Where?

Kaghan Valley, Pakistan

Why?

Shrouded in Pakistani folklore, the landscapes of the Kaghan
Valley are as enchanting as the fairy tales set here. Honey-hued
cattle roam alpine pastures. Lakes are cradled by snow-capped
glaciers.

Of the valley’s bodies of water, the most notable is Saiful
Muluk, one of the highest lakes in Pakistan hailed for its
photogenic quality. Reflective blue hues dance across the
surrounding mountainscape while, at night, the still waters mirror
star-studded skies.

Locals will be enthused to tell you that the mountainous
backdrop is said to be where a prince of Egypt, Saif-ul-Malook,
fell in love with the fairy princess, Badi-ul-Jamal.

After you’ve caught your breath marvelling at Lake Saiful Muluk,
you’ll want to reach Ansoo Lake. The tear-dropped shaped pool was
first spotted by Pakistan Air Force Police in 1993 while they were
flying over the Himalayas at low altitude. Before this, no-one knew
of its existence and even to this day – thanks to the strenuous
hike – it remains virtually

Where to stay

Walnut Cottage for its undisturbed valley
views.

What to pack

Some of the hikes you’ll be tackling in the valley are pretty
hardcore; pack this Halo Bottle to help you keep hydrated. Your
morning chai will stay warm and your water, cool.

Travel tip-off

Heavy snowfall between November and May
can seriously disrupt travel plans. Visit in June
or July,
when the roads and the Babusar Pass are sure to be uninterrupted by
glaciers.

How to get there

You’ll want to drive Islamabad to Mansehra, then continue onto
Nārān via the Nārān Road. The journey should take about six
hours.