The Rundown

Located in the high, snow capped Hindu Kush mountains is a natural wonder that is known as Kundol Lake. This serene alpine lake is situated in one of the well known places ( the Kalam region) in Swat called the Utror Valley which is situated at the elevation of around 9,950 feet above sea level. Engulfed in snow dense mountains and covered with thick forests, Kundol Lake with its crystal-blue and turquoise waters and scenic beauty provides the flower of the Valley, Swat with the appellation of mini Switzerland.

It is a dream place that fascinates adventure lovers, nature photographers, and other peaceful tourists, coming to visit this marvellous destination place in Pakistan. Kundol Lake is also magical due to its unique nature depending on seasons and turning from deep turquoise in summer angle to an icy blue pool in winter, which becomes a breathtaking show people are fascinated to see.

Getting to Kundol Lake: Your Journey to Paradise

The road to Kundol Lake is an experience in itself and demands vigor and planning. The lake is well-positioned in the Utror Valley, some 19 kilometers off the crowded town of Kalam. You will start with an exciting ride in a jeep to the Ladu Valley where you will find the real action.

Traversing a pleasing view of Pakistani countryside, the visitors spend 3-4 hours walking through moderate hikes through this scenic beauty. The path passes through lush alpine highlands, across trickling streams and through dense pine forests that are out of a fairy tale. This route may be rough at times, so during rainy seasons it is advisable to use a 4x4 car to deliver a smooth ride.

Kalam is the closest town to stay and source food and trek as Utror is where most trekkers begin. Some visitors prefer spending an overnight camping on the beautiful shores of the lake making the place truly magical to visit, however, the trip can easily be made a day trip and be taken as an excursion out of Kalam.

Best Time to Experience Kundol Lake

When you visit Kundol Lake, the time may be different and that can play a crucial role. Summer months June through September are the most accessible with hiking conditions that are ideal and warm and allow the opportunity to have camping experiences under the stars. At this time of year, the lake is at its most beautiful with its distinctive turquoises, and the meadows are full of flowers.

Autumn, especially in the month of October, has a different beauty with chilly weather and golden fields. The crowds are smaller this time of year and photos you take will have an exceptional quality because the surrounding vegetation turns into warm toned amber.

In May, visitors in the spring enjoy the rebirth of nature as snows fall off of the mountains, streams rush and wildflowers start to flower all along the trail. Winter months, November-April however, are of great concern, as the terrain is now snow covered and highly inaccessible without the use of professional mountaineering gear.

The best lighting at the lake is during the early morning or late afternoon, the best times since it will create the most spectacular mirroring on the surface of the lake regarding to the surrounding mountains.

The Trekking Experience: A Journey Through Paradise

Kundol Lake trek is moderate in difficulty and suitable to fit beginners and intermediate trekkers with a trek starting point at Ladu Valley. The path is well planned by nature as the landscape has gradual elevation gain naturally that gives hikers a chance to adjust to the altitude.

The beginning of the trek will take you along sunny forest tracks to offer shade as well as an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the wildlife present. As you go, the terrain has views of expansive alpine meadows until finally, the lake is in open view. A cluster of small wooden bridges pass over glacier streams, which in high-water time demand extra care.

Rather inexpensive local porters and experienced guides can be easily hired in Utror, and on top of safety and navigation support, they provide an opportunity to contribute to local community support. Prep kit essentials encompass solid hiking boots, layers to adapt to varying conditions, good rain jacket, snacks to give you energy, and a water filter bottle to get clean water out of a mountain stream.

Activities and Attractions at Kundol Lake

Kundol Lake presents different activities to anyone. Photography enthusiasts have an endless number of possibilities to snap the best reflection peak specimens on the mirror surface of the lake. The natural beauty of the area gives too many Instagram opportunities in a day.

Camping on the lake is an encounter you will not forget, the clean air and the stars can be seen in millions in the clear sky at night. The Milky Way is also obscured by any clouds on the night sky, where it is highly visible to the ones living in the country.

Fishing hobbyists can also fish the trout in the clear lakes but it would be important to check on the required permits. In summer months, Gypsies occasionally also provide small wooden barges in order to provide a view of the lake through different ways.

The site is ideal to go on a picnic and relax peacefully but people have to bring all necessities because no facilities are available at the lake. Walking along the coast and to some viewpoints gives one a chance to wander down smaller streams, discovering both natural hidden corners and odd-shaped rocks.