Pakistan is rich in both natural and artificial lakes. The Gilgit Baltistan region, in particular, is home to a significant number of lakes—approximately 500—that remain unknown and unnamed even to the locals. There are more than 60 prominent lakes in Pakistan, comprising 51 natural lakes and 9 artificial lakes. Nonetheless, both types of lakes are celebrated for their unique beauty and appeal.
Nestled in the picturesque Jamshoro District of Sindh, Manchar Lake is the largest lake in Pakistan, spanning an impressive 260 square kilometers. Renowned for its natural beauty, it is a freshwater lake that holds the title of being the largest of its kind in South Asia, attracting visitors with its serene waters and vibrant ecosystems.
This stunning artificial reservoir graces the landscape of Khanpur District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). Created to serve multiple purposes, Khanpur Lake is a hub for recreation and water sports, surrounded by lush hills offering breathtaking views.
Located near the charming city of Rawalkot in the Poonch District of Azad Jammu Kashmir, Banjosa Lake is an enchanting artificial lake. Enveloped by dense pine forests and gently rolling hills, it captivates visitors with its tranquil ambiance and picturesque surroundings.
Known for its stunning turquoise waters, Attabad Lake is a natural marvel located in the breathtaking Hunza Valley of Gilgit Baltistan. Formed in 2010 as a result of a massive landslide that blocked the Hunza River, it has become the largest lake in Gilgit Baltistan, enchanting all who visit with its striking beauty.
With an area of 0.21 square kilometers, Barah Lake is a hidden gem in the Barah Valley of Gilgit Baltistan. This tranquil natural lake invites nature lovers to explore its serene environment and enjoy the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Situated near the upper reaches of Hunza Valley in Gilgit Baltistan, Batura Lake is predominantly fed by glacial meltwater. Its stunning backdrop of towering peaks and vibrant blue waters makes it a breathtaking site for those trekking in the region.
A fascinating natural saltwater lake, Borith Lake is found in the picturesque Gojal Village of Hunza Valley in Gilgit Baltistan. Its unique ecosystem and stunning vistas draw adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Alternately known as Handarap Lake, this captivating lake is nestled in the Ghizar Valley of Gilgit Baltistan. Surrounded by verdant valleys and majestic mountains, it presents a tranquil escape into nature.
Also referred to as Shispare Lake, Hasanabad Lake is formed by the glacial melt from the Shispare Glacier. With an area of 0.35 square kilometers, it is continually evolving, showcasing the breathtaking dynamics of nature.
As the highest lake in Pakistan and the highest alpine lake in the world, Rush Lake is a remarkable natural wonder located in Nagar Valley, Gilgit Baltistan. Its remote setting and stunning alpine scenery make it a coveted destination for adventurous trekkers.
Spanning 4.5 square kilometers, Satpara Lake is a stunning freshwater lake in the Skardu Valley of Gilgit Baltistan. It is the second largest lake in the region, following Attabad Lake, and is renowned for its dramatic backdrop of towering mountains.
This pristine lake is situated on the Deosai Plateau, renowned as the highest plateau in the world. Its natural beauty and tranquil environment contribute to the captivating embrace of Gilgit Baltistan.
A pair of stunning lakes nestled in the remote regions of Gilgit Baltistan, the Shimshal Lakes offer breathtaking views and a rare glimpse into the natural beauty of this untouched area.
Located in the Skardu District of Gilgit Baltistan, Upper Kachura Lake is a hidden treasure surrounded by apricot trees. With a depth of 70 meters, its crystal-clear waters are a true oasis, inviting exploration despite the challenging terrain.
Found in the scenic Kaghan Valley in Mansehra District of KPK, Ansoo Lake is an artificial lake shaped like a teardrop, adding to its allure and mystique.
Recognized as the 33rd highest lake in the world, Karambar Lake stretches 3.9 kilometers in length and reaches depths of 52 meters. Tucked away in Chitral, it offers a unique perspective on the rugged landscapes of the region.
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1977, Hadero Lake is an artificial saltwater lake situated in Sindh. Its diverse ecosystem and natural beauty make it a vital area for conservation.
The largest waterfowl reserve area in Asia, Haleji Lake is an artificial lake located in Thatta, Sindh. Its rich avian population and serene waters provide a captivating experience for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
This artificial saltwater lake graces the Chakwal district of Punjab. Known for its serene beauty and recreational opportunities, Kallar Kahar Lake is an ideal place to unwind amidst nature.
One of the largest freshwater lakes in Pakistan, Keenjhar Lake is found in Thatta, Sindh. Surrounded by rich folklore, it boasts a unique charm that captivates visitors from afar.
Located near Khabikki Village in Khushab District, Punjab, this artificial saltwater lake offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and appreciation of nature’s beauty.
Situated in the splendid Naran Valley of KPK, Lulusar Lake is celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and the adjacent baby lake that complements its charm. It serves as the primary source of the Kunhar River, making it an essential natural landmark.
Located in Kaghan Valley, KPK, Saif ul Malook Lake covers an area of 2.5 square kilometers. Renowned for its enchanting scenery and mythological significance, it draws visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Nestled in the heart of Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, at an elevation of 13,500 feet (4,100 meters), this lake is a tranquil oasis surrounded by steep, barren, and snow-covered mountains. The trek ranges from moderate to hard, making it a rewarding adventure for those who seek to push their limits. The true essence of this journey lies not just in reaching the lake but in soaking in the unparalleled beauty of Kashmir’s landscapes along the way. The stunning contrast of the vibrant lake against the stark surroundings can leave you awe-struck.
The mesmerizing beauty of this location is truly captivating. Situated near Domel, a village in the remote Minimerg Valley of the Astor District, Rainbow Lake may be small, but it is breathtaking. Fed by freshwater streams from the surrounding mountains, the lake features crystal-clear water that shifts in color from turquoise to green at different times of the day.
Rainbow Lake is home to sizable brown trout, making it a popular spot for trout anglers. However, access to Rainbow Lake is not easy. You can reach the Minimerg Valley and the lake via the Burzil Pass, which is approximately 14500 feet high and remains closed for 7-8 months of the year due to heavy snowfall.
Katwal Lake is a high-altitude body of water located at an elevation of about 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level. It is encircled by the stunning Haramosh Peak, which rises to approximately 7,397 meters (24,268 feet). The lake is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning mountainous scenery, and tranquil ambiance.
To access Katwal Lake, one generally needs to start a trekking expedition from the nearby village of Dassu in Haramosh Valley. The trek provides a chance to appreciate the valley’s scenic beauty, including lush meadows, rocky landscapes, and flowing streams.
The lake’s calm water was shrouded in a mystical veil as the clouds above cast a gentle shadow across its surface. The colorful wildflowers that bloomed along the lake’s edges seemed to glow with an ethereal light as if lit from within. The soft, grayish hue of the clouds’ shadow emphasized the vibrant colors of the flowers and the deep blue of the lake, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
The air was quiet and still, with only the occasional rustle of leaves or chirp of a bird breaking the silence at Saral Lake. The clouds’ shadow added a touch of drama and mystery to the scene, making it seem like a hidden world tucked away from the rest of reality.
Recommended Read: Lakes in Naran Kaghan
| Name | Elevation | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheosar Lake | 4,250 metres (13,940 ft) | Deosai Plain | Need jeep ride for 2-hour to reach at this pristine lake. |
| Katpana Lake | 2,226 metres (7,303 ft) | Hussainabad | 10 km away from the police line of Skardu town in Cold Desert |
| Blind Lake | 4,142 meters (13,589 feet) | Shigar Valley | This exotic lake located on the way to Shigar Valley. |
| Shangrilla Lake | 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) | Kachura Village | 30 mins drive from Skardu City also Lower Kachura Lake |
| Upper Kachura Lake | 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) | Kachura Village | It is 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) from Lower Kachura Lake. |
| Satpara Lake | 2,636 meters (8,650 ft) | Sadpara Skardu | Just 30-mins away from Skardu on way to Deosai Plain |
| Rama Lake | 3,507 meters (11,506 feet) | Rama Meadows | 11 km away from Astore Valley. |
| Kutwal Lake | 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) | Haramosh Valley | Trail Length is 19 km (12 mi) & Hike Duration is 7 to 9 Hours |
| Rainbow Lake | 10,250 feet | Minimarg Domail | Rainbow Lake is located near Domel village of Minimerg Valley |
| Name | Elevation | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheosar Lake | 4,142 meters (13,589 feet) | Deosai Plain | Alpine Lake 2-hour off-road track from Skardu |
| Attabad Lake | 2,559 metres (8,396 ft) | Upper Hunza | Created in 2010 Massive Land Slide Upper Hunza |
| Borith Lake | 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) | Hussaini Village Gojal | 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) by road from main Hunza |
| Sadpara Lake | 2,636 meters (8,650 ft) | Deosai Road Skardu | 30-minutes drive from Skardu City |
| Blind Lake | 4,142 meters (13,589 feet) | Shigar Valley | You can visit on the way to Shigar Valley. |
| Rainbow Lake | 10,250 feet | Domail Minimarg | You can visit on 4x4 from Astore Valley |
| Shangrilla Lake | 2,500 meters (8,200 ft) | Kachura Village Skardu | 30 mins drive from Skardu 500 Ticket Price |
| Phandar Lake | 2,907.6 meters (9,539 feet) | Phandar Valley | Situated in the Phander Village, in Koh-i-Ghizer, Gupis-Yasin |
| Naltar Lakes | 3,050–3,150 metres | Naltar Valley | 2-hour Jeep drive from Nomal & 3-hour from Gilgit |
| Upper Kachura Lake | 2,500 meters (8,200 ft) | Kachura Village | 30-minutes from Shangrilla & 1-hour from Skardu drive |
| Katpana Lake | 2,226 meters (7,303 feet) | Skardu Katpana Desert | Located in Katpana Lake 45-minutes from Skardu |
| Rush Lake | 4,694 meters (15,400 ft) | Nagar Valley | Higher Alpine Lake 2-day tough trekking |
| Name | Elevation | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chitta Katha Lake | 13,500 feet (4,100 meters) | Shounter Valley | KEL to Shounter Valley 2-hour Jeep Ride and 9 km long trek (2 days) |
| Ratti Gali Lake | 3,683 metres (12,083 ft) | Neelum Valley Kashmir | 2-hour jeep track from Dowarian 1-hour trek afterwards |
| Spoon Lakes AJK | 10,200 feet (3,100 meters) | Shounter Valley | 12 km from KEL to Lake via Jeep Ride & 1-hour Short Trek |
| Shounter Lake | 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) | Shounter Kashmir | 10 km from KEL & 3 km floral trek from Shounter Village |
| Banjosa Lake | 1,981 meters (6,499 feet) | Rawalakot Kashmir | 18 kilometers from Rawalakot. Hotels Available at Lake |
| Saral Lake | 13,600 feet (4,100 meters) | Neelum Valley Kaghan | Can visit from Dudipatsar Lake & Noori Top from Kashmir |
| Hans Raj Lake | 12500 feet | Noori Nar Top | 2-hour trek from Ratti Gali Lake Kashmir |
| Zalzal Lakes | 1570 meters | Chikkar, Azad Kashmir | 55-km away from Muzaffarabad Capital of Kashmir |
| Dharamsar Lake | 4,100 meters (13,451 feet) | Kaghan Valley | 2-hour jeep track from Babusar Top Upper Kaghan Valley |
| Kalasar Lake | 3900 meters | Upper Neelum Valley | 3-hour trek from Ratti Gali Lake. 1 hour trek from Hans Raj Lake |
| Name | Elevation | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saif ul Malook Lake | 3,224 meters (10,578 feet) | Naran Kaghan | 30 minutes jeep off-road track from Naran to cover 8 km |
| Lulusar Lake | 3,410 meters (11,190 feet) | Upper Kaghan | 3-hour carpeted road from Naran & 1-hour from Babusar Top |
| Pyala Lake | 3,410 metres (11,190 ft) | Upper Kaghan | 2-hour drive from Naran located in Jhalkand Village |
| Ansoo Lake | 4,126 meters (13,537 feet) | Naran Kaghan | 4-hour trek from Saif ul Malook Lake in Lap of Malika Parbat |
| Dudipatsar Lake | 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) | Kaghan Valley | 5-hour trek from Besal & 2-hour trek from Mulla ki Basti |
| Sambaksar Lake | 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) | Babusar Top Kaghan | Located in Gitti Das Meadows 2-hour jeep ride from Babusar |
| Dharamsar Lake | 4,100 meters (13,451 feet) | Babusar Top Kaghan | Perched in Gitti Das Meadows 2.5 hours jeep track from Babusar |
| Sat Sari Mala Lakes | 3,050 meters (10,000 feet) | Babusar Top Kaghan | 7-alpine-lakes in Upper Kaghan Valley near Gitti Das Meadows |
| Siri Lake | 8,500 feet (2,590 meters) | Shogran Valley | 2-hour off road track from Shogran right before Paye Meadows |
| Paya Lake | 2,895 meters (9,498 feet) | Shogran Valley | 2.5 hours Adventurous Jeep track from Shogran & 10 mins trek |
| Name | Elevation | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saifullah Lake | 9,550 feet (2,910 meters) | Upper Mataltan Kalam | Alpine Glacial Lake north of Kalam Valley 1 hour from Mahudand Lake |
| Kundol Lake | (9,950 ft) | Utror Valley Swat | 1.5 hour jeep track to Lado Village then 3 to 4 hours trek |
| Mahudand Lake | 9,400 feet (2,850 meters) | Upper Mataltan Kalam | 2-hour off road track from Kalam Valley cost 12000 |
| Katora Lake | 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) | Jahaz Banda Kohistan | 3-hour trek from Jahaz Banda Meadows one way |
| Daral Lake | 11,500 feet (3,505.2 m) | Bahrain Gabin Jabba | Total trek time from Gabin Jaba to Daral lake is 6-8 hours |
| Andrab Lake | 3630 feet | Swat Kohistan | Also known KOOH Lake in Ankara Valley 3 hour trek |
| Izmis Lake | 11,500 feet (3,505 meters) | Utror Valley Swat | 13 kilometres above Utror bazaar in Swat valley take 3 to 4 hour trek. |
| Spin Khwar Lake | 3,683 meters | Utror Valley Kalam | 2-hour scenic trek from Kundol Lake Swat |
| Shaitan Gwat Lake | 13,404 feet (4,080 meters) | Bahrain Valley Swat | 15-hour trek from Kedam Valley which take 2 days one side |
| Bashigram Lake | 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) | Madyan Swat | 1-hour drive to Bashigram Valley then 4 to 5 hours easy trek |