Balakot Mansehra
Balakot is the iconic gateway town to Kaghan Valley sitting at 980 meters on the Kunhar River famous for historic shrines and mountain transit hubs.
ExploreNaran Town Kaghan Valley
Naran, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Situated eighty two kilometers past Balakot along the N15 highway at an elevation of 2409 meters above sea level Naran is the undisputed commercial heart and primary tourist basecamp of Kaghan Valley Mansehra District Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Nestled alongside the fast-flowing Kunhar River and framed by towering snow-capped Himalayan peaks Naran serves as the central springboard for exploring world famous northern landmarks including Lake Saiful Muluk Ansoo Lake Lulusar Lake Babusar Pass and Lalazar Meadows. Offering hundreds of hotels bustling night bazaars 4x4 jeep safari terminals trout fish eateries and riverside walking promenades Naran delivers an iconic alpine valley experience for families adventure trekkers and summer holidaymakers in Pakistan.
Highlights
- Undisputed central tourism hub and commercial basecamp of Kaghan Valley at 2409 meters
- Primary gateway to Lake Saiful Muluk Babusar Pass Lulusar Lake and Lalazar
- Situated directly along the rushing Kunhar River surrounded by snow-draped peaks
- Vibrant alpine night market offering local handicrafts woolen shawls and street food
- Premier venue for 4x4 jeep safaris river rafting trout fishing and alpine trekking
Things To Do
- Board an adventurous 4x4 jeep safari from Naran bazaar up to the iconic Lake Saiful Muluk
- Stroll through the bustling Naran main bazaar for hot street food shawls and souvenirs
- Feast on fresh fried Kunhar River trout fish served hot at open air riverside restaurants
- Experience white water river rafting and riverside camping along the cold Kunhar River
- Take a full day excursion north along the N15 highway to Lulusar Lake and Babusar Pass
Local Transportation
Accessible via the fully paved N15 National Highway 82 km from Balakot using personal cars, public buses, or passenger vans. Local 4x4 jeeps operate for off-road lake excursions.
Accommodation
Hundreds of options available including Rose Valley Hotel, Hotel De Manchi, Pine Park Naran, Maisonette Hotel, and extensive budget to mid-range family hotels along the main road.
Food & Cuisine
Main bazaar restaurants serve fresh fried Kunhar River trout fish, mutton karahi, chicken chapli kabab, fresh flatbreads, and hot green Kahwa tea.
Safety Information
Highly safe, well populated, and family friendly tourist town with active local police checkpoints, medical camps, and rescue facilities.
Travel Tips
Withdraw sufficient physical cash from ATMs in Balakot or Naran town before heading on 4x4 jeep excursions to Lake Saiful Muluk or Babusar Pass.