Be it winters or summers, Naran is an all-year-round vacation destination known for its scenic views, trekking spots, riverside restaurants, and proximity to some of the most beautiful sights you can lay your eyes on!  

The location has so much to explore, and you would see many people carrying their backpacks on the shoulders with leather gloves Pakistan on and going on hikes.

So whether you’re a nature-lover, photographer, trekker, or just a tourist looking for some R&R (Rest and Recuperation), here are five places that’ll make your journey to Naran unforgettable!

 Dudipatsar Lake

At an altitude of 3800 meters above sea level, Dudipatsar lake offers views of snow-clad mountain peaks and beautiful flower beds alongside the greenish-blue hue of the lake itself. 

While it is considered one of the most beautiful sights in the Kaghan Valley, the real challenge lies in getting there as it is a four-hour hike from Naran. The trek starts from Besal, and you get a view of vast alpine meadows to reach the lake. 

However, make sure to carry your travel accessories and be comfortable in your cargo pants to go on such a journey easily.

Lalazar

 The next destination on your bucket list should be Lalazar. About 20km from Naran, right above the banks of the Kunhar River, Lalazar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the valley with its meadows and pine thickets. 

Owing to its altitude (10,246 ft above sea level, to be precise), this lush green plateau offers picturesque views, hiking tracks, and camping points for anyone looking to be with nature. 

You can enjoy yum snacks there, which you can carry in your backpack. And, of course, while you are at it, don't forget to wear your fleece caps and jackets, it's freezing there in winter.

Babusar Top

One of the highest - and dangerous - points in the Valley, Babusar Top is revered by tourists and adventure enthusiasts alike. Although difficult to access during the winter season, the Babusar Pass offers mesmerizing and scenic views of Kaghan Valley on one side and Chilas highlands on the other during the summers. The jeep route is filled with traditional dhabas along the way for anyone looking to have a chai break. The pass connects the KPK with the Gilgit-Baltistan region and is the last point of the Valley.

Siri Paye Meadows

Lush green plains covered in clouds, what more can you ask for? Located in the Shogran valley of the Naran Kaghan region, a thrilling jeep ride to Siri Paye Meadows offers breathtaking views of dense alpine woods. It’s a popular camping destination owing to its proximity to the Makra Peak and Malika Parbat, serene areas to horseback or hike around it, and some of the clearest views of the Milky Way one can get! 

Just imagine the time you can spend here with your friends and family. Many groups of friends come to this place, run all around, and take in the beauty of this heavenly place. You must be thinking, how do we recognize them? Well! From their backpacks, simple! 

Lake Saif - ul - Malook 

Last but not the least, no visit to Naran is complete without heading to the mesmerizing Lake Saif-ul-Malook. At less than an hour’s jeep ride from Naran, the lake offers one of the best views of the iconic Malika Parbat, boat rides, horse riding, and camping points under the blue sky in summers. In winters, this place looks majestic via white snow falling all around the mountains. The lake often gets frozen at this time of the year. 

One setback is that the roads leading to it also get difficult to drive on as the temperature drops, so the lake is mostly flocked with visitors from May-September. 

There are also many legends associated with this place. You would be hearing people and even locals talking about the moon fairies that dawn at midnight. 

If you want to see them as well, do carry binoculars in your backpack, you might get lucky, who knows?

Conclusion

Winters is here, so what are you waiting for? Pack your backpacks, carry your cargo pants, fleece caps, and other travel accessories, and make the most out of your trip to Naran with these must-visit destinations during the upcoming travel season.