Saiful Muluk Lake

Are you looking for a place to experience the magic and the romance of Pakistan? Do you want to witness the beauty and the splendor of the Kaghan Valley? Do you want to indulge in some exciting activities and attractions on and around a mesmerizing lake?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should not miss Saiful Maluk Lake, a natural lake near Naran Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Saiful Maluk Lake is one of the most beautiful and enchanting lakes in Pakistan, with sapphire blue water surrounded by towering glaciers, including Malika Parbat. The lake is not only a tourist attraction, but also a place of legend and folklore, as it is the setting of a famous fairy tale called Saif-ul-Muluk, written by the Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about Saiful Maluk Lake, including how to get there, what to do there, and why to visit there.

Saiful MulukAt an altitude of 3,224 m (10,578 feet) above sea level it is amongst one of the highest lakes in Pakistan. The water is spectacularly clear with a slight green tone.

Is is a lake located at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley near Naran. A fairy tale called Saiful Muluk, written by the famous Panjabi sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh,is associated with the lake.

The Lake Saiful Muluk is named after a legendary prince. A fairy tale called Saif-ul-Muluk, written by the Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, talks of the lake.It tells the story of the prince of Persia named Prince Saiful Malook who fell in love with a fairy princess named Princess Badri-ul-Jamala at the lake.

It is in the north east of Mansehra district of North West Frontier Province, Pakistan.  The clarity of the water comes from the multiple glaciers all around the high basin feeding the lake which provides a spectacular scenery. Malka Parbat that is shining in the lake is the biggest source.

The lake has rich eco-diversity and holds many species of blue-green algae. Large brown trout are found in the lake, up to about seven kilograms. About 26 species of vascular plant exist in the area, with Asteraceae the most commonly found species.

Other species commonly found in the region are: Ranunculaceae, Compositae, Cruciferae, Gramineae, Apiaceae, Leguminosae, Scrophulariaceae and Polygonaceae. Saiful Muluk was formed by glacial moraines that blocked the water of the stream passing through the valley.

The Kaghan Valley was formed in the greater Pleistocene Period dating back almost 300,000 years when the area was covered with ice. Rising temperatures and receding glaciers left a large depression where glaciers once stood. Melting water collected into the lake.

The lake is accessible by a 14km jeep road from Naran which is accessible by a metalled road from Mansehra via Balakot and Kaghan during the summer months. On foot, the trek from Naran to the lake takes about 4-6 hours.

How to Get to Saiful Muluk Lake

Saiful Maluk Lake is located at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, near the town of Naran, in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. You can reach the lake by road, either by hiring a private car or by taking a public bus from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The road to the lake is scenic and adventurous, passing through the Karakoram Highway, the Balakot, and the Naran. The journey takes about 6 hours by car or 8 hours by bus.

Alternatively, you can also fly to Islamabad from other major cities of Pakistan, and then take a road trip to the lake. The flight takes about an hour and offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. However, the flights are often subject to weather conditions and cancellations, so it is advisable to book in advance and have a flexible itinerary.

What to Do at Saiful Muluk Lake

Saiful Maluk Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can enjoy a range of activities and attractions at the lake, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the best things to do at Saiful Maluk Lake:

• Boating: One of the most popular and relaxing ways to explore the lake is by boating. You can rent a boat from the local operators and cruise around the lake, admiring the sapphire blue water, the snow-capped mountains, and the colorful flowers. You can also visit the island in the middle of the lake, which has a small shrine and some trees. Boating is available throughout the year, except in winter when the lake freezes.
• Hiking: If you are into hiking, you can explore the surrounding trails and hills that offer stunning views of the lake and the valley. You can hike to different viewpoints and attractions, such as the Ansoo Lake, the Lalazar, and the Babusar Pass. The trails are of varying difficulty and length, so you can choose the one that suits your level and time. Hiking is best done from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom.
• Camping: If you want to spend a night under the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the lake, you can camp at the lake. There are several campsites around the lake that provide tents, mattresses, blankets, and other facilities. You can also bring your own camping gear and pitch your tent at a suitable spot. Camping is a great way to experience the lake at different times of the day and night, and to connect with nature and the local culture. Camping is available from April to October, depending on the weather and water level.
• Fishing: If you are fond of fishing, you can try your luck at catching some trout fish at the lake. The lake is home to various fish species, including trout, mahseer, and snow trout, making it an angler’s dream. You can either fish on your own or hire a local guide who can provide you with the equipment and the tips. You can also buy fresh fish from the local fishermen and cook it yourself or have it cooked at a nearby restaurant. Fishing is available throughout the year, except in winter when the lake freezes.
• Storytelling: If you are interested in the legend and folklore of the lake, you can listen to the local storytellers who narrate the fairy tale of Saif-ul-Muluk, the prince who fell in love with a fairy princess named Badri-ul-Jamala at the lake. The story is a classic tale of love, adventure, and magic, and is one of the most popular stories in Pakistan. You can also read the poem version of the story, written by the Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh. Storytelling is available throughout the year, especially in the evenings.

Weather and Temperature Chart of Saiful Muluk Lake

The weather and temperature of Saiful Maluk Lake vary according to the seasons. The lake has an alpine climate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The average temperature of the lake ranges from -10°C in winter to 20°C in summer. The lake receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the highest amount in July and August. The lake also freezes in winter, making it inaccessible for boating and fishing.

Here is a table that summarizes the weather and temperature of Saiful Maluk Lake for the year, based on the data from meteoblue:

Why Visit Saiful Maluk Lake

Saiful Maluk Lake is more than just a lake; it is a destination that offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. The lake is a perfect example of the diverse and stunning landscape of Pakistan, with its sapphire blue water, lush green meadows, and snow-capped peaks. The lake is also a place of legend and folklore, as it is the setting of a famous fairy tale that has inspired generations of lovers and dreamers. The lake is also a place of harmony and peace, where you can witness the coexistence of different faiths and communities.

Saiful Maluk Lake is a place where you can experience the magic and the romance of Pakistan. It is a place that will leave you in awe and inspire you to explore more of this amazing country. It is a place that you should not miss when you visit Pakistan.