Gilgit-Baltistan is home to some of Pakistan’s most remarkable mountain lakes. Some are easy to reach by road, with hotels, restaurants and boating facilities nearby. Others are hidden among high mountains and require a long drive, a 4×4 vehicle or even a multi-day trek.
Table of Contents
This difference matters when planning a trip. A family visiting Hunza for a few days will have very different options from a trekking enthusiast planning an expedition in the mountains.
In this guide, we cover 10 beautiful lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan, where they are located, how to reach them, the best time to visit and what kind of journey to expect. The aim is to help you choose lakes that actually fit your travel plans rather than simply give you a list of places to photograph.
Quick overview: Which lakes should you visit?
| Lake | Location | Travel difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Attabad Lake | Hunza | Easy |
| Upper Kachura Lake | Skardu | Easy to moderate |
| Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila) | Skardu | Easy |
| Satpara Lake | Near Skardu | Easy |
| Sheosar Lake | Deosai National Park | Seasonal, challenging |
| Borith Lake | Upper Hunza | Easy to moderate |
| Naltar Lakes | Naltar Valley | Moderate |
| Phander Lake | Ghizer | Moderate, longer road journey |
| Rush Lake | Nagar | Difficult trek |
| Karambar Lake | Ishkoman region | Remote, demanding journey |
Travel difficulty is a general planning guide, not a live road-condition report. Access can change with weather, snowfall, landslides and local restrictions.
1. Attabad Lake – The turquoise lake of Hunza
Location: Gojal, Upper Hunza
Best time to visit: April to October
Access: Road access from the Karakoram Highway
Attabad Lake is one of the most recognisable lakes in northern Pakistan. Its striking blue water, surrounded by steep mountain slopes, makes it a major stop for visitors travelling through Hunza.
The lake was formed following a massive landslide in January 2010, which blocked the Hunza River. Over time, it became one of the region’s best-known tourist attractions.
Unlike remote mountain lakes, Attabad is relatively straightforward to include in a normal Hunza itinerary. The Karakoram Highway runs alongside the lake, and visitors can stop at designated viewpoints or visit the lakeside area.
What can you do at Attabad Lake?
- Enjoy the views from the lakeside.
- Take a boat ride when services are operating.
- Photograph the surrounding mountains and blue water.
- Explore nearby Gojal attractions, including Gulmit and Passu.
How much time should you allow?
A few hours are usually enough for a sightseeing stop and optional boating. You can spend longer if you want a relaxed visit or plan to explore nearby attractions.
Travel tip: Boat operations and available activities can vary by season and weather. Confirm local conditions before making plans.
2. Upper Kachura Lake – A peaceful lake near Skardu
Location: Upper Kachura, near Skardu
Best time to visit: May to October
Access: Road journey followed by a short walk to the lake
Upper Kachura Lake is known for its clear water, green surroundings and mountain scenery. It is a popular choice for travellers who want to experience a natural lake without undertaking a difficult trek.
The lake is surrounded by trees and mountain slopes, creating a different atmosphere from the open, rocky landscapes found around parts of Skardu.
Visitors can enjoy the lakeside scenery, take photographs and explore the surrounding area. Boating may be available depending on local operations and conditions.
Why visit Upper Kachura Lake?
- It is a good addition to a Skardu sightseeing itinerary.
- The surroundings are attractive for photography.
- It offers a quieter natural setting than some of the busier tourist spots.
- It can be combined with Lower Kachura Lake on the same outing.
Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes because reaching the lakeside involves walking. Allow extra time if you want to explore rather than simply stop for photographs.
3. Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila Lake) – A famous Skardu attraction
Location: Lower Kachura, Skardu
Best time to visit: April to October
Access: Road access to the Shangrila Resort area
Lower Kachura Lake is widely known as Shangrila Lake because of the resort established beside it. It is among the most photographed places in Skardu and is often included in first-time visitors’ itineraries.
The lake’s setting, with its distinctive surroundings and mountain backdrop, makes it a convenient place for families and travellers who prefer accessible attractions.
What makes Shangrila Lake worth visiting?
- Easy inclusion in a Skardu sightseeing trip.
- Lakeside views and photography opportunities.
- Nearby facilities at the resort area.
- A convenient stop when visiting Upper Kachura.
You do not need a full day for the lake alone. Many travellers combine it with Upper Kachura and other nearby attractions.
Travel tip: Check entry arrangements and any applicable charges before visiting. Resort access and facilities may be subject to local policies.
4. Satpara Lake – A scenic lake close to Skardu city
Location: South of Skardu
Best time to visit: May to October
Access: Road access from Skardu
Satpara Lake is one of the most accessible natural attractions around Skardu. It is an important water source for the area and is surrounded by rugged mountains that give it a distinctive landscape.
Its proximity to Skardu makes it a practical choice for travellers who do not want to spend several hours travelling to a remote destination.
The scenery changes with the light and season. On a clear day, the lake and surrounding mountains create excellent photography opportunities.
Things to do around Satpara Lake
- Enjoy the mountain and lakeside views.
- Take photographs from suitable viewpoints.
- Include the lake in a half-day Skardu sightseeing plan.
- Combine the visit with other nearby attractions, depending on your route.
Travel tip: Do not assume that every part of the lakeshore is freely accessible. Follow local instructions and use designated stopping areas.
5. Sheosar Lake – A spectacular lake in Deosai National Park
Location: Deosai National Park
Best time to visit: Generally July to September, subject to access and weather
Access: Seasonal road journey through Deosai
Sheosar Lake is one of the most memorable places to visit in Deosai National Park. It sits within a vast high-altitude plateau surrounded by open grasslands and distant mountain scenery.
Unlike the lakes near Skardu city, reaching Sheosar is part of the adventure. The journey takes visitors across the Deosai landscape, where weather, road conditions and seasonal access can affect travel plans.
During the warmer months, the plateau becomes known for its wildflowers, open landscapes and wildlife. The lake is especially impressive when the surrounding scenery is clear.
What should you know before visiting?
- Deosai is a high-altitude destination.
- Access is seasonal and depends on weather and road conditions.
- A suitable 4×4 vehicle is generally the sensible choice for the journey.
- Visitors should allow enough time for the road trip rather than treating it as a quick city excursion.
Travel tip: Do not plan a winter visit on the assumption that the road will be open. Check current access information locally before travelling, and take altitude and changing weather seriously.
For more information, read our Complete Guide to Deosai National Park.
6. Borith Lake – A quiet stop in Upper Hunza
Location: Near Gulmit, Upper Hunza
Best time to visit: April to October
Access: Turn-off from the Karakoram Highway followed by a local road journey
Borith Lake is a small, scenic lake near Gulmit in Upper Hunza. It offers a different experience from the busy lakeside areas of Attabad, with a more peaceful setting and views of the surrounding mountains.
Its location makes it a useful addition to a trip through Gojal. Visitors can combine it with Gulmit, Passu and other nearby attractions, depending on the time available.
The area is also of interest to birdwatchers, as the lake and surrounding wetlands can attract birds during certain seasons.
Why include Borith Lake in your itinerary?
- It is close to other Upper Hunza attractions.
- It offers a quieter stop for photography and sightseeing.
- It can be combined with a visit to Gulmit and nearby viewpoints.
- It provides a change of scenery from the main Karakoram Highway route.
Travel tip: Road conditions on the approach can vary. Ask locally about the condition of the access road, especially after rain or snowfall.
7. Naltar Lakes – Colourful lakes surrounded by mountains
Location: Naltar Valley, near Gilgit
Best time to visit: Generally May to October, depending on road and weather conditions
Access: Road journey from Gilgit, with a suitable vehicle depending on conditions
Naltar Valley is known for its forests, mountain scenery and beautiful lakes. The lakes are often referred to by different names and colours, including Blue Lake, Green Lake and other local descriptions.
The journey is part of the experience. Naltar is not as straightforward to reach as Attabad or Shangrila, and the condition of the road can influence which vehicle is suitable.
Visitors should plan for a longer outing from Gilgit rather than expecting a short stop.
What can you experience in Naltar?
- Mountain lakes with distinctive colours.
- Forest scenery and natural viewpoints.
- Photography opportunities.
- A quieter mountain environment away from the main highway.
Travel tip: Ask about the road condition before leaving Gilgit. Depending on the season and the state of the route, a 4×4 or other suitable local transport may be necessary.
8. Phander Lake – The peaceful blue lake of Ghizer
Location: Phander Valley, Ghizer District
Best time to visit: May to October
Access: Road journey through Ghizer
Phander Lake is known for its calm blue water, green surroundings and peaceful mountain setting. It is one of the most attractive places to visit in Ghizer and offers a different experience from the busier tourist areas of Hunza and Skardu.
The valley is particularly appealing to travellers who enjoy slow-paced trips, scenic drives and time away from crowded destinations.
Phander is not a quick detour for someone following a short Hunza or Skardu itinerary. It is better planned as part of a dedicated Ghizer trip or a longer journey through northern Pakistan.
What makes Phander Lake special?
- Calm water and attractive mountain scenery.
- A peaceful setting for photography.
- Nearby villages and valley landscapes.
- Opportunities to explore the wider Ghizer region.
Travel tip: Allow sufficient driving time and avoid planning the journey too tightly. Accommodation and services may be more limited than in major tourist centres, so arrange your stay in advance during busy travel periods.
9. Rush Lake – A high-altitude lake for trekking enthusiasts
Location: Nagar Valley, near the Rush Peak area
Best time to visit: Generally summer, depending on snow and trail conditions
Access: Multi-day trek
Rush Lake is a high-altitude destination that offers a very different experience from the lakes accessible by road.
Located in the mountains of Nagar, it is associated with the Rush Peak trekking route and is known for its dramatic views of surrounding peaks and glaciers.
This is not a destination to add casually to a family sightseeing itinerary. Reaching the lake requires proper trekking preparation, suitable equipment, sufficient time and knowledge of the route.
Who should visit Rush Lake?
Rush Lake is best suited to:
- Experienced or properly prepared trekkers.
- Visitors comfortable with high-altitude hiking.
- People travelling with a knowledgeable local guide.
- Those who can allow several days for the trek.
Travel tip: Do not underestimate altitude, weather or trail conditions. Arrange a suitable guide, check current conditions and prepare properly before attempting the trek.
10. Karambar Lake – A remote mountain lake in the Ishkoman region
Location: Ishkoman region, Ghizer District
Best time to visit: Summer, subject to local access and weather
Access: Remote journey involving local transport and trekking arrangements
Karambar Lake is among the more remote lake destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan. Its location in the mountains of the Ishkoman region makes it an option for travellers looking for a demanding adventure rather than a conventional sightseeing trip.
Reaching the lake requires careful planning. The journey can involve rough roads, local transport arrangements and trekking, depending on the route and current conditions.
This is not a destination where visitors should rely on a simple online itinerary or assume that normal tourist transport will be sufficient.
What should you plan before visiting?
- Confirm the current route with experienced local guides.
- Arrange transport and accommodation or camping requirements.
- Check weather and access conditions.
- Allow enough time for the journey.
- Carry suitable equipment and emergency supplies.
Travel tip: Treat Karambar as a dedicated expedition, not a short side trip from Hunza or Skardu. Confirm the route, permissions if applicable, and local arrangements before departure.
Which lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan are best for families?
Not every lake is suitable for every traveller. If you are travelling with children, older family members or people who prefer comfortable road journeys, focus on destinations with relatively straightforward access.
Good options for a family sightseeing trip include:
- Attabad Lake: Conveniently located along the Karakoram Highway, with visitor facilities and activities when operating.
- Lower Kachura (Shangrila): A popular and accessible stop near Skardu.
- Satpara Lake: Close to Skardu and easy to include in a local sightseeing plan.
- Upper Kachura Lake: A scenic option, although reaching the lakeside involves walking.
- Borith Lake: A worthwhile stop during a trip through Upper Hunza, subject to road conditions.
Rush Lake and Karambar Lake are not suitable choices for a casual family sightseeing trip because they require more demanding travel arrangements.
Best time to visit lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan
The best time depends on which lakes you want to see. Road-accessible destinations and high-altitude lakes do not share the same travel season.
Spring: March and April
Spring brings changing landscapes to Hunza and other lower-altitude areas. Some mountain roads and higher destinations may still be affected by snow or unstable weather.
Attabad Lake and other accessible Hunza attractions may be suitable for spring visits, but check local conditions before travelling.
Summer: May to August
Summer is generally the most practical season for exploring a wider range of destinations.
Many road-accessible lakes are easier to include in an itinerary, while Deosai and high-altitude trekking routes may become accessible as snow conditions improve.
This is also a busy travel period, so accommodation and transport should be arranged ahead of time.
Autumn: September and October
Autumn brings changing colours to the valleys and can be an excellent time for photography. Conditions at higher elevations can become colder, and access to remote destinations may become more difficult as the season progresses.
Winter: November to February
Winter travel is more limited. Snowfall, icy roads and closures can affect access to high-altitude lakes and remote valleys.
If you are planning a winter visit, choose destinations only after checking current road conditions and local travel advice. Do not assume that summer routes will remain accessible.
How to plan a lake trip in Gilgit-Baltistan
The most important decision is choosing lakes that make geographical sense together. Gilgit-Baltistan is a large region, and travelling between valleys can take considerable time.
Here are three practical ways to organise your trip.
Option 1: Hunza and Upper Hunza lakes
A Hunza-focused trip can include:
- Attabad Lake
- Borith Lake
You can combine these with Karimabad, Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Gulmit and Passu. The exact number of days depends on your arrival point and how much time you want to spend in each area.
See our Hunza Valley travel guide for more destination ideas.
Option 2: Skardu and nearby lakes
A Skardu-focused trip can include:
- Upper Kachura Lake
- Lower Kachura Lake
- Satpara Lake
- Sheosar Lake, if Deosai is accessible
Upper and Lower Kachura and Satpara can be combined into a local sightseeing plan. Sheosar needs a separate journey into Deosai and should be planned according to seasonal access.
Explore our Skardu tourism guide for more information.
Option 3: Ghizer and remote mountain lakes
Travellers with more time can explore:
- Phander Lake
- Karambar Lake
Karambar requires a much more demanding itinerary than Phander. Do not treat the two as equivalent sightseeing stops. Plan the remote lake separately with experienced local support.
What vehicle do you need to visit these lakes?
The right vehicle depends on the destination, road condition and season.
| Destination | General transport consideration |
|---|---|
| Attabad Lake | Normal road transport on the Karakoram Highway |
| Upper Kachura | Road transport, followed by walking |
| Lower Kachura | Normal road transport |
| Satpara Lake | Normal road transport in suitable conditions |
| Sheosar Lake | A suitable 4×4 is generally recommended |
| Borith Lake | Vehicle suitability depends on the access road condition |
| Naltar Lakes | Local road conditions may require a suitable 4×4 |
| Phander Lake | Road journey through Ghizer |
| Rush Lake | Trekking arrangements, not ordinary car access |
| Karambar Lake | Remote local transport and trekking arrangements |
For road journeys, choose a vehicle based on the actual route rather than simply selecting the cheapest option. A vehicle suitable for Skardu city sightseeing may not be suitable for every mountain road.
If you need transport for a northern Pakistan trip, see our car rental services.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the most beautiful lake in Gilgit-Baltistan?
There is no single answer because each lake offers a different experience. Attabad is famous for its turquoise water and easy access, Upper Kachura is known for its natural surroundings, Sheosar offers the open landscapes of Deosai, and Rush Lake is a remarkable destination for trekkers.
Which lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan are easiest to visit?
Attabad Lake, Lower Kachura Lake and Satpara Lake are among the more straightforward options for visitors travelling by road. Upper Kachura and Borith are also worth considering, although the final approach and walking requirements differ.
Can I visit Attabad Lake and Kachura Lake on the same trip?
Yes, but they are in different areas. Attabad Lake is in Hunza, while the Kachura lakes are near Skardu. You should allow time for the journey between the two regions rather than planning them as nearby stops.
Is Sheosar Lake open throughout the year?
No. Access to Sheosar Lake depends on seasonal conditions in Deosai National Park. Snow and weather can make the route inaccessible, particularly outside the main summer travel season. Check current local access before planning a visit.
Do I need a 4×4 to visit every lake in Gilgit-Baltistan?
No. Several popular lakes can be reached through normal road journeys. However, some mountain routes and remote destinations may require a suitable 4×4, and Rush Lake requires trekking rather than ordinary vehicle access.
Which lakes are suitable for a short Skardu trip?
Upper Kachura, Lower Kachura and Satpara are practical choices for a short Skardu visit. Sheosar Lake can also be included when Deosai is accessible, but it requires additional travel time.
Can I visit Rush Lake without trekking experience?
Rush Lake is a demanding high-altitude trekking destination. Visitors should not attempt it casually. Proper preparation, suitable equipment, current trail information and experienced local guidance are important.
Plan your trip to Gilgit-Baltistan
The best lake itinerary is not necessarily the one that includes the most destinations. It is the one that gives you enough time to enjoy each place without spending the entire holiday travelling between valleys.
For a shorter trip, choose accessible lakes around Hunza or Skardu. If you have more time, consider exploring Ghizer or planning a dedicated trekking adventure.
Rozefs Tourism can help you organise transport and sightseeing for your northern Pakistan journey. Explore our Hunza tour packages and Skardu tour packages to plan your trip.