Glacier-blue water, towering Karakoram peaks and the Karakoram Highway running beside it, one of the most photographed lakes in Pakistan.
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Sitting high in the mountains above Neelum Valley, Ratti Gali Lake is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks and alpine meadows. Its water is fed by melting glaciers, which gives it a deep, clear blue color, and chunks of ice can often be seen floating on the surface well into summer.
The lake is not reached by road. First comes a bumpy jeep ride up a mountain track to the base camp, then a trek through meadows and rocky slopes. The effort is part of the charm when the lake finally appears, it feels like a reward for the climb.
Ratti Gali is popular with trekkers, photographers and adventure lovers, and many travelers describe it as the highlight of their Azad Kashmir trip.
8 Days / 7 Nights
8 Days / 7 Nights
The lake is long and narrow, stretching for roughly 21 km along the valley. Hotels, restaurants and small viewpoints have grown along its shores, and boats run from the main jetty area. The Karakoram Highway now passes through tunnels built to bypass the flooded section. Early morning brings still water and soft light, while midday gives the strongest turquoise colour. Evenings can be cool, with the peaks glowing at sunset.
Drive along the Karakoram Highway (about 760 km from Islamabad) or fly to Gilgit if flights are operating. Most groups break the road journey with a night in Chilas or Besham.
Continue to Karimabad, the main town of Hunza, which makes a convenient base.
Drive about 14 km east on the Karakoram Highway, roughly 30 minutes, to reach the lake.
Park near the shore, walk to the viewpoints and take a boat or jet ski ride on the water.
April to May
Fresh greenery, cherry and apricot blossom in the valley, mild days. |
June to August
Warm days and the main tourist season. The lake is at its brightest. |
September to October
Golden leaves, clear skies and fewer crowds. One of the best times. |
November to March
Very cold. Parts of the lake can freeze, and boating may stop. |
Travel smart
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Wear life jackets on all boat and jet ski rides, and supervise children near the water.
Confirm boat and jet ski fares and the length of the ride before you start.
Wind off the water can feel cold, even in summer.
Sun at altitude is strong, so carry a hat and sunscreen.
ATMs are limited in upper Hunza, so withdraw in Gilgit or Karimabad.
Morning light is best for photos and the lake is calmer.
Take rubbish with you and avoid plastic.
Hunza is a conservative region, so dress modestly and ask before photographing people.
Especially after rain, because landslides can affect the Karakoram Highway.
Ancient forts, terraced orchards and views of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar, the best base for exploring Hunza.
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Where the Karakoram Highway ends and the adventure begins, the jeep stop for one of Pakistan's most famous mountain trails.
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A restored 17th-century Balti palace in Shigar Valley, now a museum and heritage hotel at the gateway to K2.
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Red-roofed cottages, a calm lake and snow peaks, Skardu's most famous lakeside resort.
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A large, deep-blue lake just outside Skardu, the water source of the valley and the gateway to the Deosai Plains.
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Rolling sand dunes, the Indus River and snow-capped Karakoram peaks, all in one frame, a short drive from Skardu city.
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Quiet forest paths, alpine meadows and glimpses of the Raikot face, the best way to experience Fairy Meadows on foot.
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A row of sharp, snow-streaked peaks above the Hunza River and Passu Glacier, one of the most iconic mountain views in Pakistan.
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A day-long trek from Fairy Meadows through forest, meadow and glacier moraine to the foot of the world's ninth-highest peak.
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Mist, green meadows and clear mountain water, one of Baltistan's most dramatic waterfalls, a scenic drive from Skardu.
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Golden dunes at over 2,200 metres, with snowy peaks behind them, one of the highest deserts on Earth, just outside Skardu.
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A swaying plank-and-rope crossing over the Hunza River, with the Passu Cones rising behind it.
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Pine forest, glacier views and the north face of the world's ninth-highest mountain, a peaceful high camp above Fairy Meadows.
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A high mountain pass where Kaghan meets Gilgit-Baltistan, with sweeping views, cool winds and the road to Chilas, Gilgit and Hunza.
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Still water, migrating birds and Karakoram views, a peaceful short detour from the Karakoram Highway near Gulmit.
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A restored mountain fort above Karimabad, with royal rooms, old stonework and sweeping views of Rakaposhi and the Hunza Valley.
View DetailsIt was formed in January 2010, when a landslide at Attabad village blocked the Hunza River. Water built up behind the blockage for five months.
Let us plan your Hunza trip while you enjoy the water and the mountains.
