Hop on a captivating journey through the breathtaking lakes of Pakistan. Discover hidden gems of nature ranging from Manchar Lake, Paristan and Shimshal Lake with over 500 lakes in Pakistan (according to Google map analysis). While exploring the lakes you’ll find yourself in heaven with this untouched beauty. This is the reason why Pakistan is called home to natural lakes.
In this article, E-Lands, Explore Pakistan brings a comprehensive list of lakes in Pakistan with detailed information about every single lake.
Catch a Sight of Lakes in Pakistan
Here is a complete list of sixty discovered lakes in Pakistan till now. Out of these 60 lakes, 51 are natural lakes and the other 9 are artificial lakes or reservoirs in Pakistan.
We will discuss these lakes one by one below. And if you wish to read about a specific lake, you can just simply click on the name of that lake and we will drag you down to the information about that lake.’
| Name | Elevation | Location | Depth |
| Attabad Lake | Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan | 36°20′12.62″N 74°52′3.12″E | – |
| Barah Lake | 4,512 metres (14,803 ft) | Barah Valley, Ghanche District, Gilgit-Baltistan | – |
| Batura Lake | 2,900 metres (9,500 ft) | Batura Valley, Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan | – |
| Borith Lake | 2,600 metres (8,500 ft) | Hunza, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Dakholi Lake | 4,771.1 metres (15,653 ft) | Khaplu Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Ghanche Lake | 4,599.9 metres (15,092 ft) | Khaplu Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Ghorashe Lake | 2,862.2 metres (9,390 ft) | Kharmang Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Handarap Lake | 3,285 metres (10,778 ft) | Ghizer Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Hasanabad Lake | 2,750 metres (9,020 ft) | Hassanabad Valley, Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan | – |
| Hrkolong Lake | 4,126 metres (13,537 ft) | Khaplu Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Khalti Lake | Khalti, Ghizer District | 36.2479302°N 73.3633701°E | – |
| Paristan Lake | Skardu, Skardu District | – | |
| Katpanah Lake | 2,190 metres (7,190 ft) | Katpanah, Skardu Valley | – |
| Naltar Lakes | Naltar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan | – | |
| Lower Kachura Lake | 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) | Skardu District, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Phander Lake | Gupis-Yasin District, Gilgit-Baltistan | – | |
| Rama Lake | 2,600 metres (8,500 ft) | Astore Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Rush Lake | 4,693 metres (15,397 ft) | Nagar Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Satpara Lake | 2,636 metres (8,648 ft) | Skardu Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Sheosar Lake | 4,142 metres (13,589 ft) | Deosai Plains, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Shimshal Lakes | 4,755 metres (15,600 ft) | Hunza District, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Upper Kachura Lake | 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) | Skardu District, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
| Zharba Lake | 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) | Shigar Valley, Gilgit–Baltistan | – |
Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake – the largest lake in Skardu is nestled in the scenic Gojal Hunza Valley of Northern Areas of Pakistan. This picturesque lake stems from the Attabad disaster in 2010. But now it stands as one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan.
Attabad Lake is stretched over 21 Km, having a depth of 109 meters (around 358 feet) and an altitude of 2559 meters (8396 feet). Due to its beauty, Attabad Lake designates 13.5 square kilometers for exhilarating recreational activities. Here you can enjoy boating, jet skiing, fishing and photography.
Barah Lake
Barah Lake is situated in the Barah Valley of the Ganche District in Gilgit Baltistan. It took 3 hours to reach Barah Lake from Skardu on the way to Khaplu. From there, you have to trek on a mountain named “Barah Koh” for 4 hours to enjoy the mesmerizing views of the lake in between two mountains. This lake is also named “Khinsor Lake or “Khin Jheel”
It is spread over 0.21 Km2 with an altitude of 4,512 meters (14,803 ft). But there is no actual information available about the depth of Barah Lake. The recreational activities that you can enjoy here are hiking, trekking, camping, fishing and photography.
Batura Lake
The exquisite Batura Lake lies within the captivating Batura Valley of the Upper Hunza Region. Also, it is positioned to the north of the magnificent Batura and Passu mountains. This natural wonder boasts an elevation of 2,900 meters, immersing you in a realm of serene beauty. Moreover, Batura Lake runs on the Batura Glacier – one of the best trekking spots in Pakistan. Besides this, there is no specific information about this lake in Pakistan.
Borith Lake – Stunner Lakes in Pakistan
Borith Lake is located to the north of the Ghulkin Glacier, near Hussaini village in the upper Hunza region. This stunning lake offers a serene escape with an altitude of approximately 2,600 meters above sea level.
Borith Lake is accessible via a scenic 2 km unpaved jeep route from Husseini village. Or you can take a rewarding 2-3 hour trek through Gulmit village. This journey to this tranquil oasis is as exhilarating as the destination itself.
Moreover, Borith Lake is not only famous for sightseeing but also for being a natural sanctuary for migratory animals and birds. This makes birdwatchers and wildlife photographers flock here to witness the spectacle of ducks migrating from southern Pakistan. The prime time for this awe-inspiring experience is March to June.
At Borith Lake, you’ll experience its slightly saline yet drinkable waters.Dakholi Lake, a hidden treasure, lies in Skardu’s Khaplu Valley, making it one of the underrated tourist places in Pakistan. The lake is surrounded by rural communities and the majestic Ghulkin Glacier.
Dakholi Lake
This captivating lake with an area of 0.07 square kilometers invites adventurers to explore its beauty. ), Dakholi Lake towered at an elevation of 4,771.1 meters (15,653 feet).
While specific information on Dakholi Lake is scarce. But we will update it soon we will get information through any source on the internet.
Ghanche Lake
Two local adventurers discovered Ghanche Lake in 2015. It is nestled in Ghanch Nualah, a captivating place that requires a seven-hour walk from Khaplu town. The locals refer to Ghanche Lake as “Khenpi Tso,” meaning the right-hand side lake in the Balti language.
Also, Ghanche Lake is not just a picturesque tourist spot; it holds immense significance locally. Because the lives of the local community residing in Khaplu depend on this crucial water resource. It does not stretch to a wide area (0.16 square km which is calculated by ARC GIS on September 2020), still has significance in the local community lives.
The most remarkable feature is it offers breathtaking views of renowned peaks in the world. The peaks that lie near Ghanche Lake are as follows
- Mighty K2, standing at 8,611 meters
- Gashabrum-4
- Gashabrum-3
- Hrnami Ka Peak
- Tchogho Lingsa Peak
- Gashabrum-2
- K6
- K7
The discovery of one of the new lakes in Pakistan brings another spot for adventure seekers. Here at Ghanche Lake Trek, adventurers can fill their souls with the thrill and mesmerizing beauty of the Karakoram peaks.
Here is the reason why many local traveling agencies in Skardu are offering Ghanche Lake Trek Packages. The duration of this trek is seven days and a maximum altitude of 4,600 meters. And the best time to go on Ghanche Lake Trek is from June to October. For trek packages, you can check out the Baltistan Tours website.
Ghorashe Lake
Ghorashe Lake is on the list of recently unveiled lakes in Pakistan. Snuggled within the enchanting landscape of Kharmang Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan. Having an altitude of 2862 meters (9390 feet) above sea level.
While detailed information about Ghorashe Lake is currently thin, we are committed to staying vigilant and updating you with any new discoveries. As we eagerly track updates on these mystical lakes, we invite you to join us on this journey.
Handarap Lake / Shandoor Lake
Handarap Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan, also known as Shandoor Lake. Located in the Handarap Nallah within the Handarap Valley of the Ghizer District of Gilgit. With a height of 3,285 meters (10,778 ft) above sea level.
To reach on Handarap Lake, embark on the Karakoram Highway from Islamabad to Gilgit. From there, continue westward on the Gilgit-Chitral road towards Shandur till you reach Handarap Valley. Then take a four-hour hike from the village of Handarp Valley will lead you to the breathtaking shores of Shandoor Lake.
But exciting developments are on their way to improve accessibility to Shandoor Lake. A road is currently being constructed from the Handarap valley to lake, ensuring a convenient journey for travelers. This shows soon travelers will have the option to explore this destination by van, car or even bike.
Once you arrive there, you will enjoy the mesmerizing views of Handarap Lake and snow-capped mountains. The flatness of the upper side of the lake makes it worthy of the title of the “Roof of the World“.
Here at Shandoor Lake, you can enjoy various activities like picnics, photography, fishing and hiking. Moreover here in July, you can witness the famous festival in Skardu named Shandur Polo Festival. Here thousands of visitors come to watch thrilling polo matches in one of the world’s highest polo grounds.
Hussainabad / Shispare Lake
Hussainabad Lake also known as Hasanabad Lake or Shispare Lake is one of the artificial lakes in Pakistan. The picturesque Hassanabad Valley near Hunza houses this stunning natural wonder, Shispare Lake, which formed due to the blockage of the magnificent Shispare Glacier. This blockage gives rise to a serene body of water that extends over a length of 1.4 kilometers.
Hussainabad Lake has an area of 0.35 square kilometers and is growing day by day. The elevation of this lake stands at an impressive height of 2,750 meters (9,020 feet) above sea level.
To reach there, embark on a scenic two-hour hike from the Hassanabad Bridge. While on the way to your trek, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of towering peaks, including,
- Batura (7,795m)
- Shispare (7,611m)
- Muchu Chhish (7,452m), which is one of the highest legally unclimbed mountains in the world.
The presence of these 7000+ meters towers near Hussainabad Lake alleviates its beauty.
Hrkolong Lake
Hrkolong Lake – one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan nestled in Skardu’s Khaplu Valley with an elevation of 4,126 meters (13,537 ft). The main feature of this lake is its role in nourishing Khaplu, Surmo, and Youchung Broq through the Hnajuluba stream. As limited information is available, we are dedicated to keep you updated after every single discovery.
Khalti Lake
Khalti Lake lies in Khalti village surrounded by the Hindu Kush Mountain Range in the Gupis-Yasin District near the Ghizer River. It stands out at an elevation of around 7,274 feet above sea level with a depth of 30 to 70 feet. Moreover, this enchanting lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts as it is known for its thriving trout population.
To reach Khalti Lake, it will take an approximately 3-4 hour ride from Khalti Lake.
When the winter season arrives the lake freezes and creates a magical ice-covered landscape. This turns Khalti Lake into a perfect spot for photographers and can be turned into a spot for winter sports like polo or football.
Moreover, here at Khalti Lake, many accommodation options are available which offers majestic lake views. Some of the accommodation options are
- PTDC motel lies adjacent to the lake and costs around 28 USD.
- Ghizer Blossom Inn Hotel and costs around 35 USD
- Lake View Hotel and its prices are not available.
Here you can enjoy recreational activities like fishing, winter sports, picnic in summer and camping.
Paristan Lake
Paristan Lake, the highest lake in Pakistan, was discovered by two adventure junkies during a trek near Skardu. It stands out at a height of 4,767 meters (15,641 feet) above sea level. This pristine lake also holds fame for being the highest lake in Pakistan and the 25th-highest lake in the world based on its altitude. Besides this specific information about the lake is limited online, therefore we regret to provide a comprehensive information guide.
Katpanah Lake
Katpanah Lake reposed in the downtown area of Skardu, stands as the only lake in Skardu city. Having an altitude of 2,190 meters (7,190 ft) above sea level.
However, according to reviews, the lake has unfortunately dried up, leaving no water behind. Another review stated by a tourist stated that the lake can be conveniently accessed by car.
The captivating Katpanah cold desert lies adjacent to Katpanah Lake which is a major tourist prominent attraction. Although specific information about the lake is scarce online, we regret to provide you a complete information about lake.
Naltar Valley Lakes
Naltar Valley hosts 3 mesmerizing lakes known as Naltar Lakes or Bashkiri Lakes. These lakes are situated at high altitudes ranging from 3,050 to 3,150 meters (10,010 to 10,330 ft).
- Satrangi Lake
- Pari Lake
- Feroza Lake
Each lake exhibits its own distinction. One is adorned for its 7 seven colors due to the grown algae within it. The second mesmerizes with its blue hue, and the third captivates with its azure shade.
The 12 km journey to the lakes starts from Upper Naltar, following a dirt road alongside a flowing stream. The dirt track leading to the lakes is accessible by 4×4 vehicles or trekking, with glacial streams accompanying the path.
The best time to visit is from May to October, as heavy snowfall during winter makes access challenging. During the summer, Naltar or Bashkiri lakes become prime tourist attractions.
Satrangi Lake
Satrangi Lake, known as the Lake of Seven Colors is located approximately 12 kilometers from the main Naltar Valley with an elevation ranging from 10,200 to 11,390 feet above sea level. It is famous for revealing shades of 7 colors (green, blue, orange, turquoise blue, yellow, brown, and pink). This reflects a surreal spectacle you won’t find elsewhere and makes it a perfect spot for camping.
Pari Lake
Pari Lake also known as Fairy Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. It is sited just 1 kilometer north of Satrangi Lake and is famous for its blue water. This lake runs on an underground source of water because there are no rivers or streams present. Here you can reach by booking a ride on a 4×4 jeep or by trekking.
Feroza Lake
Feroza Lake with its captivating blue-green hues comes to the list of adorable lakes in Pakistan. It is just a 45-55 minute trek away from Pari Lake. The only way to reach here is to trek or by riding a horse which makes it a distinctive spot for camp lovers.
Kachura Lakes
Kachura Lake is nestled amidst the majestic Skardu District having a height of 2,500 meters (8,200 ft), including,
- Upper Kachura Lake
- Lower Kachura Lake (also known as Shangrila Lake)
- Zambakha Lake.
Lower Kachura Lake is renowned for its pristine beauty, are located within the captivating Shangrila Resort. Shangrila Resort calls the serene waters of Lower Kachura Lake to mirror the surrounding mountains. This results in fulfilling the souls of travelers by turning their dream into reality.
While to explore Upper Kachura Lake you have to trek for 2-3 hours from Shangrilla Resort to enjoy its serene beauty.
While the Zambhaka Lake lies in the Zambhaka Village which is in the western proximity of Shangrilla Resort.
Lower Kachura Lake – Beautiful Lakes in Pakistan
Whenever you are making the list of most-visited lakes in Pakistan, how come is it possible that Lower Kachura Lake won’t pop up in your mind?
The alternate name for Lower Kachura is Shangrila, derived from the Tibetan word meaning “place of mountains,” inspired by the novel “The Last Horizon” written by James Hilton, portraying a magnificent natural paradise.
Tourists can reach Lower Kachura Lakes by taking the route from Jaglot to Skardu. The tread to Lower Kachura Lake is just a 30-minute drive away from Skardu.
The activities that you can enjoy here are as follows
- Fishing
- Boating
- Sightseeing
- Dining experience in PIA’s crashed plane
Upper Kachura Lake
The exquisite Upper Kachura Lake with a depth of approximately 70 meters and towers at 2,500 meters. Due to its rough terrain, it can only be accessed via trekking and is surrounded by wild apricot trees. The atmosphere here at this lake is quite good as the temperature during summer is around 15 C and in winter ranges from -10 to -20 C.
Here at Upper Kachura Lake, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities to let your stress go away. It includes
- Trout Fishing
- Trekking and Hiking
- Boating and
- Photography
Moreover, upper Kachura Lake is at the center of various tourist attractions in Skardu from where you can easily access different spots. These tourist spots include
- Katpana Desert
- Satpara Lake
- Sheosar Lake and
- Manthoka Waterfall
Moreover, some nearby accommodation options are also available nearby Upper Kachura Lake, including,
- Safari Resort
- Shangrilla Resort
- Mir Hotel and Restaurant
- Byrsa Hotel Skardu
Phander Lake
The 900 meters long, Phander Lake with an area of 3 Km stuns its visitor with its scenic beauty. The lake, with a depth of 44 meters, is also known as Nango Chatt and is located in Koh-i-Ghizer, Gupis-Yasin District.
Tourists can access Phander Lake from both Gilgit and Chitral Valley.
From Gilgit, it will take a 5-6 hour ride to reach there. Besides this, there is no specific information available about the lake on the internet as it is one of the most unexplored lakes in Pakistan.
Rama Lake
Rama Lake also known as Rama Sar with its pristine beauty nestled in the eastern slopes of Nanga Parbat at the top of Astore Valley. It is one of the highest lakes in Pakistan with an elevation of 3507 meters.
The presence of lush forests and scenic villages like Chim, Bubin and Gorikot in its surrounding helps in elevating the lake’s beauty. Moreover, the crystal-clear waters of Rama Lake reflect the majestic view of Himalayan peaks. The picturesque beauty of Rama Lake makes it a top-visited attraction in Skardu.
Rush Lake
It is one of the highest alpine lakes in the world with an elevation of 4694 meters. This awe-inspiring lake also holds the distinction of being the 27th-highest-altitude lake in Pakistan.
The lake captivates with its position in Nagar Valley, just 15 km north of Miar and Spantik (also known as Golden Peak), near Rush Pari Peak.
To reach there, you need to set on a trekking journey starting from Nagar and Hopar Valley, passing through the Hopar Glacier (Bualtar Glacier) and Miar Glacier. While staying on the journey you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning views of Spantik, Malubiting, Miar Peak, Phuparash Peak, and Ultar Sar.
Satpara Lake
Satpara Lake – one of the largest freshwater lakes in Pakistan has an area of 4.5 square Km which sit on an elevation of 2636 meters above sea level. This serene lake is located in Skardu and also serves as a vital source of water for this town. While this lake runs on the Satpara stream which flows by the melting ice of the Deosai plains.
This beautiful lake is just a 7km ride away from Skardu city towards the Deosai plains. Vibrant flowers and mountains surround this site, where visitors marvel at the Buddha carvings.
Furthermore, the Satpara Dam project on Satpara Lake aims to provide 13 MW of electricity, water, and irrigate 15,000 acres of land.
Sheosar Lake
The lake known as Sheosar Lake or Shausar Lake is located in the Deosai Plateau towards Chillam Chowki on the western edge of Deosai National Park. It derives its name from the Shina Language, which means Blind Lake.
Sheosar Lake holds a unique significance with a span of 2.3 kilometers in length, 1.8 kilometers in width, 4250 meters in elevation and a depth of 40 meters. During the winter season, the lake remains frozen from November to May. While in the spring season, it reveals a vibrant display of blooming flowers and fluttering butterflies and even in summer its atmosphere remains chilly.
It is the largest lake in Deosai National Park and one of the highest-altitude lakes in the world. Sheosar Lake falls under the category of High Altitude Wetlands (HAW), which are crucial ecosystems supporting biodiversity. Reportedly, the lake shelters 114 plant species, including,
- Robin’s eye
- Ragworts
- Sedum Ewersii
- Campanula (bellflower)
Reaching Sheosar Lake is possible via two routes: Skardu and Astore. By jeep, you can reach Sheosar Lake from Skardu within a few hours. While trekking to the lake takes approximately two days.
Alternatively, you can choose the Astore route where a jeep ride on a semi-metal road will take you to Chillam Chowki within 4 hours. From there you will trek to Sheosar Lake.
It is advisable to bring your food but if you forget then you need not worry as there are a few kiosks available.
Shimshal Lakes
Shimshal Lakes – the highest lakes in Pakistan having a remarkable height of 4,755 meters (15,600 ft). These lakes are located in the Shimshal Pamir region near the China border.
If you wanna go on this adventure, firstly embark on a jeep ride to Shimshal Valley which is 40 hours away from Hunza. While this adventurous journey will take 7-8 hours from Gilgit. Then from Shimshal Valley, it will take 3 days of patience to reach the marvelous Shimshal Lakes. While on the trek, you’ll pass through various camping sites like Past Farzeen, Uch Farzeen, Parian Sar, Arbab Paria and, Shujareb.
To begin your adventure, embark on an exciting jeep ride to Shimshal Village, which takes approximately 4-5 hours from Karimabad Hunza or 7-8 hours from Gilgit. From there, get ready for a challenging three-day trek that will lead you to the Shimshal Lakes and Pass, passing through captivating campsites like Past Farzeen, Uch Farzeen, Parian Sar, Arbab Parian, Shujareb, and ultimately reaching Shimshal Pass.
Zharba Lake
Explore Zharba Tso, the captivating Blind Lake near Shigar Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It serves as a vital water reservoir for the region, fed by the Indus River. Surrounded by the Indus River on one side and the Shigar River on the other, Zharba Tso offers a mesmerizing vista. Discover the harmonious blend of serene waters and lush landscapes at this hidden gem. Experience the tranquil oasis of Zharba Tso, a testament to nature’s beauty.
Conclusion
Pakistan is blessed with a diverse and enchanting array of lakes. From the majestic Attabad Lake in Gilgit-Baltistan to the serene Satpara Lake in Skardu, these natural wonders captivate with their beauty. Each lake has its own unique characteristics, from the high-altitude Rush Lake to the tranquil Lower Kachura Lake.
These lakes not only provide stunning landscapes but also serve as vital water sources for local communities. With their crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, these lakes offer a haven for nature enthusiasts and a source of inspiration for artists and photographers. Pakistan’s lakes are a testament to the country’s rich natural heritage and a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility and awe-inspiring vistas.