Best Places to Visit in Naran Kaghan

Naran Kaghan is one of the most beautiful valleys in Pakistan. It is well known both in the country and among international tourists. Every year, more than 1.5 million visitors come to explore the valley, making it one of the most visited destinations in northern Pakistan. The pleasant summer weather, snow-covered mountains, green meadows, and peaceful lakes attract travelers from all over the world.

The main attractions in Naran Kaghan include Shogran, Kaghan, Lake Saif-ul-Malook, Siri Paye, Naran Town, Babusar Top, and Lulusar Lake. Each of these places offers its own beauty and charm, making this region one of the best areas to explore in Pakistan.

Best Places to Stay in Naran Kaghan

The best areas to stay overnight are Shogran and Naran Town, where visitors can find plenty of hotels, rest houses, and guest rooms. These towns are full of life during summer, with visitors enjoying horse riding, jeep rides, bonfires, and beautiful evenings in the valley. From Naran, you can easily visit Siri Paye and Lake Saif-ul-Malook by jeep.

Location

Naran Town is located in the upper Kaghan Valley in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. It lies at an altitude of 2,409 meters (7,904 ft), around 119 km (74 miles) from Mansehra city. Babusar Top is about 65 km (40 miles) away from Naran.

Climate

Naran has a humid continental climate, with cool summers and snowy winters. The weather remains cloudy most of the year. In winter, temperatures drop below 0°C, and heavy snowfall covers the region. During summer, the temperature stays around 15°C and frequent rains keep the valley fresh and green.
The best time to visit is from June to October, when roads are open and the valley is full of life.

Things to Do in Naran Kaghan

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in Naran Kaghan — from sightseeing and hiking to shopping and food exploration.

Shopping at Naran Mall Road: You’ll find stitched and unstitched clothes, woolen caps, shawls, toys, dry fruits, and handmade crafts.
Local Food: The valley is famous for its mutton and chicken dishes, trout fish, Afghani cuisine, karahi, ice cream, and hot beverages.
Transportation: You can reach Naran by private car or public transport. The route from Islamabad, Mansehra, Balakot, Abbottabad, and Peshawar is commonly used. Public buses are also available.

The Best Places to Visit in Naran Kaghan

1. Shogran

Shogran is a small hill station about 30 km from Balakot, surrounded by pine forests and green meadows. It remains pleasant during the summer, with temperatures around 18°C. The place is ideal for families and couples who love calm weather and scenic views.

Best Place to Stay: Pine Park Shogran offers great accommodation options.
Location: 20–30 minutes’ drive from Kiwayi.
Weather: Cool and comfortable in summer, cold in winter.

2. Siri Paye

Siri Paye is a peaceful meadow located above Shogran. It is known for its fresh air, green fields, and clear views of snow-covered mountains. On your way to Shogran, you can also visit Siri Lake. The road from Shogran to Siri Paye is rough, but the view makes it worth it.

Location: About 6 miles from Shogran.
Best Route: Hire a jeep from Shogran to Siri Paye.
Activities: Horse riding, short hiking, photography, and enjoying cool mountain air.

3. Naran Town

Naran is the main town of the valley, located 120 km from Mansehra. As you approach it, you’ll see glaciers and rivers flowing along the road. Naran has many hotels like PTDC Naran, De Manche, Rose Valley, Pine Park, and Faran Hotel.

Location: Situated along the Kunhar River, which flows from Lake Saif-ul-Malook.
Best Time to Visit: From mid-June to mid-November.

4. Lalazar Meadows

Lalazar is one of the most scenic spots in Naran Kaghan. It offers wide green meadows, cool weather, and excellent views of Babusar Top. The area is at an altitude of 3,123 meters, making it a perfect picnic point for families.
The best way to reach Lalazar is by jeep, as the route is steep but adventurous.

5. Kaghan Valley

Before reaching Naran, you pass through Kaghan, another beautiful part of the valley. Kaghan is known for its alpine scenery and traditional market along the N-15 highway.

Location: Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Access: From Balakot via Mansehra and Abbottabad.
Families often stop here to enjoy the river views, local tea, and simple meals before continuing toward Naran.

6. Jharkhand

Jharkhand (also known locally as Jhalkhad) is the second last town in the Kaghan Valley before Babusar Top. It is surrounded by the Kunhar River and green meadows. The height is around 3,410 meters, and it offers great views of the upper Kaghan region.

7. Lake Saif-ul-Malook

Lake Saif-ul-Malook is one of Pakistan’s most famous lakes. It is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and has crystal-clear water. According to a local legend, it was the place where a Prince of Persia met a fairy princess, making it a romantic and mysterious spot.

Location: About 7 km from Naran Bazaar, at an altitude of 10,000 feet.
Access: You can reach the lake by hiring a jeep or trekking on foot.

8. Babusar Top

Babusar Top is one of the highest points in northern Pakistan and a must-visit on your Naran Kaghan trip. It connects Thak Nala to Chilas and provides a route to Hunza, Skardu, and Fairy Meadows.

Location: Altitude 4,173 meters, around 65 km from Naran.
Best Route: Any vehicle can reach the top, but drivers should be experienced due to steep roads.

9. Lulusar Lake

Lulusar Lake lies within the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park. The name “Lulusar” comes from the Pashto words Lulu (mountain) and Sar (top). The lake is known for its deep blue color and calm surroundings.

Location: Altitude 11,200 feet (3,410 meters), about 50 km from Naran.
Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours by jeep from Naran Town.
Best Stop: Moon Restaurant near the route is a good place for tea or snacks.
Activities: Boating, fishing, rafting, hiking, and photography.

Contact Us to Visit Naran Kaghan

If you want to plan a trip to Naran Kaghan and explore all these beautiful places with comfort, contact Repeatrip Tours. We can arrange travel, hotels, and complete tour packages to make your visit smooth and memorable.