Pakistan's Little Kashmir, Kaghan Valley

This resplendent forested valley is a beautiful prelude to Pakistan's northernmost massif. The alpine lakes nestled amidst 4000 to 5000 meter high show-capped mountains make for picture- book scenery, which allows mental acclimatisation to the towering spires of the Karakorams. The Kaghan Valley is easily accessible from the capital, Islamabad, and lies on the old route from the plains of Punjab to Gilgit-Hunza and Baltistan. The plethora of sights in this 160 kilometre-long valley is unbelievable: the Kunhar River, swollen by glacier melt, meanders its way through the valley, and is the perfect river for trout fishers; the picturesque villages of Shogran -- from where there are clear views of the highest peak in Kaghan, Malika Parbat (5290m) and Naran, straight out of Hans Christian Anderson make good stating points for many excursions into side valleys; Lake Saif-ul-Mulk (3212m), named because Prince Saif-ul-Mulk-supposedly drowned here together with his beloved fairy princess by her jealous demon lover, reflects the surrounding peaks and alpine meadows in its crystal clear waters. The emerald Lake Lalusar, lying higher up the valley and the source of the Kunhar, makes a serene camping spot on the way to the northern exit of the valley. Gittidas Meadow (3634m), filled with alpine flowers, is the summer pasture for the herdsman of Kaghan; and the northern valley exit, Babusar Pass (4175m) -- whose crest affords commanding views of the valley -- squeezes out a jeep track that guarantees one the ride of one's life. It is little wonder that local folklore abounds with fairies, nymphs and abode more suitable for leprechauns.

Driving the Leprechaun Trail

Level A

Itinerary

Hiking the Leprechaun Trail

Level B

Itinerary


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Revised: 22 March, 1996