Saiful Muluk is a mountainous lake in northern Pakistan, located at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, near the town of Naran in the Saiful Muluk National Park. At an elevation of 3,224 m above sea level, the lake is located above the tree line, and is one of the highest lakes in Pakistan.
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Lake Saif-ul-Malook – ranked by The Guardian as the fifth best tourist destination in Pakistan – seems like heaven on earth. The greenish-blue crystal clear and freezing water, surrounded by giant glaciers, including Malika Parbat, reflects the beauty of Saif-ul-Malook.
Location
The divine lake lies at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley near Naran, and in the north east of Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhuwa. It is the highest alpine lake of Pakistan at an altitude of 3,224 metres and 10,578 feet above sea level.
Leisure activities for tourists
The lake is kind of a bowl where multiple glacial waters accumulate. However, it consists of large eco-diversity which includes a rare brown trout fish, bulk amount of blue-green algae, and a variety of water-plants and phytoplankton. Trout fishing is quite popular in Kaghan and in Naran as well.
The magical lake is completely frozen during winters due to heavy snowfall. The ideal time for tourists starts from June to September. The weather of this divine place is extremely pleasant during day time (about 15-20 degree centigrade), whereas at night the temperature drops to three degrees centigrade.
Boating facility is also available for adventure enthusiasts. The experience may be full of excitement but one should be careful because the lake’s depth is still unknown, and there aren’t rescue equipments. So do boating at your own risk! Ponies and horses are also available if one doesn’t want to travel on foot.
Camping at the time of the full moon is like sitting in a fairyland. It is highly recommended for those who want to see the moon shining at it brightest amongst five billion stars in the sky.
Fairy tale of Saif-ul-Malook
The history of this exquisite lake is much famous and attracts the tourists from all over the world. The story is about a prince, Saif-ul-Malook, who fell in love with a fairy princess, Badi-ul-Jamal.
The tale was transformed into a poem by Sufi saint and Punjabi Hindko poet, Mian Muhammad Bakhsh. The same poem was translated into Urdu language by a resident of Balakot, Ahmed Hussain Mujahid. According to the locals it is a place of fairies and demons, who through the extremity of weather display their anger.
A story teller narrated: “I have not seen the fairy, but I’ve seen the glory of God. Every month, on the 14th night of the lunar month, the lake is like a mirror – cradling the mountains, the sky, the innumerable twinkling stars, the glowing orb of the moon – so still, so clear, you can scarcely tell the between reality and reflection. It is a sight to behold! Many a night I have also seen lights, floating lights, a thousand floating lights, here on the slope, where and watched them disappear under the rocks. I have not seen the fairy, Badi-ul-Jamal, but I have witnessed the glory of God.”
Saif-ul-Malook was a prince of Egypt. He had a handsome amount of treasure which he inherited from his forefathers. Inscribed on the treasure were two seals; one bearing the image of Said and the other one being that of Badi-ul-Jamal.
When Saif saw the picture of the fairy he immediately fell in love with her. He then left his home to search for her, a journey that took six years to complete. One day a saint met Saif in a street of Egypt and gave him a Sulemani cap, telling him that it will take the prince to his desired place. The saint told the prince that he would find the fairy in a lake but he had to pass several daunting exams and also pray in order to achieve her, as she was a fairy queen and prince was human. A human eye can never see a demon or fairy as they are...
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A Magical October Visit to Lake Saiful Malook Visiting Saiful Malook in October was nothing short of a dream. Nestled in the majestic Kaghan Valley near Naran, this lake has a charm that words can barely capture. By the time I reached the top, the crisp mountain air, the stillness of the surroundings, and the sight of the lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks created a scene straight out of a fairytale. October, I found, is a perfect time to visit — the summer crowds have faded, the roads are still accessible, and the early winter snow has started to blanket the mountains in pure white.
The journey itself was an adventure. The road from Naran to the lake winds through rugged terrain, and while it’s only about 9 kilometres, the steep ascent and rocky path make it feel longer. Many tourists choose to take jeeps driven by locals who navigate the track expertly, adding a sense of thrill to the trip. Along the way, pine trees thin out and the landscape opens into a wide basin surrounded by towering peaks, with Malika Parbat standing proudly as the highest of them all.
When I arrived, the view simply took my breath away. The lake’s water was crystal clear, reflecting the snowy mountains like a mirror. The thin layer of snow covering the surrounding hills gave the whole area a serene and magical glow. The temperature was cold but refreshing, and the silence was broken only by the sound of wind brushing through the peaks. Standing there, it felt like time had stopped — as if nature wanted to remind me of its untouched beauty and peace.
The local people near the lake were warm and welcoming, offering hot tea and simple snacks. I sat by a small tea stall overlooking the lake, sipping chai while watching the sunlight dance on the water. It’s amazing how something so simple can feel so grand when you’re surrounded by such breathtaking scenery. I also learned that locals tell a romantic legend about the prince Saiful Malook and fairy princess Badi-ul-Jamal, which adds a mystical element to the experience.
October gave me the best of both worlds — clear weather with a touch of early winter magic. The slight chill in the air, the snow on the mountains, and the golden sunlight made it a photographer’s paradise. For those who love nature, peace, and a bit of adventure, Saiful Malook in October is absolutely a must-visit destination.
As I left, I felt grateful for witnessing one of Pakistan’s most beautiful natural wonders. Saiful Malook is not just a lake; it’s an emotion — a place where mountains meet the sky, legends come alive, and every breath feels like a prayer of gratitude. I will surely return, but the memory of that October snow and the silence of the lake will stay...
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Saif ul Malook Lake Review
Located in the picturesque Astore Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, Saif ul Malook Lake is a breathtaking destination that offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here's a detailed review of this stunning lake:
Natural Beauty
The lake's surroundings are nothing short of breathtaking. Towering mountains, lush green meadows, and vibrant wildflowers create a picturesque landscape that will leave you spellbound. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a mirror-like effect that's perfect for photography.
Serenity and Peace
Saif ul Malook Lake is a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility. The lake's serene atmosphere, surrounded by majestic mountains, provides a sense of calm and relaxation. Visitors can sit by the lake's shore, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Adventure Activities
For adventure seekers, Saif ul Malook Lake offers various activities, including:
Hiking: Explore the surrounding mountains and meadows on foot, taking in the stunning views and spotting local wildlife. Trekking: Embark on longer treks to nearby villages, lakes, or mountain peaks, immersing yourself in the region's natural beauty. Boating: Rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely ride on the lake, taking in the surrounding scenery.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
The lake is accessible by road, and visitors can hire jeeps or other vehicles to reach the destination. Basic amenities, such as food stalls and resthouses, are available near the lake.
Important Note
The road to Saif ul Malook Lake can be challenging and requires careful navigation. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, consider hiring a local driver or using a guided tour. Local drivers are familiar with the terrain and road conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.
Tips and Recommendations
Best Time to Visit: June to September is the best time to visit Saif ul Malook Lake, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible. Packing: Bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and essentials like food, water, and sunscreen. Respect Local Environment: Be mindful of the lake's fragile ecosystem and respect local regulations to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Conclusion
Saif ul Malook Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking breathtaking natural beauty, serenity, and adventure. With its stunning surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, and range of activities, this lake is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of...
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