Top 5 Famous Lakes of Pakistan 

Pakistan is a country of great and diverse beauty. From the glaciers in the North, where the river Indus flows, to the ocean in Karachi, where all the country’s waters culminate, Pakistan is a beautifully carved landscape. Amongst the country’s numerous marvels is its famous collection of world-renowned lakes. If you are planning a trip across Pakistan, then we have a great collection of lakes that you must visit. 

In this article, we will introduce you to the top famous lakes of Pakistan. Lakes are great water reserves of nature that fuel the life around them. They are also great resorts of nature built for tranquility and peace. From a touristy point of view, lakes are also exciting opportunities for watersports and fishing. So, let’s explore more of the famous lakes of Pakistan. 

Guide to Famous Lakes in Pakistan 

Lakes provide calmness and a break from the busy city life. As a very active tourist, if you are looking for a retreat and a relaxing experience from all this travel, then you should definitely take time out and head to any one of the famous lakes of Pakistan. They are spread all over the country and which lake you will have access to will really depend on which city of Pakistan are you in. Nevertheless, these lakes are likely to be in your vicinity if you are in any of the major cities of Pakistan. So, without further ado, let’s just delve into the world of famous lakes of Pakistan. 

Keenjhar Lake – Hyderabad

If you are traveling to Pakistan for business, the chances are that you will visit the grand financial capital of Karachi. After you are done with your busy meetings and deals, just take a day off and hop on a trip to its twin city – Hyderabad. From Hyderabad, Keenjhar Lake is only an hour by road. Keenjhar Lake is located in the land of Thatta where many cultures clash. 

The lake gets its name from the Sindhi language word “Kalri” meaning “Dark” which is derived from the color of this dark lake. There are water sports, boat rides, and great restaurants as well as resorts built across this lake. While you’re there, enjoy the freshly caught Rahu Fish which is cooked to perfection by the local chefs. 

Saif-ul-Mulook Lake

In for an adventure? Then head to the North of Pakistan through Mansehrah District into Kaghan which is a natural wonder of highlands, mountains, and glaciers. Nestled in the midst of all this amazing scenery, is located the lake Saif-ul-Mulook. It gets its name from a great Sufi who fell in love with a beautiful queen and named this lake after her beauty. This is also the Highest lake in Pakistan. 

It is a very famous tourist spot and every year, thousands of international travelers and enthusiasts go there to gaze at the beauty of this queen of a lake. Summer is a good time to go there because during winter, the lake gets too cold and weather conditions are not favorable for travel. There is plenty to do at this lake including paddleboating, dining, lodging, trekking, and fishing. On the “Pakistan Beautiful Lakes” list, this one surely is a topper.  

Lower Kachura Lake

The Kachura Lake is located in Shangrilah which is a famous tourist spot in Gilgit Baltistan. This is a turquoise lake with crystal clear waters that change color with the shades of the sun and the moon. During the daytime, these waters turn green and at night the water turns blue while dancing with the full moon.

A bit of trek will take you to this lake from the tip of the hill. Tucked in the middle of mountains the Lower Kachura lake is a scenic and tranquil destination for nature lovers. There is plenty to do at this lake including paddleboating, dining, lodging, trekking, and fishing. This is amongst the most famous lakes in Pakistan. 

Rush Lake

Rush Lake is the largest lake in Pakistan. It is located at an elevation of 15,000 feet above sea level in the Nagar Valley of Gilgit, Baltistan. This lake is not just a water reservoir, it is full of activities and sporting events also occur here. Rush Lake is the vantage point for several famous tourist spots including Spantik or Golden Peak, Malubiting or Malubiting West, Ultar Sar, Phuparash Peak, and Miar Peak. You’ll also get to trek to this lake. The trek is a little tough for beginners though, so do keep a tour guide with you. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. 

Swaik Lake 

If you are traveling to Islamabad or if you are visiting Lahore, then hop on a luxury bus ride to Chakwal and descend from the mountainous terrane to visit the huge Swaik Lake. Elevated at an altitude of 2,474 feet, this lake has crystal clear waters. This lake is a reserve of nature that is still untouched and is a very calm and serene spot.

You can also take a 45-minute hike from the M2 motorway. You can also engage in cliff driving which is a leisure drive that will present picturesque views of this valley at the bed of which is located Swaik Lake. 

Conclusion

Pakistan is a land of diverse and breathtaking landscapes, and its famous lakes are a testament to its natural beauty. These serene and vibrant water bodies, from the tranquil Keenjhar Lake in Sindh to the majestic Saif-ul-Mulook in the northern highlands, offer something for every traveler.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, these lakes provide the perfect backdrop. From the turquoise waters of Lower Kachura Lake to the challenging trek to Rush Lake and the untouched beauty of Swaik Lake, each destination showcases the unique charm of Pakistan’s natural wonders. These lakes not only fuel life around them but also offer travelers a much-needed retreat into nature’s serenity.

FAQs 

1. What are the famous lakes of Pakistan that travelers should visit?

Pakistan is home to several famous lakes, including Keenjhar Lake in Sindh, Saif-ul-Mulook in Kaghan, Lower Kachura Lake in Gilgit-Baltistan, Rush Lake in Nagar Valley, and Swaik Lake in Chakwal. These lakes showcase the country’s diverse beauty and provide opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

2. Which is the largest natural lake in Pakistan?

The largest natural lake in Pakistan is Manchar Lake, located in Sindh. However, Rush Lake, in the Nagar Valley, holds the title of being the largest high-altitude lake in the country, sitting at 15,000 feet above sea level.

3. How many lakes are there in Pakistan?

Pakistan is home to over 60 lakes, ranging from glacial lakes in the north to natural and artificial lakes in other parts of the country. These lakes vary in size, location, and significance, offering diverse experiences for visitors.

4. Which is the most beautiful lake in Pakistan?

While beauty is subjective, many travelers consider Saif-ul-Mulook Lake in Kaghan Valley to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. Its pristine waters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the legend of its romantic origin, make it a top tourist attraction.