Lake Saif-ul- Malook Travel & Food Guide

Lake Saif-ul-Malook- Pakistan

 

Overview

Lake Saiful Malook is one of Pakistan’s most breathtaking alpine lakes, located near Naran in the Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Malika Parbat, the lake sits at an elevation of 3,224 meters (10,578 ft) above sea level. The lake is famous for its emerald-green waters, fairy tale legends, and serene beauty.

How to Reach Lake Saiful Malook

From Islamabad/Lahore:

• By Car: Islamabad to Naran takes around 6–7 hours, while from Lahore, it’s around 10–12 hours.
• By Public Transport: You can take a bus to Mansehra/Balakot and then hire a local jeep.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Islamabad International Airport, from where you need to travel by road.

From Naran to Lake Saiful Malook:

• By Jeep (45–60 mins): A 4x4 jeep ride from Naran costs around PKR 4,000–7,000 (round trip).
• By Hike (3–4 hours): If you love trekking, you can hike 7–8 km, but it's steep and challenging.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (May to September): The lake is fully accessible with clear skies, lush greenery, and pleasant weather (10–25°C).
• Winter (October to April): The lake freezes, and heavy snowfall makes access difficult.

Things to Do at Lake Saiful Malook

✅ Boating – Available in summer; costs around PKR 500–1,500 per ride.
✅ Camping – You can camp overnight (bring your own gear or rent a tent).
✅ Photography & Sightseeing – The lake offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
✅ Hiking & Exploring Nearby Valleys – Visit Ansoo Lake (a 5-6 hour hike) or trek around Malika Parbat.
✅ Bonfire & Storytelling – Locals share the legend of Prince Saiful Malook and the fairy queen.

🍽️ Food Guide & Where to Eat

At Lake Saiful Malook

There are small dhabas (roadside cafés) offering:
Daal Chawal (Lentils & Rice) – PKR 300–500
Chicken Karahi – PKR 1,500+ (for a full serving)
Pakoras & Chai – PKR 200–300
Instant Noodles & Snacks – Available but overpriced
Fresh Trout Fish – Available at some dhabas, grilled or fried with local spices (PKR 1,500+ per kg)

Tip: Bring some snacks & water, as prices are higher due to difficult transportation.

Best Food in Naran

Kaghan’s Famous Chapli Kebabs – Must-try!
Kashmiri Chai & Paratha – Perfect for chilly evenings.

Falooda & Ice Cream – A surprising treat in the mountains!

Trout Fish Specialty – Naran is famous for its fresh trout, caught from icy rivers. You can enjoy:

• Grilled Trout with Lemon & Herbs
• Deep-Fried Trout with Local Spices
• Trout Karahi – A unique twist on the classic dish
• Cost: PKR 1,500–3,000 per kg, depending on size and preparation

Where to Stay?

• Luxury: Pearl Continental Naran (PKR 20,000+ per night)
• Mid-Range: Pine Park Hotel (PKR 6,000–12,000 per night)
• Budget: Guesthouses (PKR 2,500–5,000 per night)

Travel Tips

✅ Dress in layers – Even in summer, it gets chilly.
✅ Bring cash – No ATMs at the lake; withdraw in Naran.
✅ Start early – To avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful views.
✅ Stay hydrated & bring snacks – Limited food options at the lake.
✅ Respect nature – Don’t litter and help keep the lake clean.