Lake Saif-ul-Malook
A legendary alpine lake below Malika Parbat, reached by jeep from Naran.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Naran & Kaghan
Alpine lakes and the Babusar road
1,000 m – 4,173 m Summer
Overview
The Kaghan valley climbs from pine forest at Balakot to alpine terrain at Naran and Lulusar, ending at the 4,173 m Babusar Pass.
It is busy in peak summer, which also makes it the easiest place to arrange transport, food and short jeep excursions at short notice.
Best time to visit
Late June to September, when Babusar Pass and the high lakes are usually open.
Weather & season guidance: Demo placeholder — snow can close the pass early or late in the season.
How to get there
- Drive Islamabad to Naran in roughly 7–8 hours via Mansehra and Balakot.
- Jeeps run from Naran to Lake Saif-ul-Malook year-round in season.
- Babusar Pass links Kaghan to the Karakoram Highway in summer only.
Top attractions
Babusar Pass
A 4,173 m summer pass linking Kaghan with the Karakoram Highway.
Things to do
Activities in Naran & Kaghan
Adventure
Hiking
Half-day and full-day walks to viewpoints, glaciers and village trails.
Moderate2–8 hoursSpring, Summer, Autumn
Outdoors
Camping
Meadow and lakeside camps under some of the clearest night skies anywhere.
Easy1–3 nightsSummer, Autumn
Adventure
Jeep Safari
4x4 routes over high passes, cold deserts and rough valley tracks.
Moderate1 daySummer, Autumn
Nature
Lakes & Boating
Turquoise water, boat rides and easy lakeside afternoons.
Easy1–4 hoursSpring, Summer, Autumn
Family
Family Trips
Road-accessible highlights, gentle walks and comfortable stays.
Easy3–8 daysSpring, Summer, Autumn
Ready-made journeys
Adventure plans including Naran & Kaghan
No multi-day plans listed here yet.
Where to stay
Hotels in Naran & Kaghan
Kaghan River Lodge
Naran bazaar road
Riverside rooms in Naran, a short drive from the Saif-ul-Malook jeep stand.
Lodge$$River viewRestaurant
From (demo)
$70 / night
Where to eat
Restaurants & local food in Naran & Kaghan
Naran River Grill
Naran bazaar
Charcoal grills beside the Kunhar River.
BBQCasual$$
Good to know
Naran & Kaghan FAQs
Can I reach Lake Saif-ul-Malook in a normal car?
Usually not — the last stretch is rough and local 4x4 jeeps are the standard option.
Keep planning
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