Naran and Kaghan Valleys

The Kaghan Valley now well known by Naran Valley; is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The 155-kilometre-long valley is enveloped by the Lower Himalayan mountain range, resulting in an alpine climate and the prevalence of pine forests and alpine meadows. Alongside the flow of the Kunhar River, the valley features glaciers, crystal-like clear lakes, waterfalls and frosty mountain streams. The Kaghan is famous for its scenic beauty and landscapes, resulting in its popularity as a summertime resort amongst locals and tourists alike.

Discovering the Enchantment of Naran Valley: A Paradise in the Himalayas

Location and Accessibility: Naran Valley, nestled in the stunning Himalayan range of Pakistan, is a true gem waiting to be explored. Located in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Naran is approximately 6-8 hours away from Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. Accessible via the Hazara Motorway and Kashmir-Abbottabad Road, the journey to Naran is a scenic delight, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, lush green forests, and majestic mountain peaks along the way.

Attractions: Naran Valley boasts a plethora of attractions that will leave visitors spellbound. From serene lakes to towering mountains, the valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Lake Saif-ul-Muluk, with its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, is a must-visit destination. Another highlight is Lalazar, a lush green plateau offering stunning vistas of the valley below.

Road Conditions and Transport Facilities: The road to Naran Valley is well-maintained, making for a comfortable journey even for those traveling by road. Visitors can opt for private transportation or utilize public transport services, including buses and vans, which are readily available from Islamabad and other major cities. Additionally, shared jeeps and taxis offer convenient transportation within the valley, allowing travelers to explore its beauty with ease.

Famous Lakes, Mountains, and Passes: Naran Valley is home to several iconic lakes, including Lake Saif-ul-Muluk, Lake Lulusar, and Dudipatsar Lake, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. Towering mountains such as Malika Parbat and Makra Peak dominate the skyline, providing a stunning backdrop to the valley. Babusar Pass, situated at an elevation of 4,173 meters, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and serves as a gateway to Gilgit-Baltistan.

Villages, Meadows, Glaciers, and Tracks: The valley is dotted with picturesque villages, each offering a glimpse into the local way of life and hospitality. Shogran, Batakundi, and Kaghan are among the most popular villages worth exploring. Meadows such as Lalazar and Siri Paye are perfect for picnics and leisurely walks amidst nature’s beauty. Glaciers like Ansoo and Saral also add to the valley’s allure, while trekking tracks such as the Ansoo Lake Trek and the Saiful Muluk Trek provide thrilling adventures for trekkers and hikers.

Hotels and Accommodation Facilities: Naran Valley offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From cozy guesthouses and budget hotels to luxurious resorts and cottages, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a place to stay. Some popular options include PTDC Motel Naran, Pine Park Hotel Shogran, and Fairy Land Hotel Kaghan. Camping enthusiasts can also find designated camping sites in the valley, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of nature.

In Conclusion: Naran Valley is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a wealth of attractions and experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re marveling at the beauty of its lakes and mountains, exploring its charming villages, or embarking on thrilling treks and adventures, Naran promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. With its excellent road infrastructure, convenient transport facilities, and diverse accommodation options, Naran Valley is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Famous Places of the Valley:

1. Kawaii waterfall, is located in the Kawaii village, which is around 20 kilometers away from Balakot City and 64 kilometers away from the Naran town. It is a spectacular waterfall that cascades down from the mountains into the Kunhar River. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green trees and mountains, making it a picturesque sight for visitors.”

2. Shogran; at 30 kilometers distance from Balakot a hill station, Shogran is famous for its lush greenery, pine forests and panoramic views. Shogran temperature remains about 18 Degree Centigrade during summers. Shogran offers best accommodation facilities for tourists. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

3. Siri & Paye Meadows, is green carpeted land, covered under clouds and mesmerizing scenery of snowy mountains. On your tour to Shogran, must visit Siri & Paye Meadows and Siri Lake. Road condition from Shogran to Siri Paye is not too good but this place is worth seeing. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

4. Sharan Forest, is an untouched beauty amid KPK. It is located at a 16km jeep trek from Paras (30km from Balakot). Sharan is known for its dense vegetation and cozy little campsite developed by the TCKP. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

5. Kaghan; On your tour to Naran-Kaghan Valley, you may not found any attraction in Kaghan. There is small market set along Naran road and as such no place to get fascinated. Lalazaar is a famous tourist attraction but accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

6. Naran, a small town located 120 Kilometers from Mansehra City, while entering to town a giant glacier welcomes you, the valley is set along River Kunhar and stream of Lake Saif ul Malook. Oldest tourist attraction of Pakistan welcomes more than one lac tourists each year from mid-June to mid-November. Main Hotels in Naran are PTDC Naran, Mount Feast, Hotel One, Hotel Home, Sarai Naran, Northern Retreat, Rose Valley Naran, De Manche Naran, Faran Hotel, Pine Park Naran, Naran City Hotel.

7. Lake Saif Ul Malook, Alpine glaciers lake is located about 7 Kilometers from Naran Bazaar and is 10,000 ft from sea level. Famous story of Prince of Persia associated with Saif ul Malook Lake and local guide used to tell fairy tales. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

8. Noori Top, is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3,949m (12,956ft) above the sea level, located on the border of Khyber Pakhtunkhawa Province and Azad Kashmir, in Pakistan. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

9. Dudipatsar Lake, also known as Dudipat Lake, is a lake encircled by snow clad peaks in Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park. The lake lies in the north end of the Kaghan Valley, in the Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Accessible only with 4×4 jeep.

10. Lulusar Lake, is a group of mountain peaks and a lake in the Kaghan Valley in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The lake is much bigger than other lakes around the valley, and is surrounded by snowcapped hills, making it a natural tourist attraction.

11. Babusar Top, at the elevation 4,173 metres or 13,691 feet is a mountain pass in Pakistan at the north of the 150 km (93 miles) long Kaghan Valley, connecting it via the Thak Nala with Chilas on the Karakoram Highway (KKH). It is the highest point adjacent to Kaghan Valley that can be easily accessed by cars.