The Rundown

Saifullah Lake is one of the most beautiful and little-known gems in Swat. It is well hidden in the wild, untouched nature of Kalam Valley. It is near the famous Lake Mahodand. This mountain gem gives tourists a taste of untouched paradise as the emerald water reflects the snow-covered peaks and dense forests. 

The real charm of Saifullah Lake is its calmness, unlike the huge masses of people which flock to other places commonly visited. The lake is in the middle of nature, like a mirror. This is a great place for travelers who want to experience the mountains in their purest form to take a relaxing holiday and really feel the unwavering beauty of Pakistan's northern scenery.

Location & Accessibility

To get to Saifullah Lake, one will have to take a moment of adventure, which only contributes to its appeal. Located about 10-12 kilometers away on Mahodand Lake and about 60 kilometers to Kalam town, the trip starts with an exciting ride through the mountainous twists and turns in a jeep. The road to Kalam is a place of spectacular scenery, and once you have been there, then the real exploration begins where the road goes to Saifullah Lake. 

The last part of the journey involves a scenic walk or a pony ride, which is available locally depending on your choice and stamina. Its accessibility is restricted to the seasonal, rough road which can only be used during summer seasons when snow has cleared. Your base camp is the town of Kalam, a location which has comfortable hotels, local restaurants and well trained guides. It is strongly advisable to employ local jeep drivers who know this mountainous route very well and thus can be used to navigate safely.

Best Time to Visit Saifullah Lake

Summer is the best season between June and September where the melted snow opens up the access roads and the weather is constantly favorable to outdoor activities. In May, spring visits provide reward to a traveler due to the wild flowers which paint the surrounding meadows, but accessibility is still a challenge to a traveler who is still affected by the snow. 

Autumn, especially October is a magical period as it is a time of clear mountain air, fall leaves and there is less congestion when one wishes to be alone. A visit during winter, however, cannot be done at all between the months of November and April since there is so much snowfall and the roads are blocked entirely, leaving the area closed to tourists.

Things to Do at Saifullah Lake

Saifullah Lake has several activities that can keep any adventure seeker and peace lover alive. Traditional wooden boats that are offered by local fishermen will give the visitors an opportunity to enjoy rides on the still surface in the center of the lake with the mountains soaring high around. Lakeside locations will be ideal camping sites where campers can spend the night with perfect scenery of the sky with mountain silhouettes forming scenic backdrops. Horse riding is also in demand and there are ponies in the area that can be used to explore the alpine meadows and valleys that are rather hidden. 

Fishermen may want to give their chances in catching fresh trout with the help and the equipment offered by locals who are aware of the best locations. The photography possibilities in every direction and you have a choice of perfect reflections of the snow-capped mountains in the mirror of the lake and you have the chance of documenting the movement of light and shade upon and over the water. Families prefer the lake to have a relaxing picnic and lay the blanket on the lawny banks and children frolic in this natural playground.