Welcome to Chitta Katha Lake, one of the breathtaking Alpine lakes in Pakistan nestled in the enchanting Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir. This lake has an impressive elevation of 13,500 feet which is approximately 4,100 meters. Chitta Katha Lake is a place where Neelum, Naran, and Skardu converge.
How Chitta Katha Lake Name was originated?
Chitta Katha Sar is aptly named as White Stream originating from the majestic Chitta Katha stream which runs by Mount Harri Parbat. This sacred mountain holds great significance for Hindus as it holds a connection to Lord Shiva. The divine presence and eternal sanctuary have uplifted the charm of this beautiful mountain.
Location
This alpine lake is located in Chitta Katha village of Shounter Valley where it is surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains.
Chitta Katha Lake Weather
39°CHow to Get There?
Reaching chitta katha lake is not an easy job, this lake attracts only those who are in search of an abundant supply of adrenaline. This journey starts from Kel on a jeep at Shingle Road and ends at Domail Bala which is starting point for the trek. The total distance between Kel to Domail Bala is 20 Km or 12 miles which approximately takes 2-3 hours.
Once you set foot on Domail Bala, a trek spanning 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) accompanies you till you reach the lake. This will take approximately 9-12 hours to explore this enchanting beauty of the lake.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Some of the nearby tourist attractions in Chitta Katha Lake are as follows
- Dhani Waterfall
- Domail
- Shounter Valley
- Spoon Lake
- Counter
- Cabbage
- Keran
- Kutton Jagran Resort
Chitta Katha Lake Trek
The journey commences from the charming town of Kel before embarking on a thrilling journey towards Upper Domail. It is a junction point where two streams converge, situated at a staggering altitude of 9,000 feet.
If you’re a first-time visitor it is highly recommended to hire a knowledgeable guide, as the path to Chitta Katha Lake lacks a defined trail.
The journey to 16,500-foot-high Hari Parbat Mountain sets the stage for the awe-inspiring 8-kilometer trek that awaits.
This voyage beholds Sarwali Peak (standing tall at 20,754 feet (6,326 meters)), Hari Parbat (an imposing 16,500-foot-high mountain) and Nangi Mali Mountain.
Chitta Katha Lake Trek Routes
There are 3 trek routes from Shounter Valley to this trek which are as follows
Route 1
Route 1 starts from a small greenish mountain which is followed by a descent into the picturesque valley of DAK. The journey will take approximately 5 to 6 hours with a daring 100-meter crossing of a steep stony ridge. Make sure you will replenish your water bottles from here this stream is the only source of water until DAK 1.
Route 2
While the second is shorter but a steeper one which traces the banks of the stream flowing from DAK 1 and 2. This adventurous odyssey will take about 3 to 3.5 hours to land on the sanctuary lake.
How Long Will It Take To Complete a Trek to Chitta Katha?
It will take about 4-5 days to complete a trek around the Chitta Katha Lake.
Which Things You Should Bring To Chitta Katha Lake?
The things you should bring with you while going on a trek to Chitta Katha Lake are as follows
- Waterproof Sleeping Bag
- Warm Clothes (Jackets, Sweaters and Sweatshirts)
- Gloves
- Socks
- Wool Cap
- Head Lamp
- Rucksack
- Hiking Shoes
- Water Bottles
- Raincoat
- Sun Block
- Sun Glasses
- Rain Coat and
- Personal Medications for your health and hygiene
Chitta Katha Packages
There are a lot of travel agencies in Pakistan that are offering packages for the Chitta Katha Trek but here we list the top one. You can click on the below names to check their packages and itinerary.
Conclusion
Chitta Katha Lake is an adventure that challenges your spirit, rewards your perseverance, and leaves an indelible mark on your being. Embrace the allure of this alpine paradise, where nature’s wonders unfold at every turn, beckoning you to embark on a journey of a lifetime.
Allow yourself to be embraced by the tranquility of Chitta Katha Lake, where nature’s grandeur and spiritual essence intertwine harmoniously. So, hop on a journey to Chitta Katha Lake, where nature’s beauty and the divine converge in perfect harmony, beckoning you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
For more informative blogs on tourism in Pakistan visit E-Lands – Explore Pakistan
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