A hairraising drive to Lake Naltar

Lake Naltar is a high mountain emerald green lake, at an elevation of 3.228m (10,590ft) above the sea level, located in the Gilgit District of Gilgit–Baltistan territory of Pakistan.

Located in the heart of Naltar Valley, the road to the lake is nestled among snow-topped peaks and towering forests. It’s totally unpaved and subject to flooding. It’s a long, treacherous and hairraising drive. The route is dangerous. Not recommended to newbies.

4x4 vehicle is required. The road runs parallel to the Naltar river. The river and the road, both are equally frightening. Starting from Nomal, the road to the lake is 29.4 km (18.3 miles) long. It’s called Naltar Valley Road. Be careful: this road is not for the sissies. One mistake can have consequences.

Always check the weather forecast before you start your journey. Surrounded by dense pine forests, in winter it is almost impossible to reach the lake through any vehicle due the snow (10 to 15 feet high) on the road. Naltar Valley is referred to as the ‘magic carpet’ of Pakistan.
Pic:&video Abdulmateen Arshad