Elevation
2,400 m
Best Time
June – September
Temperature
5°C – 25°C (summer), -20°C – 0°C (winter)
Region
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
About Naran
Naran is a small but bustling mountain town in the Kaghan Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, situated at 2,400 metres along the Kunhar River. It serves as the main base for visiting Lake Saif-ul-Muluk — a glacial lake at 3,224m that is consistently rated among the most beautiful lakes in the world. The surrounding Kaghan Valley offers dramatic mountain scenery, alpine meadows (malghuzar), glacial streams and the famous Babusar Pass (4,173m) connecting to Gilgit-Baltistan. Naran is accessible only from June to October — winter snowfall closes all roads completely. The town comes alive in peak season with visitors from across Pakistan.
How to Get There
From Islamabad: 5–7 hours by road (230 km) via Abbottabad and Balakot. From Lahore: 8–10 hours. Regular buses and van services from Rawalpindi/Islamabad. From mid-July to September, jeeps operate from Naran to Lake Saif-ul-Muluk (30 minutes). The road is closed November to May due to snow.
Things To Do in Naran
Lake Saif-ul-Muluk
A glacial lake at 3,224m surrounded by snow-capped peaks — voted one of the world's most beautiful lakes. Accessible by jeep from Naran (30 min, PKR 300–500 per person). Row boats available at the lake.
Babusar Pass
A high mountain pass at 4,173m connecting Kaghan Valley with Chilas on the Karakoram Highway. Open July–September only. Offers stunning views and a classic day trip from Naran.
Jalkhad & Batakundi
Quieter alpine villages 20–30 km north of Naran with beautiful meadows, streams and camping grounds. Less crowded alternatives to Naran town.
Ansoo Lake Trek
A challenging 2-day trek to a teardrop-shaped glacial lake at 4,050m. One of Pakistan's most famous trek destinations. A guide is essential.
Lulusar Lake
A beautiful lake 56 km north of Naran at 3,400m, near Babusar Pass. Easily combined with a Babusar Pass day trip.
Kunhar River Rafting
White-water rafting on the Kunhar River is available near Balakot and Shogran during summer. A thrilling addition to a Naran trip.
Tips for Visiting Naran
- Visit only between June and September — the road closes entirely in winter due to deep snow.
- Jeep hire to Saif-ul-Muluk is mandatory as personal vehicles are not allowed on the upper road in peak season.
- Book hotels in advance for July–August — Naran fills up completely during school holidays and Eid.
- Altitude sickness is possible — take it slow on arrival and stay hydrated.
- Carry warm clothing even in summer — temperatures drop below 10°C at night.
- Fuel up your vehicle in Balakot — petrol can be scarce and expensive in Naran.
- The Naran bazaar has basic restaurants and shops but nothing fancy — bring snacks and supplies from Islamabad.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Naran open for tourists?▾
Naran is open from approximately June to October. The road typically opens in late May or early June after snowmelt and closes again in late October or November.
How long is the drive from Islamabad to Naran?▾
Approximately 5 to 7 hours (230 km) depending on traffic and road conditions. Stops in Abbottabad and Balakot are recommended.
How do I get to Lake Saif-ul-Muluk from Naran?▾
Hire a jeep from Naran bazaar — approximately PKR 2,500–4,000 per jeep (shared or private). The journey takes 30–45 minutes on a rough mountain road. No private cars are allowed on the upper road in season.
Is it safe to visit Naran?▾
Yes, Naran is safe for tourists. The main risks are altitude sickness (manageable with gradual acclimatisation), and mountain road hazards. Always check road and weather conditions before travelling.
What is the best hotel in Naran?▾
Options range from basic guesthouses (PKR 3,000–5,000/night) to mid-range hotels along the main bazaar (PKR 8,000–20,000/night). Batakundi and Jalkhad have quieter, more scenic options. Book via EasyBooking for verified properties.
Can I camp in Naran?▾
Yes, camping is possible in the surrounding meadows and near Babusar Pass and Lulusar Lake. Local guides and tour operators can arrange camping equipment and guided trips.
Book Hotels in Naran
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View HotelsNearby Attractions
- Lake Saif-ul-Muluk
- Babusar Pass
- Lulusar Lake
- Ansoo Lake
- Shogran
- Balakot