Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park | Top Sight to visit in Mansehra
Mansehra | Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park
A Paradise in Kaghan Valley Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park is a breathtaking protected area located in the Kaghan Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
This scenic haven is home to the magnificent Lulusar Lake, the largest natural lake in the region, and the enchanting Dudipatsar Lake, famed for its surreal blue waters.
The park is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, featuring lush meadows, serene alpine landscapes, and a rich array of flora and fauna. It offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and trekkers, providing opportunities to explore the untouched beauty of Pakistan's northern wilderness.
Whether it's the tranquil lakes, diverse wildlife, or the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking serenity and adventure in the lap of nature.
Lulusar Lake
Kaghan Valley, Mansehra District, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa • Show on map
Lulusar Lake: A Gem in Naran Valley
Lulusar Lake, surrounded by towering mountain peaks, is a natural marvel in the Naran Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Renowned for its crystal-clear, mirror-like surface, the lake beautifully reflects the majestic mountains around it. Its location is easily accessible, making it one of the most visited lakes in the region. Unlike other tourist spots, Lulusar remains unspoiled, with no permanent stalls or eateries disrupting its serene beauty. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk down from the road to the lake, where nature remains preserved in its pristine form.
Lake Saif-ul-Malook
Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan • Show on map
Lake Saif-ul-Malook, also known as the "Lake of Fairies," is a stunning mountainous lake located at the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, near the town of Naran in Saiful Muluk National Park, Pakistan.
Situated approximately 8 km from Naran, this natural wonder is often described as heaven on earth. The journey to the lake, while beautiful, involves navigating one of the most challenging roads in the region. Lake Saif-ul-Malook enchants visitors with its mesmerizing natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and rich folklore.
A mystical tale associated with the lake suggests that fairies descend to the lake on the 14th night of the lunar calendar, adding to its magical allure. The lake’s turquoise waters owe their color to the presence of blue-green algae and its unique eco-diversity.
During the summer months, boating becomes a popular activity, drawing thousands of tourists from across the country. The breathtaking views and peaceful ambiance leave every visitor spellbound, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Ansoo Lake, Mansehra
Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan • Show on map
Ansoo Lake, translating to "Tear Drop Lake," is a mesmerizing, tear-shaped lake located in the Kaghan Valley, within the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
It is renowned for its unique shape resembling a teardrop, with a wider rim on one side and a thinner end on the other, making it a breathtaking natural wonder. The lake is considered one of the highest-altitude lakes in the Himalayas, adding to its allure and challenge for trekkers.
Reaching Ansoo Lake involves an 8-9 hour trek from Lake Saif-ul-Malook, a journey characterized by rugged trails and awe-inspiring landscapes. This challenging trek is often reserved for the most determined adventurers. Despite the effort, the lake sometimes remains shrouded in fog, obscuring its view and adding to its mystique.
A popular saying surrounds Ansoo Lake: only the lucky ones get to see it, as clear visibility is a rare blessing. This element of unpredictability, combined with its natural beauty, has made it a favorite destination for tourists from around the world.
Lalazar, Mansehra
WQ94+9J9, Batakundi, Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan • Show on map
Lalazar, famously referred to as the "Valley of Blooming Flowers", is a captivating tourist destination nestled at an elevation of 3,123 meters (10,246 feet) above sea level. It is located in the upper Kaghan Valley, part of the Mansehra District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan.
Approximately 21 km from Naran, Lalazar is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, lush greenery, and vibrant meadows. The region’s verdant vegetation creates a mesmerizing sea of green that enchants visitors with its serene beauty.
The route to Lalazar is an adventure in itself. The Lalazar Road, stretching 4.2 km, is known as one of the most challenging and deadliest roads, demanding exceptional driving skills and courage. It is not recommended for those with vertigo or a fear of landslides. The journey begins southwest of Batakundi, where a turn to the right before the village leads to this picturesque spot.
This thrilling drive is rewarded with incredible landscapes, scenic pine forests, and charming weather, making Lalazar a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Babusar Pass, also known as Babusar Top, is a mountain pass located in Pakistan, at the northern end of the 150 km long Kaghan Valley. It connects the valley to Chilas on the Karakoram Highway (KKH) via Thak Nala.
Situated at an elevation of 4,173 meters (13,691 feet) above sea level, Babusar Pass offers a breathtaking experience with its panoramic views and unique natural beauty. At the top of the pass, there is a bridge-like stone minaret, symbolizing the highest point in the region.
From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy:
To the right, the snow-covered peaks of Kashmir.
To the northeast, a captivating view of the majestic Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth-highest mountain.
The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, with floating clouds that surround you as you reach the top, offering an ethereal experience. Babusar Pass is one of Pakistan's most dangerous routes, challenging both drivers and adventurers with its steep paths and unpredictable conditions. However, the rewards are unparalleled—cool breezes, floating clouds, and picturesque views of Kaghan Valley make the journey truly unforgettable.
Babusar Top serves as a natural telescope, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the marvelous landscapes of northern Pakistan.
Kunhar River, also known as Nain Sukh, is a 166-kilometer (103-mile) long river flowing primarily through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Pakistan. It is one of the most captivating rivers in the region, known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil environment.
The river originates from the pristine Lulusar Lake and is fed by the glaciers of Malka Parbat, Makra Peak, and the waters of Saiful Muluk Lake. It traverses the entire Kaghan Valley, passing through notable areas like Jalkhand, Naran, Kaghan, Jared, Paras, and Balakot, before joining the Jhelum River.
Highlights of the Kunhar River:
Trout Fishing: The Kunhar River is renowned for its trout, considered some of the best in the Indian subcontinent. Fishing enthusiasts flock here to experience this unique offering.
Natural Beauty: The river is surrounded by lush greenery, towering peaks, and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Adventure Activities: The Kunhar River offers various activities like camping, rafting, and water sports, attracting thrill-seekers from all over the world.
With its serene ambiance and natural charm, the Kunhar River is not just a geographical feature but a symbol of the magnificence of northern Pakistan. A visit to the region is incomplete without witnessing the majestic flow of this enchanting river.
Makra Peak, also known as Spider Peak, is a stunning peak located in the Mansehra District, within the Hazara region of the Himalayas in northern Pakistan.
This magnificent mountain is named for its unique shape, which resembles a spider. Makra Peak's charm lies in its seasonal transformations:
Winter: The peak dazzles with a blanket of white crystal snow, creating a fairy-tale-like landscape.
Summer: The vibrant surroundings come alive with lush greenery and a spectrum of natural colors, making it equally captivating.
Key Features of Makra Peak:
Elevation: The peak is among the highest in the Himalayas within the region, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Weather: The weather remains cold year-round, with temperatures often dropping significantly, even during summer.
Hiking Challenges: Climbing Makra Peak is challenging due to its steep gradient and snow-covered slopes, making it a popular spot for experienced hikers and adventure enthusiasts.
Makra Peak is a natural wonder that invites tourists and hikers to experience its marvelous beauty and thrilling adventure. It is a true gem for those seeking to explore the Himalayan splendor in Pakistan.
Siri And Paye
JF9M+5F3, Siri paye Road, Kiwai, Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan • Show on map
Siri Paye Lake, located near Shogran in the Kaghan Valley, Pakistan, is a picturesque alpine lake situated at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level.
The lake is surrounded by prominent peaks, including Makra Peak, Malka Parbat, Moosa da Musalla, and the mountains of Kashmir. These provide breathtaking backdrops and a serene atmosphere.
The lush green meadows around the lake, particularly in July, create a magical setting as the rains enhance the vibrant landscape.
Accessibility:
The lake is accessible via a jeep track starting from Kiwai and passing through the scenic hill station of Shogran.
Distance: It is approximately 6 kilometers from Shogran, nestled between the verdant slopes of Shogran and the Makra peaks.
Unique Features:
Superb Views: The panoramic vistas of Kaghan Valley and surrounding peaks make Siri Paye Lake a favorite among nature lovers and photographers.
Seasonal Beauty: In July, the rains bring a fresh vibrancy, while in winter, the area transforms into a snow-covered wonderland.
Siri Paye Lake is a hidden gem in the Kaghan Valley, offering visitors a chance to experience unmatched natural beauty and tranquility.
Shogran , Mansehra
Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan • Show on map
Shogran, a charming hill station in the Kaghan Valley, northern Pakistan, is situated at an elevation of 2,362 meters (7,749 feet) above sea level. Renowned for its panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush green forests, it offers a tranquil escape from urban life.
Located on a plateau, Shogran has become a popular summer destination and, since 2005, has remained accessible even during the winter months, when the valley is blanketed in snow. The area features a variety of hotels and rest houses, making it a convenient base for exploring the Kaghan Valley. Its combination of forests, pleasant weather, and mountain vistas makes it an idyllic retreat. However, visitors should be prepared for unexpected thunderstorms and heavy rains, which can occasionally disrupt activities, and for entry restrictions during visits by senior officials staying in rest houses. Whether in the lush greenery of summer or the serene snow of winter, Shogran remains a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Manshi Top is a charming meadow located at the top of Sharan Forest with an average elevation of over 3000 meters. This scenic spot is accessible via a 2 to 3-hour hike from the Sharan Forest Camping Pods, making it an ideal destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Manshi Top is between May and October, when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty is at its peak. However, due to heavy snowfall in the winter months, Manshi Top is not accessible during the colder season. This hidden gem offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery, making it an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Mansehra
Mansehra, the capital of Mansehra District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is a significant city in the region, ranking as the 71st largest city in the country and the 7th largest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The city's name is derived from its founder, Sardar Maha Singh Mirpuri, a Sikh commander in the Khalsa Army under Maharaja Ranjit Singh's rule.
Known for its captivating natural beauty, Mansehra also hosts the Mansehra Shiva Temple, famous for the Shivarathri celebration held annually. Despite its picturesque surroundings, the city is situated in a geologically sensitive area, making it prone to natural disasters. The 2005 earthquake devastated the city, causing widespread destruction and a significant loss of life. In addition, Mansehra also suffered from the 2010 floods, which further exacerbated the city's vulnerability to such events.
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Culture and history
Mansehra is home to a diverse population, with people from various ethnic groups living in harmony. The primary languages spoken in the region are Pushto, Hindko, Gojri, and Kashmiri. Pushto and Hindko are widely spoken in most areas, while Urdu is understood throughout the district. Many locals speak Kohistani and Kashmiri, reflecting the migration patterns of past generations.
The residents of Mansehra are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. The population is relatively young, with a large portion under the age of 20. Education is highly valued in the region, though there remains a disparity in access, with more males receiving education than females. This gender gap in education continues to pose challenges to the district’s overall development.
The majority of Mansehra’s population follows a traditional joint family system, where elders hold significant influence over decision-making processes. Younger family members are expected to respect the authority of their elders. The locals lead simple lives, with their diet predominantly consisting of rice, wheat, and maize. Close-knit family relationships are vital, and neighbors are often treated as extended family members.
Despite these strong family values, challenges persist, particularly concerning women's education. Low literacy rates among women contribute to the district's backwardness, hindering economic progress. Agriculture is the dominant source of income for many residents, with most families involved in farming vegetables and fruits on their land. A smaller portion of the population works in government positions or commercial sectors. These industries play a vital role in the economic stability of the district, but efforts are still needed to address education and gender inequality issues.
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