Head Islam and Head Sulaimanki Sutlej River
Head Islam and Head Sulaimanki are historic 1920s Sutlej River headworks and eco-tourism wetlands serving as key irrigation centers and migratory bird sanctuaries in southern Punjab.
ExploreUchali Lake and Kanhatti Garden Khushab
Naushera Soon Valley, Punjab
Overview
Situated in the scenic heart of Soon Valley in Khushab District Punjab Uchali Lake and Kanhatti Garden form a premier nature and eco-tourism destination in the Salt Range. Uchali Lake is the largest brackish saltwater lake in Soon Valley spanning over 943 hectares at the base of Mount Sakesar the highest peak in the Salt Range. Designated as an internationally protected Ramsar wetland site Uchali serves as a critical winter refuge for thousands of rare migratory waterfowl including flamingos white-headed ducks and Siberian pochards. Located just a short drive away Kanhatti Garden is a historic botanical sanctuary established during the British colonial era in 1933 featuring natural freshwater springs stone channels lush orchards of blood oranges almonds and lemons along with cascading natural waterfalls and paved forest walking tracks.
Highlights
- Uchali Lake is the largest brackish saltwater wetland in Soon Valley nestled beneath Mount Sakesar
- Internationally protected Ramsar wetland site acting as a major winter sanctuary for Siberian migratory birds
- Prime birdwatching hub for rare species including flamingos white-headed ducks and wild geese
- Kanhatti Garden is a historic 1933 British-era plantation featuring natural freshwater springs and streams
- Lush orchards of blood-red oranges mandarins almonds and lemons surrounded by pine-forested hills
- Features paved walking nature tracks camping sites gazebos and natural stone waterfalls
Things To Do
- Spot thousands of migratory Siberian birds and pink flamingos from birdwatching vantage points at Uchali Lake
- Walk through the lush citrus and almond orchards of Kanhatti Garden along natural stone water channels
- Enjoy family picnics near the natural freshwater springs and waterfalls inside Kanhatti Garden
- Photograph the striking reflections of Mount Sakesar on the vast saltwater surface of Uchali Lake
- Combine your trip with neighboring Soon Valley eco-tourism landmarks including Khabeki Lake and Jahlar Lake
Local Transportation
Located in Khushab District near Naushera town. Accessible via the M-2 Motorway exiting at Kallar Kahar Interchange onto Kallar Kahar-Naushera Road by private car sedan SUV or tourist coaster.
Accommodation
Eco-tourism destination. TDCP resort guest houses private eco-lodges forest rest houses and local tourist lodges are available in Naushera town Khabeki Lake and Kanhatti Garden.
Food & Cuisine
Canteens and local eateries available near Naushera and Kanhatti Garden. Enjoy fresh local citrus fruits Mutton Karahi Desi Murgh Karahi tandoori naan pakoras and hot cardamom tea.
Safety Information
Peaceful, secure eco-tourism destination. Wear flat comfortable walking shoes for stone tracks, stay clear of soft muddy wetland edges around Uchali Lake, and follow forest garden guidelines.
Travel Tips
Visit between November and February for peak birdwatching and fresh oranges, carry binoculars for spotting flamingos, wear comfortable walking shoes for garden tracks, and keep cash for local fruit purchases.