A remote, tear-shaped high-altitude lake above Lake Saif-ul-Malook, reached by a challenging guided trek for experienced and well-prepared hikers.
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Ansoo Lake gets its name from the Urdu word for "tear," as seen from above, the lake is shaped like a teardrop. It sits high on the slopes above Lake Saif-ul-Malook, surrounded by bare rock, snowfields and glacier-fed streams. At this altitude the setting feels wild and quiet, far from the crowds below.
This is not an easy visit. There is no road, and no short walk from the jeep stop. The trek starts near Saif-ul-Malook and climbs steeply over rocky, uneven ground, with snow crossings and loose slopes in places. The reward is a rarely visited lake and views over the whole Kaghan region.
8 Days / 7 Nights
8 Days / 7 Nights
Ansoo Lake sits above 4,000 m in a bowl of bare rock and snowfields, fed by glacier meltwater, with its teardrop outline best seen from above. The surroundings are stark and exposed, with wide views reaching Malika Parbat and across the Kaghan region on a clear day.
Conditions change very quickly at this altitude, with sun, fog, rain and snow possible on the same day. Nights are below freezing even in summer.
Drive via Abbottabad, Mansehra and Balakot, then follow the Kunhar River upward to Naran.
Rest at a hotel and prepare for an early start the next morning.
Local 4x4 jeeps climb the rough track from Naran to the lake.
From Saif-ul-Malook, a steep trail climbs through rocky slopes and snow patches to the lake. The trek takes around 6 to 8 hours one way.
June to early July
Heavy snow on the trail; the lake may be mostly frozen.
Mid-July to early September
Best time. Trail mostly open, snow partly melted, lake accessible.
Late September to October
Very cold, with early snow and unpredictable weather.
November to May
Deep snow. The trail is generally inaccessible.
Travel smart
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Suitable only for fit, experienced trekkers who are comfortable walking for many hours at high altitude on steep, rocky ground. Not recommended for children, older travelers, beginners, or anyone with heart, breathing or joint problems.
The route can be hard to follow, and weather and snow conditions change quickly.
Begin the trek at first light so you have enough daylight.
Spend a day in Naran or at Saif-ul-Malook before attempting the climb.
Loose rock, snow and wet slopes are slippery.
Carry a warm jacket, windproof and waterproof shell, hat, gloves and a sleeping bag rated for freezing nights.
Headache, nausea or dizziness means you should rest or descend. Do not push through it.
There are no shops or water sources you can rely on along the trail.
Delays can mean walking in low light.
Tell family your plan and expected return time before you go.
Avoid the trek after heavy rain or fresh snow.
Carry your rubbish back with you and keep the lake clean.
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Explore Ansoo Lake in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and get directions easily.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
It is difficult. The trail is steep and rocky, and the altitude makes it tiring. It is recommended only for fit, experienced trekkers.
Let us handle the jeeps, guides, stays and logistics while you enjoy the climb.
