Ansoo Lake is one of the most unique and breathtaking alpine lakes in Pakistan, famous for its rare tear-drop shape. Hidden high in the mountains of Kaghan Valley, this lake sits near Saif ul Malook Lake and requires a challenging trek to reach.
Unlike other tourist lakes that are accessible by road, Ansoo Lake is only reachable through hiking, making it one of the most adventurous trekking destinations in northern Pakistan.
Travelers from Naran usually start their journey from Lake Saif ul Malook and then continue on foot toward the high alpine terrain.
This complete Ansoo Lake travel guide covers location, height, trekking routes, distance, history, weather, difficulty level, and best time to visit. If you are planning an adventure in Kaghan Valley, this guide will help you prepare for one of the toughest and most rewarding hikes in Pakistan.
Ansoo Lake – Complete Travel Guide 2026
Ansoo Lake is considered one of the most beautiful and mysterious lakes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan due to its perfect tear-drop shape, which can only be fully seen from above. The lake is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and steep rocky terrain.
Why Ansoo Lake is the Most Popular Hill Station in Pakistan?
- Unique tear-drop shape (rare in the world)
- Located at extreme high altitude
- Challenging trekking route
- Close to Saif ul Malook Lake
- Stunning panoramic mountain views
- Famous among adventure trekkers
Unlike normal tourist lakes, Ansoo Lake offers a real Himalayan trekking experience, attracting hikers, photographers, and adventure lovers from around the world.
Ansoo Lake Height and Location – Complete Overview
- Height: approx. 13,927 feet (4,246 meters)
- Location: Upper Kaghan Valley
- Nearby landmark: Malika Parbat region
- Base point: Saif ul Malook Lake
The high altitude makes oxygen level low and weather unpredictable.
Where is Ansoo Lake Located
Ansoo Lake is located in the upper region of Kaghan Valley near Malika Parbat peak. It lies behind Saif ul Malook Lake and is accessible only by trekking.
Route Location
Naran → Jeep to Saif ul Malook → Trek to Ansoo Lake
The lake is hidden behind mountains and glaciers, making it difficult to see unless reached on foot.
Nearby features:
- Saif ul Malook base area
- Malika Parbat mountain
- Glacier ridges
- Alpine meadows
Because of its remote location, GPS signals are weak in this area.
Ansoo Lake Height in Feet & Meters
Ansoo Lake is located at an altitude of approximately 13,927 feet (4,246 meters) above sea level.
Altitude Facts
- Higher than Saif ul Malook Lake
- Extremely cold environment
- Snow present most of the year
- Oxygen level very low
Due to high altitude, trekkers may feel fatigue and shortness of breath. Proper acclimatization is required.
Ansoo Lake Depth – Is There Any Measured Depth
There is no officially recorded exact depth of Ansoo Lake due to its remote and frozen nature.
Estimated Conditions
- Depth varies seasonally
- Fed by glacier meltwater
- Partially frozen most of the year
- Very cold water temperature
Because the lake is located at high altitude and is not easily accessible, scientific measurements are limited. It is believed to be moderately deep but not suitable for swimming or boating.
Naran to Ansoo Lake Distance
Direct distance from Naran to Ansoo Lake is approximately approximately 25–30 km, but it cannot be covered by road.
Travel Breakdown
Naran → Saif ul Malook (by jeep: 30–40 min)
Saif ul Malook → Ansoo Lake (trek: 6–8 hours)
Total travel time:
- 1 full day trek
- Depends on fitness level
This is one of the hardest treks in Kaghan Valley.
Saif ul Malook to Ansoo Lake Distance
Distance from Saif ul Malook Lake to Ansoo Lake is around 6 to 8 km trekking route.
Trek Details
- Steep uphill climbs
- Snow patches in early summer
- Rocky terrain
- No proper road
Average hiking time:
- 4 to 7 hours one way
Experienced guides are highly recommended.
Ansoo Lake Distance from Naran
From Naran town, Ansoo Lake is not directly accessible. The journey includes jeep ride + trekking.
Route Summary
Naran → Saif ul Malook → Trek → Ansoo Lake
Total time:
- 6–10 hours depending on pace
Most travelers start early morning from Naran.
Distance of Ansoo Lake from Saif ul Malook Lake
Distance between Saif ul Malook Lake and Ansoo Lake is approximately 6–8 km (trekking route).
This section is:
- Steep and rocky
- Snow-covered in early months
- Physically demanding
This is the most challenging part of the journey.
How to Reach Ansoo Lake from Naran
Reaching Ansoo Lake requires both jeep travel and trekking.
Step-by-Step Route
- Naran to Saif ul Malook (jeep ride)
- Start trek from Saif ul Malook base
- Cross glacier and mountain ridge
- Reach Ansoo Lake viewpoint
Transport Cost
- Jeep Naran → Saif ul Malook: PKR 2,000–3,500
- Guide fee: PKR 3,000–6,000
Hiring a local guide is strongly recommended.
Ansoo Lake Location in Kaghan Valley
Ansoo Lake is located in the upper Kaghan Valley region near Malika Parbat peak. It is surrounded by glaciers and high mountain ridges.
Geographical Position
- North of Saif ul Malook
- East of Malika Parbat
- High alpine zone
The lake sits in a bowl-shaped valley surrounded by snow walls.
Ansoo Lake History and Story
Ansoo Lake is not only famous for its beauty but also its legend. Locals believe the lake was formed from the tear of a grieving prince.
Historical Belief
- Named after “Ansoo” meaning tear
- Associated with local folklore
- Discovered by shepherds centuries ago
The lake remained unknown to tourists until trekking routes became popular in recent decades.
Why It is Called Ansoo Lake (Tear Drop Shape Story)
The name “Ansoo Lake” comes from its unique tear-drop shape when viewed from above.
Story Explanation
- Shape resembles a human tear
- Visible only from aerial view
- Symbol of emotional legend
This rare natural formation makes it one of the most photographed lakes in Pakistan.
Best Time to Visit Ansoo Lake
Best time to visit Ansoo Lake is July to September.
Monthly Guide
July – Snow melting, best trekking
August – Stable weather
September – Clear skies
Winter season:
- October to June: inaccessible
Weather must be stable before starting trek.
Ansoo Lake Condition in June
In June, Ansoo Lake is still partially covered with snow.
Conditions
- Heavy snow on trekking route
- Difficult hiking conditions
- Cold temperatures
Only experienced trekkers should attempt early-season hikes.
Weather at Ansoo Lake
Weather at Ansoo Lake is extremely cold and unpredictable.
Summer Weather
5°C to 12°C
Evening
Near freezing
Winter
Fully frozen and inaccessible
Weather can change within minutes, so preparation is essential.
Trekking Route to Ansoo Lake
Main Trek Route
Saif ul Malook → Base Camp → Glacier ridge → Ansoo Lake
Trail Features
- Rocky paths
- Snow crossings
- Narrow ridges
- Steep climbs
The trail requires good fitness and stamina.
Difficulty Level of Ansoo Lake Trek
Ansoo Lake trek is considered moderate to difficult.
Difficulty Factors
- High altitude
- Long trekking hours
- Cold weather
- Snow and glacier sections
Beginners should hire guides and take breaks frequently.
Things to Do at Ansoo Lake
Photography
Capture rare tear-drop shaped lake view.
Trekking Experience
Enjoy one of Pakistan’s most challenging hikes.
Nature Exploration
Glaciers, peaks, and alpine scenery.
Relaxation
Sit near lake and enjoy silence.
Travel Tips for Ansoo Lake Trek
- Start early morning
- Hire local guide
- Carry warm clothes
- Use trekking shoes
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid rushing
- Check weather before trip
FAQs About Ansoo Lake
Why is Ansoo Lake famous?
Because of its rare tear-drop shape and high altitude location.
How hard is Ansoo Lake trek?
It is moderate to difficult and requires good fitness.
Can beginners visit Ansoo Lake?
Yes, but only with a guide and proper preparation.
Is Ansoo Lake open all year?
No, it is accessible only in summer months.
How long is trek to Ansoo Lake?
Around 4–7 hours from Saif ul Malook.
What is best time to visit Ansoo Lake?
July to September is ideal.
Conclusion
Ansoo Lake is one of the most adventurous and beautiful trekking destinations in Pakistan. Its unique tear-drop shape, high altitude, and challenging route make it a dream destination for trekkers. If you are planning a trip to Kaghan Valley, prepare well, travel with guides, and visit between July and September for the best experience.