Lakes of Pakistan – Top Gems by Province
Published: 07/04/2025
Pakistan is a land overflowing with natural wonders, and its lakes are some of the most breathtaking spots you’ll find. With over 100+ lakes scattered across the country, Pakistan offers a watery paradise for all.
In this article, we’re focusing on some famous lakes of Pakistan perfect for travel and tourism, from the icy heights of Kashmir to the warm plains of Sindh. These lakes are a treat for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace.
Ever wondered how many lakes there are in Pakistan? While the total exceeds 100, we’ll explore some worth visiting, covering the most beautiful, the most famous, and even the highest lakes across every province.
Starting with Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), we’ll journey through each region, spotlighting gems like the queen of lakes and the largest lake in the country.
Let’s explore this watery world!
Why Visit Pakistan’s Lakes?
Pakistan’s lakes are full of surprises, from icy glacial wonders in the mountains to calm, artificial lakes in the plains. Each one tells a story.
You could trek to Rush Lake, one of the highest in the world, or boat on Keenjhar Lake, wrapped in a Sufi love tale. Saif-ul-Malook shines like a turquoise gem, while Manchar, the largest lake in the country, hosts floating villages.
From famous picks like Attabad and Ratti Gali to hidden spots like Kund Malir Lagoon, every lake promises a unique adventure. Whether you’re into birdwatching, camping, or just chilling with mountain views, Pakistan’s lakes are calling.
1. Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) – Lakes That Feel Like Heaven
AJK is a lake lover’s paradise. The lakes here are surrounded by green meadows, snow-covered mountains, and silence that calms the soul.
Ratti Gali Lake – رتی گلی جھیل
Where: Neelum Valley
Height: 12,130 ft
Why Visit: Ratti Gali is an alpine lake that glows in a magical turquoise shade. A bumpy jeep ride followed by a short hike takes you to this peaceful wonder.
Fun Fact: It’s one of the most Instagrammed lakes in AJK!
Shounter Lake – شونٹر جھیل
Where: Shounter Valley
Height: 10,200 ft
Why Visit: Shounter Lake is fed by glacial melt. This serene lake offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. It’s a summer gem reachable by jeep from Kel.
Fun Fact: It lies near the Shounter Pass, linking AJK to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Chitta Katha Lake – چتہ کتھا جھیل
Where: Shounter Valley
Height: 13,500 ft
Why Visit: Chitta Katha Lake is a stunning hidden gem surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. The trek is tough but worth the views.
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Banjosa Lake – بنجوسہ جھیل
Where: Near Rawalakot
Why Visit: Banjosa Lake is a man-made lake surrounded by pine forests. It’s a calm spot for boating, picnics, and peaceful walks.
2. Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) – Home of the Highest Lakes
Welcome to the roof of Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, where the lakes sit among the clouds.
Attabad Lake – عطا آباد جھیل
Where: Hunza Valley
Why Visit: The Attabad Lake formed after a 2010 landslide. Now it’s a hotspot for boating, jet-skiing, and luxury stays.
Fun Fact: It’s now one of the top honeymoon spots in the north!
Sheosar Lake – شیوسر جھیل
Where: Deosai National Park
Height: 4,142 meters
Why Visit: Wildflowers, endless grasslands, and crystal water make this one a fairy tale location.
Rush Lake – رش جھیل
Where: Nagar Valley
Height: 15,400 ft (one of the highest in the world!)
Why Visit: Hardcore trekkers love this hidden alpine lake.
Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura) – شنگریلا جھیل
Where: Near Skardu
Why Visit: Romantic vibes, cherry trees, and the iconic Shangrila Resort. Upper Kachura is nearby, quieter, and great for photographers.
3. Sindh – Warm Waters & Big Wonders
Sindh’s lakes are hot in summer but magical in winter. Think peaceful water, rich birdlife, and lots of cultural history.
Keenjhar Lake (Kalri Lake) – کینجھر جھیل
Where: Thatta
Why Visit: Kalari or Keenjhar Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. Perfect for boating and Sufi legends. Karachi folks, this is your weekend escape!
Manchar Lake – منچھر جھیل
Where: Dadu District
Why Visit: The Manchar Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in Pakistan. Its floating villages are a sight to see.
Haleji Lake – ہالیجی جھیل
Where: Thatta
Why Visit: Birdwatcher’s heaven, ducks, crocodiles, pelicans, and even Siberian birds drop by in winter.
Hadero Lake – ہندورو جھیل
Where: Thatta, 85 km from Karachi
Why Visit: A declared wildlife sanctuary, it’s calm, shallow, and great for nature lovers.
Chotiari Reservoir – چوٹیاری جھیل
Where: Sanghar District
Why Visit: A man-made reservoir that blends lake views with marshy wildlife zones.
4. Punjab – Easy Escapes for City Folks
Punjab may be known for fields and forts, but its lakes are perfect for day trips and nature breaks.
Uchhali Lake (KhabeKi Lake) – اچھالی جھیل
Where: Soon Valley
Why Visit: Uchhali Lake or Khabeki Lake is a saltwater lake that attracts flamingos and rare birds. Winter visits are best.
Kallar Kahar Lake – کلر کہار جھیل
Where: Chakwal
Why Visit: Just off the motorway, it’s a chill spot for paddle boating and feeding peacocks.
Namal Lake – نمل جھیل
Where: Near Mianwali
Why Visit: Hills and an island in the middle, yes please! Ideal for boating and short hikes.
5. Balochistan – Rugged, Raw & Rare
These lakes are remote, quiet, and full of surprises. Great for off-roaders and explorers.
Hanna Lake – ہنہ جھیل
Where: Near Quetta
Why Visit: This artificial lake is surrounded by golden mountains and is great for family picnics.
Kund Malir Lagoon – کُنڈ ملیر جھیل
Where: Hingol National Park
Why Visit: A coastal beauty with blue waters, golden sands, and desert cliffs.
6. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) – Lakes of Legends
If you love fairy tales and mountain hikes, KP’s lakes are calling your name.
Saiful Malook Lake – جھیل سیف الملوک
Where: Kaghan Valley
Height: 10,578 ft
Why Visit: Saiful Muluk Lake is known as the queen of lakes in Pakistan. Fairy tales, snowy peaks, and surreal views.
Mahodand Lake – مہوڈنڈ جھیل
Where: Swat Valley, Kalam
Why Visit: A dream for campers, fishers, and couples. It’s surrounded by thick forest and icy peaks.
Ansoo Lake – آنسو جھیل
Where: Near Saif-ul-Malook Lake
Why Visit: A teardrop-shaped lake reached only by a challenging trek. Not for the faint-hearted, but 100% worth it.
- Summer (May–September): Best for AJK, GB, and KP.
- Winter (November–February): Ideal for Sindh and Punjab.
- Spring (March–April): AJK and Punjab shine.
Why Visit Pakistan’s Lakes?
Which is the most beautiful lake in Pakistan? Tough call, Saiful Muluk and Attabad often top the list! With over 100+ lakes in Pakistan, from alpine lakes in Pakistan to flatland wonders, there’s something for everyone.
As of April 06, 2025, travel is easier with better roads and more tourist spots. These Pakistani lakes are perfect for photos, treks, or just chilling by the water.
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Final Thoughts
So, guys, in this article, we’ve covered the lakes of Pakistan in detail, from the stunning heights of Rush Lake to the peaceful shores of Keenjhar Lake.
Personally, I recommend visiting Saiful Muluk Lake in Kaghan Valley; its turquoise water and fairy-tale vibes make it one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan that you’ll never forget.
Ready to explore these wonders? Grab your camera, pick a lake from this list of stunning lakes in Pakistan, and start your adventure today!
FAQs About Lakes In Pakistan
Pakistan is home to over 100 lakes, from glacial pools in the mountains to serene waters in the plains. Many are popular for travel and tourism, offering stunning views and adventure.
Many consider Saiful Muluk in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to be the most beautiful lake in Pakistan, with its turquoise waters and fairy-tale charm surrounded by snowy peaks. Beauty varies by preference, though!
Manchar Lake in Sindh is the largest lake in Pakistan, spanning hundreds of square kilometers. It’s a natural freshwater body, though its size fluctuates with seasons.
Top picks include Saiful Malook (KP), Attabad Lake (GB), Ratti Gali (AJK), Keenjhar Lake (Sindh), and Hanna Lake (Balochistan). These famous Pakistani lakes are loved for their beauty and fun.
Punjab has about 6 famous lakes in Pakistan, with locations like Uchhali, Kallar Kahar, and Namal. They’re great for quick trips from cities like Islamabad. More small ones exist, too!
Saif-ul-Malook is often called the queen of lakes in Pakistan for its stunning beauty and fairy-tale story. It’s in Kaghan Valley, KP, at 10,578 ft. Locals and travelers adore it!
The highest lakes are in Gilgit-Baltistan: Rush Lake (15,400 ft) is the highest, followed by Karambar Lake (4,272 meters). They’re remote and breathtaking for trekkers.
Yes, lakes like Banjosa (AJK), Haleji (Sindh), and Hanna (Balochistan) are man-made artificial lakes of Pakistan. They’re built for water or beauty and are super scenic. Perfect for easy visits!
No city officially holds this title, but Rawalakot in Azad Jammu and Kashmir feels like one, with lakes like Banjosa and Baghsar nearby, making it a paradise for lake lovers.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
