Lake Saiful Mulook
Nestled high in the northern reaches of Kaghan Valley, Lake Saiful Mulook is one of Pakistan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Malika Parbat, the lake exudes an ethereal beauty that feels almost otherworldly. Its shimmering turquoise waters, mystical legends, and serene atmosphere have earned it the title of one of the most stunning lakes on Earth.
This mesmerizing lake formed more than 300,000 years ago during the Pleistocene Age, when retreating glaciers left behind a vast depression that gradually filled with melting glacial water. Today, Lake Saiful Mulook continues to captivate travelers with its stillness and charm—by day, it glitters under the mountain sun, and by night, it mirrors the Milky Way, leaving visitors in awe of nature’s artistry.
The Legend of Lake Saiful Mulook
One of the reasons Lake Saiful Mulook is so beloved is its magical folklore. The Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh immortalized the lake in his famous tale, “Saif-ul-Mulook.” According to legend, Prince Saif-ul-Mulook, an Egyptian prince, fell in love with Princess Badri-ul-Jamala, a fairy who lived at the lake. Their love story, however, was complicated by Deo Safaid, a white giant who also loved the fairy princess.
In a heart-wrenching turn, Deo Safaid’s sorrow created another nearby lake, Ansoo Lake, shaped like a teardrop. To this day, visitors can trek from Lake Saiful Mulook to Ansoo Lake, a challenging hike that takes seven to nine hours through some of the most enchanting mountain scenery in Pakistan.
Location and Geography
Lake Saiful Mulook lies about 9 kilometers north of Naran, in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It sits at an elevation of 3,224 meters (10,578 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest alpine lakes in Pakistan. The lake lies within Saiful Mulook National Park, surrounded by the mighty Himalayan foothills.
The lake covers an area of 2.75 square kilometers, with an average depth of 34 meters. Its vibrant turquoise color comes from the blue-green algae and minerals that thrive in its icy waters, which remain below 10°C even during summer.
Ecology and Natural Beauty
The ecosystem around Lake Saiful Mulook is rich in biodiversity. The cold waters are home to large brown trout, some weighing up to 7 kilograms, and the surrounding meadows are filled with wildflowers and rare alpine plants. Scientists have recorded more than 26 vascular plant species in the area, including members of the Asteraceae, Pinaceae, and Gramineae families.
Visitors are often amazed by the sheer clarity of the water, the pristine mountain air, and the tranquil stillness of the surroundings. On clear nights, campers can witness a magical view of the Milky Way reflected on the lake’s glassy surface — a sight that has inspired countless fairy tales over the centuries.
Things to Do at Lake Saiful Mulook
Whether you’re an adventurer or a peace-seeker, Lake Saiful Mulook offers something for everyone:
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🛶 Boating: Local villagers offer wooden boat rides across the shimmering blue waters.
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🏕️ Camping: Spend a night under the stars for a truly magical experience.
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🐎 Horse Riding: Enjoy scenic horse or pony rides around the lake (fare ranges from PKR 200–300).
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🎿 Glacier Skiing: During the early spring months, skiing is possible near the glacier-fed slopes.
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🍛 Local Food & Tea Stalls: Savor delicious Pakistani dishes at small restaurants overlooking the lake.
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🥾 Hiking to Ansoo Lake: For adventure lovers, a 7–9 hour trek leads to the stunning, teardrop-shaped Ansoo Lake, usually hidden by mist.
The area is also ideal for photography, with breathtaking views of Malika Parbat and the surrounding peaks reflecting in the emerald waters.
Best Time to Visit Lake Saiful Mulook
The best time to visit Lake Saiful Mulook is between May and mid-September, when the roads to Naran are open and the weather is pleasant. During winter, heavy snowfall and landslides block access, making the lake unreachable.
In summer, visitors can comfortably camp, trek, and enjoy the full splendor of this high-altitude wonder. The lake remains cool year-round, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of Pakistan’s plains.
How to Reach Lake Saiful Mulook
Your journey to Lake Saiful Mulook begins in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. From there:
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Islamabad to Mansehra: Travel via the Hazara Motorway through Abbottabad to reach Mansehra City.
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Mansehra to Naran: Follow the Naran–Babusar Top Road, which passes through Balakot and winds up into the Kaghan Valley.
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Naran to Lake Saiful Mulook: Once in Naran, you can either:
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Take a 30-minute jeep ride through rugged mountain roads, or
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Embark on a scenic 2–3 hour hike to reach the lake.
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Both routes offer breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and snow-clad mountains along the way.
Temperature and Climate
Even in summer, the temperature of Lake Saiful Mulook rarely exceeds 10°C, as the water primarily comes from melting glaciers. Visitors should carry warm clothing, especially for evenings, which can get quite cold.
The Formation of Lake Saiful Mulook
The lake was formed by glacial moraines that blocked the valley’s stream during the Pleistocene Period. As glaciers melted, the trapped water accumulated, creating the natural wonder we see today. This process also shaped much of the Kaghan Valley, leaving behind dramatic ridges, valleys, and rocky formations.
Why Lake Saiful Mulook is So Special
Few places in the world can compare to the magic of Lake Saiful Mulook. The combination of mythology, mountain scenery, and crystal-clear water gives it an aura of mystery and romance. Whether you visit for a day trip, a night of camping, or the challenge of reaching Ansoo Lake, you’ll carry the memory of this lake forever.
It’s a destination where myth meets nature, where the stars reflect on glacial water, and where the beauty of Pakistan’s northern landscapes unfolds in full glory.
Contact Us to Visit Lake Saiful Mulook
Ready to witness the magical Lake Saiful Mulook in all its glory?
We offer customized tour packages, guided trips, and scenic itineraries to Naran and Kaghan Valley. From jeep rides to camping under the stars, we make your journey comfortable, safe, and unforgettable.
📩 Contact us today to plan your dream trip to Lake Saiful Mulook!