
How to Survive on the road to Naltar Lakes
Pakistan, asia
30 km
3,150 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure awaits! Nestled in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region, you'll find the stunning Naltar Lakes: Strangi, Blue, and Bodlok. These beauties, also called Bashkiri Lakes, sit high in the Naltar Valley – seriously, people call this valley the "magic carpet" of Pakistan, and it's easy to see why.
Getting there? Buckle up! The Naltar Valley Road is a wild 30km (19 miles) unpaved ride starting from Nomal. You'll definitely need a 4x4 and some serious driving skills. The road hugs the Naltar River, so watch out for potential flooding.
These lakes are way up there, between 3,050 and 3,150 meters above sea level. Heads up that the road’s usually snowed in during winter, with snowbanks reaching 10-15 feet! If you're hitting it during those months, expect a trek. For the best experience, aim to visit between May and October.
Where is it?
How to Survive on the road to Naltar Lakes is located in Pakistan (asia). Coordinates: 30.9758, 70.3346
Road Details
- Country
- Pakistan
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 30 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,150 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 30.9758, 70.3346
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