Pakistan’s Beloved Summer Valley

When temperatures hit 45°C in the plains, half of Pakistan escapes north to Naran and Kaghan. This 155-km valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a summer paradise of glacial rivers, pine-covered slopes, snow-fed lakes, and cool mountain air. It’s easier to reach than Hunza or Skardu, closer to Islamabad, and packed with the country’s most famous alpine landmarks — including the legendary Saif-ul-Malook Lake. In 2026, road improvements and rising standards of hotels have made Naran a comfortable trip even for family groups.

Best Time to Visit

• May–June: Snow melts, roads to Naran open, waterfalls at peak flow (10–20°C)
• July–August: Peak season, all attractions accessible including Babusar Top, warm days (18–25°C)
• September–early October: Autumn colours, fewer crowds, cool evenings
• November–April: Naran heavy snow, roads closed beyond Kaghan; only Balakot and Shogran reachable

Top Places to Visit in Naran & Kaghan

1. Saif-ul-Malook Lake

The iconic centrepiece — a 3,224 m glacial lake surrounded by peaks. Reflections of Malika Parbat (5,290 m) in still water. Reachable by 4×4 jeep from Naran town (14 km). Legend: Prince Saif fell in love with a fairy queen here.

2. Lulusar Lake

50 km beyond Naran on the Babusar road. The lake’s outflow forms the Kunhar River. Wildflower meadows in July.

3. Babusar Top (Pass)

At 4,173 m, the highest point of the Naran–Chilas road. Panoramic views of Nanga Parbat on clear days. Only open June to September.

4. Shogran & Siri Paye Meadows

Shogran is a hill station at 2,362 m. From here, a jeep track leads to Siri Paye Meadows — vast grasslands with Makra Peak backdrop.

5. Ansoo Lake (Tear-Shaped Lake)

A high-altitude glacial lake in the shape of a tear. A challenging 5–6 hour trek from Saif-ul-Malook. Only for fit trekkers with a local guide.

6. Dudipatsar Lake

A stunning turquoise lake at 3,800 m. Requires a full day trek from Besal (near Lulusar) — 5–6 hours each way.

7. Kunhar River

Runs alongside the entire road. Excellent trout fishing (permits required) and rafting in June–August.

8. Balakot & Kaghan Town

The valley’s entry town. Rebuilt after the 2005 earthquake. Base for day trips into the valley.

9. Naran Bazaar

The main tourist town of the valley. Souvenirs, dry fruits, hats, walking sticks, and dozens of restaurants.

How to Get to Naran

By Road

From Islamabad → Naran via Balakot: about 240 km, 6–8 hours. Via Motorway M-1 to Hasanabdal → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Balakot → Kaghan → Naran. Roads are paved and comfortable up to Naran.

From Lahore

Lahore → Naran: 550 km, 10–12 hours. Most travellers overnight in Islamabad and continue next morning.

Public Transport

Daewoo Express to Mansehra → local Suzuki or hiace to Naran. Or dedicated tourist coaches from Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Pine Park Hotel Naran, Arcadian Sarai Shogran
• Mid-range: Alpine Hotel Naran, Hotel Lalazar, PTDC Motels (Naran & Balakot)
• Budget: Guest houses in Naran from PKR 3,000/night; tents and camping in Lulusar area (summer only)
• Shogran retreats: Arcadian Blue Pines, Siri Paye Resorts

What to Eat

• Grilled trout: Fresh from Kunhar River, sold at Naran roadside stalls
• Chapli kebab: Peshawari-style beef patty grilled outdoors
• Karahi at Naran Bazaar restaurants: Try Lalazar or Cliff View
• Traditional Kashmiri chai (pink noon chai): Sold in small cafés
• Corn on the cob (bhutta): Roasted with salt, lemon, and chilli at every viewpoint

Suggested 5-Day Naran–Kaghan Itinerary

• Day 1: Islamabad → Mansehra → Balakot → overnight Kaghan or Shogran
• Day 2: Shogran → Siri Paye Meadows jeep trip → back to Kaghan → drive to Naran
• Day 3: Naran bazaar → Saif-ul-Malook Lake jeep trip → sunset return
• Day 4: Lulusar Lake → Babusar Top → return by evening
• Day 5: Optional Ansoo Lake trek (fit hikers) or Kunhar River relaxation → depart

Practical Tips

• Book hotels in advance for July–August; walk-in rates during Eid holidays are painful
• Only 4×4 jeeps make it to Saif-ul-Malook — hire from Naran bazaar (PKR 3,500–5,000 return)
• Babusar Top jeep trips: full day, cost about PKR 8,000–12,000
• Fuel tanks: fill up at Balakot and Mansehra — Naran station often runs out in peak season
• Cash-only mostly; ATMs in Balakot and Naran but often out of service
• Mobile coverage: patchy above Kaghan; Jazz and SCOM work best
• Carry warm clothes even in July — Saif-ul-Malook is 3,200 m and cold
• Trout fishing permits from PKR 300/day at Naran fisheries office

Final Word

Naran and Kaghan are Pakistan’s summer soul. It’s not the most remote or dramatic valley, but it’s the most beloved — and once you’ve eaten grilled trout by the Kunhar as the sun sets over pines, you’ll understand exactly why.