Naran Kaghan travel guide: Lake Saiful Muluk, Babusar Top and the best season
The Kaghan Valley is one of Pakistan's favourite summer escapes: green meadows, glacier-fed rivers and high lakes, within a day's drive of Islamabad. Naran is the main base, and most trips combine it with Shogran, Lake Saiful Muluk and Babusar Top.
Best time to visit
The main season runs from late spring to early autumn, roughly May to September. In winter, heavy snow closes the road beyond Kaghan and most hotels in Naran shut. Babusar Top, the high pass beyond Naran, usually opens only in the warmer months once the snow is cleared, so check its status before you plan a crossing.
The route from Islamabad
The usual route runs Islamabad, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Balakot, Kaghan and Naran. The Hazara Motorway has made the first part much faster. Most groups reach Naran in one long day, or break the journey with a night in Balakot or Shogran.
Places not to miss
- Shogran and Siri Paye: a forested hill resort, with jeep rides up to the meadows of Siri Paye.
- Lake Saiful Muluk: the famous lake above Naran, reached by jeep. Go early in the morning for calm water and fewer people.
- Lulusar Lake: a long, quiet lake on the road towards Babusar.
- Babusar Top: a high pass with wide mountain views, when open. Weather changes fast at altitude.
- Kunhar River: follow it through the valley, with stops at riverside cafes and waterfalls along the way.
Tips for families and groups
- Avoid driving after dark on mountain roads.
- Carry warm clothes; nights in Naran are cold even in summer, and colder at the lakes.
- Jeep rides are bumpy. Keep them optional for elderly travellers and young children.
- Weekends and Eid holidays are very busy. Book rooms early.
- Mobile signal can be weak in places; share your plan with family before you go.
Plan a Naran Kaghan tour
We arrange Naran Kaghan tours for families, groups, schools and companies, with transport, hotels and meals, and options to combine the trip with Murree or the Galiyat on the way.
