cuisine
Roadside tea stalls serve hot green Kahwa, boiled corn, pakoras, hot tea, cup noodles, and packaged travel snacks.
Safety Information
Safe and easily accessible roadside lake. Avoid stepping into cold mud near the lake edge, and wear warm windproof jackets as high altitude winds can be chilly.
Travel Tips
Visit during midday between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM for bright sunlight that highlights the brilliant deep turquoise-blue color of the lake water.