Chitta Katha Lake, nestled in the Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is a true hidden gem that has only recently gained popularity among tourists and hikers alike. This high-altitude lake, located at an altitude of approximately 13,500 feet above sea level, is a sight to behold, with its crystal clear blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows.
Location of Chitta Katha Lake
Chitta Katha Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 13,500 feet above sea level and is known for its crystal-clear blue water. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows, making it a popular destination for tourists and hikers.
Chitta Katha is a regional name meaning “White Stream”. The source of Chita Katha Sar lake is the Chitta Katha stream which flows from Harri Parbat mountain. This mountain is a religious place for Hindu followers who associate it with Lord Shiva and the eternal shrine of their Lord “Kailash”. Chita Katha Lake is accessible by a rough but beautiful and scenic trek.
Elevation of Chitta Katha Lake
Chitta Katha Lake is an alpine lake in Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It is located at an elevation of 13,500 feet (4,100 m). This lake is sacred to Hindus as they consider this lake to be the abode of Shiva.
The lake is accessible from Kel by a 20 km (12 mi) jeep track and then a 5 km (3.1 mi) hike. Kel is the base camp of this lake.
The place can be thought of as the junction of Neelum, Naran, and Skardu. The level of the trek is moderate to difficult.
After reaching there, the mesmerizing beauty and supernatural charm mesmerize the tourists. The jeep track starts from Kel to Domail Bala. It is a 20-kilometer (12 mi) rough gravel road. The hiking trek begins along with a 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) long lush green patch.
The breathtaking beauty and supernatural magnetism of the lake invite visitors to come soon after. The jeep track starts at Kel and ends at Domail Bala. It is a 20-kilometer (12 mi) long rough gravel road. The route starts with a 5 km (3.1 mi) wide open lush green area followed by a 5 km (3.1 mi) trek through the trees and over the snowy mountains.
Tourist Attractions Near Chitta Katha Lake
Following is the main tourist attraction of Chitta Katha Lake which attracts tourists from all over the world.
- Dhani Waterfall
- Kuttan Jagran Resort
- Keran
- Cabbage
- Domail
- Counter
- Spoon Lake
Route from Islamabad to Chitta Katha Lake
To reach Chitta Katha Lake, one has to hike for approximately 5-6 hours from the village of Kel, which is located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir. The trek to the lake is considered moderately difficult, but the stunning views along the way make it worth the effort.
Hikers will encounter dense forests, raging rivers, and rocky terrain as they make their way towards the lake. But as they ascend, the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape will more than makeup for the exertion.
- Islamabad – Muzaffarabad – Keran – Upper Domail – Kel – Upper Domail
- Upper Domail’s – Dak-1/Dak-2 – Chitta Katha Lake
How to reach Chitta Katha Lake from Islamabad?
You can think of this journey as consisting of three main parts:
- Islamabad to Kel–Azad Kashmir – by car. (approx. 10-11 hours)
- Kel to Shounter – by hired 4×4 jeep. (about 2.5 hours)
- Shounter to the lake – on foot (trekking). (about 9-12 hours)
Once hikers reach the lake, they are greeted with a serene environment that is both peaceful and picturesque. The water of the lake is crystal clear, and the surrounding mountains provide a perfect backdrop for the beauty of the area. The area around the lake is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors to the lake can spend the night at the nearby campsites, which offer basic amenities such as tents, food, and water. Camping at the lake provides an opportunity to experience the stillness and tranquility of the surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Best Time to Visit Chitta Katha Lake
The best time to visit Chitta Katha Lake is from June to August when the weather is mild and the meadows are in full bloom. It is important to note that the area surrounding the lake is a protected wildlife sanctuary, and visitors are expected to respect the environment and local customs.
The trek to Chitta Katha Lake is considered moderately difficult, and it takes approximately 5-6 hours to reach the lake from the village of Kel in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir. The journey is not an easy one, but the breathtaking views along the way make it well worth the effort. Hikers will encounter dense forests, raging rivers, and rocky terrain as they make their way towards the lake. But as they ascend, the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape will more than makeup for the exertion.
Once hikers reach the lake, they are greeted with a serene environment that is both peaceful and picturesque. The water of the lake is crystal clear, and the surrounding mountains provide a perfect backdrop for the beauty of the area. The area around the lake is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Visitors to the lake can spend the night at the nearby campsites, which offer basic amenities such as tents, food, and water. Camping at the lake provides an opportunity to experience the stillness and tranquility of the surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The best time to visit Chitta Katha Lake is from June to August when the weather is mild and the meadows are in full bloom. During this time, the area is also home to a variety of migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
It is important to note that the area around the lake is a protected wildlife sanctuary, and visitors are expected to respect the environment and local customs. Visitors are urged to avoid littering and to be mindful of their impact on the natural surroundings.
In conclusion, Chitta Katha Lake is an enchanting place that should be on the bucket list of every nature lover and adventurer. With its breathtaking beauty and serene environment, it offers a much-needed escape from the chaos of daily life. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden treasure that is Chitta Katha Lake.
