Rama Lake is recommended for drivers with strong nerves
Rama Lake is a high mountain lake at an elevation of 3.507m (11,505ft) above the sea level, located on the eastern slopes of the Nanga Parbat massif, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan.
Located within the Astore Valley, the road to the lake is unpaved. Starting from Astore, also spelt Astor, a city and the capital of Astore District, the drive is 13.3 km long. Expect a couple of hours drive. This trail passes through remote areas, so you need to be prepared. Mobile signals reception is week. The weather is mostly cold all along the year.
The rough road is called Astore-Rama Road. It tests the skill, and courage, of any driver. It’s definitely not for anyone suffering from vertigo or a fear of landslides. For the first 4 – 5 kms the road is bearable but after that the road condition is dilapidated and there is a constant steep ascent and you have to drive in first or second gears giving way to oncoming traffic as it is a one way road. It’s usually impassable from September to June (weather permitting) and remains accessible throught summers. Prone to massive landslides. 4x4 vehicles required.
It’s one of the most beautiful lakes of the country. There are many excellent photo opportunities. Color of the lake changes dramatically with sunlight turning greenish blue from dark green. Its water is warm enough to even swim in summers. In winters this lake remains frozen from December to March. Nanga Parbat and the surrounding peaks reflect off the flat blue-green water.
Pic: Aamir Ali