3-Day Naran Kaghan Valley Tour from Islamabad

Departure 7:00am from Islamabad via Hazara Motorway M-15 to Mansehra, then the Kaghan Valley road through Balakot. The valley begins at Balakot — a town rebuilt after the 2005 earthquake — and immediately delivers spectacular scenery.

Drive through Kawai, Paras, Jalkhand, and Shogran turnoff as the valley narrows and the Kunhar River runs beside the road in magnificent cascades. Arrive Naran (~5–6 hours from Islamabad) — the main town and base for upper Kaghan. Check in. Evening walk by the Kunhar River.

• Drive: ~240 km, 5–6 hours
• Highlights: Kunhar River gorges, Balakot, Kaghan Valley road

Early start 6:30am. Drive from Naran to Saiful Muluk Lake — 9km by local jeep (mandatory — cars cannot access). This legendary alpine lake at 3,224m is one of Pakistan's most famous and beautiful — surrounded by glaciers, with Malika Parbat (5,290m) rising dramatically above.

Return to Naran and continue north to Babusar Top (4,173m) — the highest paved point in Pakistan accessible by 2WD vehicles, though 4x4 recommended. In summer, the plateau below Babusar is carpeted in wildflowers. Views of Nanga Parbat on clear days.

On the way back, stop at Lulusar Lake (3,410m) — a serene, large alpine lake that few visitors reach. Return to Naran by evening.

• Highlights: Saiful Muluk Lake, Babusar Pass 4,173m, Lulusar Lake
• Note: Babusar open July–September only

Morning visit to Lalazar Plateau — 10km from Naran via Batakundi, a breathtaking meadow at 3,200m known as the "Switzerland of Pakistan" for its rolling green hills, dense pine forests, and snow-capped backdrop. The plateau is genuinely one of the most beautiful landscapes in Pakistan.

Return to Naran for lunch. Begin the return drive to Islamabad via the Kaghan Valley road. Stop at Shogran on the way if time permits — a hill station above the valley with sweeping Himalayan views. Arrive Islamabad by 8:00–9:00pm.

• Highlights: Lalazar Plateau, Shogran viewpoint, Kaghan Valley return
• Drive: ~240 km, 5–6 hours return