Trip from Lahore to Saif-ul-Malook Lake

Trip from Lahore to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook, one of Pakistan’s most enchanting alpine lakes, is a thrilling adventure that promises stunning landscapes and a taste of the sublime beauty of the northern regions. Located near the town of Naran in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Jheel Saif-ul-Malook is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque setting, and captivating legends. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various routes from Lahore to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook, calculate the distances, and offer practical tips to ensure your trip is as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.

Overview of Jheel Saif-ul-Malook

Before diving into the routes, let’s first appreciate the destination. Jheel Saif-ul-Malook is nestled at an altitude of about 3,224 meters (10,578 feet) above sea level. It’s surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is accessible primarily during the summer months when the weather permits. The lake is named after a prince in a local legend and is known for its stunning emerald-green waters and scenic backdrop.

Route Options from Lahore to Lake Saif-ul-Malook

1. Via M2 Motorway and N-35 (Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad Road)

This is the most direct and commonly used route to reach Jheel Saif-ul-Malook from Lahore. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

• Lahore to Islamabad: Start your journey by taking the M2 Motorway from Lahore to Islamabad. The distance is approximately 270 kilometers and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
• Islamabad to Mansehra: From Islamabad, continue towards Mansehra using the M1 Motorway and then the N-35. This stretch covers about 120 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours.
• Mansehra to Naran: From Mansehra, take the N-35, also known as the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad Road, to Naran. This distance is about 120 kilometers and can take around 4 to 5 hours due to the winding mountainous roads.
• Naran to Saif-ul-Malook: Once in Naran, you will need to hire a 4×4 vehicle or use a local jeep service to reach Jheel Saif-ul-Malook, which is about 19 kilometers from Naran. This last leg of the journey takes approximately 1 to 2 hours depending on road conditions.

Total Distance: Approximately 529 kilometers
Estimated Travel Time: 10 to 13 hours

2. Via Hazara Motorway (M-15) and N-35

For a slightly different experience, you can opt for the Hazara Motorway route:

• Lahore to Islamabad: Travel via the M2 Motorway, covering a distance of around 270 kilometers.
• Islamabad to Abbottabad: Take the Hazara Motorway (M-15) towards Abbottabad, which is approximately 100 kilometers and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Abbottabad to Mansehra: From Abbottabad, proceed to Mansehra, a distance of around 40 kilometers and taking roughly 1 hour.
• Mansehra to Naran: Travel from Mansehra to Naran via N-35, covering 120 kilometers in approximately 4 to 5 hours.
• Naran to Saif-ul-Malook: Finally, head from Naran to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook, which is 19 kilometers away and requires 1 to 2 hours.

Total Distance: Approximately 529 kilometers
Estimated Travel Time: 10 to 13 hours

3. Via N-35 and KKH (Karakoram Highway)

This route is less conventional but offers a unique experience:

• Lahore to Islamabad: Travel via the M2 Motorway, covering approximately 270 kilometers.
• Islamabad to Mansehra: Proceed towards Mansehra on the N-35, which is about 120 kilometers and takes around 2 hours.
• Mansehra to Jalkhad: From Mansehra, head towards Jalkhad, covering a distance of 80 kilometers in roughly 2 hours.
• Jalkhad to Naran: Travel from Jalkhad to Naran, a distance of about 40 kilometers taking around 1 hour.
• Naran to Saif-ul-Malook: The final stretch from Naran to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook is 19 kilometers, taking about 1 to 2 hours.

Total Distance: Approximately 529 kilometers
Estimated Travel Time: 11 to 13 hours

Key Travel Tips

1. Vehicle Readiness: Ensure your vehicle is in top condition for this long journey, especially given the mountainous terrain. A 4×4 is recommended for the final leg from Naran to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook.
2. Weather Check: The weather in the Naran-Kaghan Valley can be unpredictable. Check forecasts before you travel and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
3. Road Conditions: Roads in mountainous areas may be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously and be aware of potential delays due to road conditions.
4. Local Transportation: To reach Jheel Saif-ul-Malook, you will need to use local jeep services or hire a 4×4 vehicle. It’s advisable to arrange this in advance or upon arrival in Naran.
5. Accommodation: Book your accommodations in Naran ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons. There are various hotels and guesthouses available to suit different budgets.
6. Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits if required, especially for accessing high-altitude areas.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lahore to Jheel Saif-ul-Malook is a journey of discovery through some of Pakistan’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you choose the direct route via the M2 Motorway and N-35, the scenic Hazara Motorway route, or the adventurous KKH path, each offers its own set of experiences and views. By planning ahead and preparing for the unique challenges of the journey, you can ensure a memorable and smooth adventure to one of the country’s most beautiful alpine lakes.