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If you are an adventurous traveler who loves to explore the hidden wonders of nature, you might want to visit Kutwal Lake. This spectacular lake is located in the Haramosh Valley of Gilgit district, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The lake is nestled among some of the highest peaks of the Karakoram range, such as Haramosh Peak, Laila Peak, and Dobani Peak.
Kutwal Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in Pakistan, with its turquoise water contrasting with the snow-capped mountains and glaciers. The lake is situated at an altitude of 3,310 meters (10,860 feet) above sea level, which makes it a challenging but rewarding trek for thrill seekers. The lake is also a paradise for anglers, as it is abundant in trout fish. The lake and its surroundings are rich in biodiversity, where you can encounter various flora and fauna.
Kutwal Lake is about 19 kilometers from Sassi, a small village on the Gilgit-Skardu road. You can reach Sassi by road from Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, which is about 95 kilometers away. From Sassi, you can take a jeep ride to Dasu, the trailhead for the trek to the lake. The jeep ride takes about 75 minutes and passes through scenic mountain villages. From Dasu, you have to hike for about 6 hours to reach Kutwal village, where you can camp for the night. From Kutwal village, you have to hike for another 2 hours to reach the lake.
The best time to visit Kutwal Lake is between June and October, when the weather is mild and the lake is at its most beautiful. The lake’s water level begins to rise in May and reaches its peak in August. In winter, the lake freezes and the area is covered with snow, which offers a different kind of charm. However, the winter season is not recommended for tourists, as the temperature drops below freezing and the road conditions are poor.
Kutwal Lake is a perfect place to enjoy nature and relax. You can admire the amazing views of the lake and the mountains, take photos, have a picnic, or camp by the shore. You can also try your luck at fishing, as the lake is full of trout. However, you need to obtain a fishing license from the Gilgit Baltistan Fisheries Department, as fishing without a license is illegal. You can also explore the nearby areas, such as Kusumboor, Broq la, Siachen la, Khaloq la, Snonpo Ranga, and Chan la, which are some of the places in the mountain wilderness beyond the lake.
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