Attabad Lake
Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Lake
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
2 to 4 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Attabad Lake formed in January 2010 after a huge landslide blocked the Hunza River. The landslide destroyed a village and a part of the Karakoram Highway. Over time, the lake filled up, creating a large body of bright blue water. It is now a major attraction for people visiting Hunza. The lake is long and narrow, stretching for many kilometers through the valley.
What To Do
- Take a boat ride on the lake. You can rent speed boats or slower passenger boats.
- Try jet skiing for some fast fun on the water.
- Go fishing in the lake. You might need to get permission first.
- Walk along the edges of the lake at some points.
- Take photos of the clear blue water and the mountains around it.
What To Buy
- Apricot Products: Fresh or dried apricots, apricot oil. Many local shops sell these. Visit Shisper Bazaar in Karimabad: Get Directions
- Local Handicrafts: Hand-woven items, traditional caps, and wooden crafts. Available at Hunza Bazaar Karimabad: Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Almonds, walnuts, and other local nuts. Look for shops near Ganesh Bazaar: Get Directions
- Gemstones: Locally mined stones like peridot and ruby. Find these at gemstone shops in Karimabad. Check Karimabad Main Street shops: Get Directions
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm shawls made from goat wool. Available in souvenir shops in Hunza Valley: Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Please do not litter in or around the lake. Keep the area clean.
- Respect local culture and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages.
- Photography is allowed, but always ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
- Swimming in the lake is generally not recommended due to cold temperatures and strong currents.
- Follow any instructions from local authorities or boat operators for your safety.
Health & Safety
- The altitude can be high for some people. Take it easy on your first day to adjust.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- The sun can be strong, even on cloudy days. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- If you are going on a boat, wear a life jacket.
- Watch your step, especially on uneven paths and near the water's edge.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: The weather is cool and pleasant from April to May. Flowers start to bloom, making the mountains look green. It's a good time for outdoor activities without too much heat.
Summer: June to August has warm and sunny days. The lake water is a striking blue. This is the busiest time for visitors who enjoy water sports and exploring the area.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: July and August can bring some rain, but it's generally lighter in this northern area compared to other parts of Pakistan. Roads can be affected by landslides during heavy rain, so check weather forecasts.
Autumn: September to November brings cooler weather. The trees turn golden and red, creating amazing views. It's a great time for photography and enjoying the calm environment beforeWinter: .
Winter: December to March is very cold, and the lake might freeze partly. Snow covers the mountains, making it a quiet and beautiful scene. Many roads can be closed due to heavy snow. Fewer activities are available.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Gilgit Airport (GIL). It is about 80 km from Attabad Lake. You can take a local taxi or jeep from Gilgit to reach the lake.
- By Road: Attabad Lake is on the Karakoram Highway (KKH). You can drive from Islamabad or Gilgit. It is about a 2-hour drive north from Gilgit city.
- By Train: There are no railway lines that go to Gilgit-Baltistan. The nearest major active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. From there, you would need to travel by road for a long journey.
- By Public Transport: Shared vans and jeeps run daily from Gilgit city to Hunza Valley. You can ask to be dropped off at Attabad Lake, which is between Gulmit and Karimabad.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Gulmit Continental Hotel & Restaurant: Gulmit, Hunza. Contact: +92 346 9513333. Get Directions
- Lake View Restaurant: Attabad Lake, Hunza. Contact: +92 345 5961099. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Hard Rock Hunza Resort & Villas: Attabad Lake, Hunza. Contact: +92 345 5000030. Website: hardrockhotelhunza.com. Get Directions
- Attabad Lake Hotel: Attabad Lake, Hunza. Contact: +92 346 5328892. Website: N/A. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Civil Hospital Gulmit. Phone: +92 5816 920002. Get Directions
- Ambulances: Rescue 1122, Pakistan. Phone: 1122.
- Police Station: Police Station Gulmit. Phone: +92 5816 920005. Get Directions
