Tanda Dam Lake Kohat
Tanda Dam is a picturesque earth-fill dam and protected Ramsar wetland site in Kohat famous for serene blue lake waters migratory waterbirds boating and lush green surrounding hills.
ExploreSaifullah Lake Kalam Swat
Kalam, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Situated approximately thirty seven kilometers north of Kalam town and just two kilometers beyond Mahodand Lake at an elevation of 2900 meters above sea level Saifullah Lake is one of Upper Swats most pristine hidden alpine treasures. Named after a local valley pioneer who preserved its natural surrounding pastures the lake is fed directly by pure glacial meltwater flowing from snow capped Hindu Kush mountain ridges. Characterized by serene turquoise waters rolling alpine meadows carpeted with summer wildflowers and soaring deodar pine backdrop Saifullah Lake offers travelers a quiet undisturbed wilderness escape compared to busier lake sites. Accessible via a short scenic hike or local 4x4 track from Mahodand Lake Saifullah Lake is an ideal destination for high altitude nature photography trout fishing mountain walks and tranquil wilderness camping.
Highlights
- Hidden alpine glacial lake sitting at 2900 meters elevation in upper Ushu Valley
- Located just 2 kilometers further up the valley track beyond famous Mahodand Lake
- Crystal clear turquoise waters fed directly by melting snow glaciers and alpine streams
- Serene uncrowded alternative ideal for peaceful mountain walks photography and nature lovers
- Surrounded by dense pine forests green pasturelands and snow capped mountain peaks
Things To Do
- Take a peaceful short wilderness hike along the glacial stream from Mahodand Lake
- Photograph pristine mountain reflections on the mirror like clear lake surface
- Relax in quiet alpine pastures surrounded by wildflowers and towering mountain ridges
- Try wild trout fishing or watch local fish swimming in crystal clear shallow water
- Enjoy peaceful self-sustained wilderness camping under clear starry night skies
Local Transportation
Reached via a 4x4 jeep drive from Kalam to Mahodand Lake followed by a short 15 to 20 minute 2 km hike or off-road jeep drive further up the valley trail.
Accommodation
Wilderness camping in personal alpine tents on the lake pastures or wooden guest houses and hotels back in Kalam town 37 km away.
Food & Cuisine
Small local seasonal teahouses serve hot green Kahwa tea, boiled corn, pakoras, fresh fried river trout fish, and travel snacks.
Safety Information
Safe and peaceful high altitude location. Wear sturdy walking shoes for rocky stream trails and carry warm windproof jackets as alpine winds can be chilly.
Travel Tips
Combine your visit with Mahodand Lake and walk the 2 km connecting trail on foot to enjoy the pristine mountain scenery without vehicle noise.