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Naltar Lake, also known as Bashkiri Lake, is one of the most beautiful and serene lakes in Pakistan. Located in the Naltar Valley, about 34 kilometers from Gilgit, the lake is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. The lake has a unique emerald green color, which is due to the grasses and plants that grow inside the water. The lake is a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers who want to experience the tranquility and beauty of the northern areas of Pakistan.
There are three lakes in Naltar Valley known as Naltar Lakes Bashkiri Lakes at altitudes ranging from 3,050–3,150 metres (10,010–10,330 ft). The lakes are surrounded by dense pine forests. In one of the three lakes colour of water is green (due to grasses grown inside the lake) while the second has blue colored water and the third has azure colored water. The first, Bashkiri Lake is located at a distance of about 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) from Upper Naltar (or the Naltar Bala). The road up to the lakes is a dirt road alongside a stream flowing down the valley.
To reach Naltar Lake, you need to take a jeep or a car from Gilgit to Naltar Bala, which is a small village in the Naltar Valley. The road is unpaved and narrow, but it offers scenic views of the valley and the stream that flows along the road. From Naltar Bala, you need to hike for about 13 kilometers to reach the lake. The hike is moderate to difficult, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions. You can also hire a horse or a donkey to carry your luggage or yourself. The hike will take you through pine forests, meadows, and rocky terrain, and you will be rewarded with the stunning sight of the lake at the end.
Naltar Lake is a place where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. You can take pictures of the lake and the surrounding landscape, which are breathtaking in every season. You can also camp near the lake, but you need to bring your own camping gear and food. There is no electricity or facilities at the lake, so you need to be prepared for a rustic and adventurous experience. You can also explore the other four lakes in the Naltar Valley, which are Satrangi Lake, Halima Lake, Bodo Lake, and Pari Lake. Each lake has its own charm and color, and they are worth visiting if you have time and energy.
The best time to visit Naltar Lake is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible by road and hiking. During the winter, the lake is frozen and covered with snow, and the road is blocked by heavy snowfall. However, some people still visit the lake in the winter to enjoy the snow and the skiing opportunities in the Naltar Valley. The Naltar Valley is home to the Naltar Ski Resort, which is one of the oldest and most popular ski resorts in Pakistan. The resort hosts national and international skiing competitions every year, and attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the country and the world.
Naltar Lake is a hidden gem of Pakistan, which is not very well-known or crowded by tourists. It is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and reconnect with nature. It is a place where you can admire the beauty and diversity of Pakistan’s northern areas, which are rich in culture, history, and wildlife. It is a place where you can have a memorable and adventurous trip, which will leave you with unforgettable memories and stories to tell. Naltar Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and peace.
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