Naltar Valley & Lakes
Naltar
A high mountain valley surrounded by pine forests and snowy peaks. Satrangi Lake changes colour with the light, from turquoise to blue-green. In winter, the valley becomes a ski resort.
Naltar Valley lies about 40 km northwest of Gilgit, at an altitude of roughly 2,900–3,200 metres. It is surrounded by pine forests, meadows and snow-capped peaks. Above the valley floor is Satrangi Lake (meaning 'Seven-Coloured Lake'), whose clear water shifts through emerald, turquoise and blue-green depending on the light. Further up are other lakes, including Bashkiri Lake. From Gilgit, a jeep takes about 2–3 hours. The last stretch is a rough dirt road that ordinary saloon cars cannot manage. In winter, Naltar has a ski field operated by the Pakistan Air Force. The high-altitude nights are cold, so bring warm clothing.
Opening hours
All day; upper mountain road may close in winter
Nearby sights
- Kargah Buddha
- Gilgit Bazaar
- Chinar Bagh
- Danyor Suspension Bridge
- Chinese Memorial Cemetery (Danyor)
- Bagrot Valley
- Junction of Three Mountains
- Nanga Parbat Viewpoint (Talechi)