Goharabad Lake – A Hidden Turquoise Jewel in the Mountains of Diamer!
Goharabad Lake is a high-altitude lake located near Goharabad village, a remote area that borders Darel Valley and Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan. This lake is relatively undiscovered, making it a perfect spot for those who crave solitude, wilderness, and dramatic scenery far from tourist crowds.
Reaching the lake involves a moderate half-day trek through forested hills, alpine pastures, and traditional wooden huts — offering a deep dive into local nature and culture.
Why Visit Goharabad Lake?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🏔️ Alpine Lake Beauty | Turquoise water surrounded by cliffs and forest |
| 🥾 Short Yet Rewarding Trek | Ideal for 1-day hikers |
| 🏕️ Secluded & Peaceful | No crowds, no noise — only nature |
| 📸 Great for Photography | Blue water, wildflowers, and ridges |
| 🧕 Local Interaction | Meet villagers from the Darel region |
| 🐏 Grazing Meadows | See sheep, goats, and herders on green pastures |
Routes to Goharabad Lake
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Near Goharabad Village, Darel–Chilas area, Diamer District
🚗 From Chilas City: ~25–30 km (~1 hour drive to trailhead)
🥾 Trek to Lake: 2–3 hours moderate uphill trek from Goharabad village
🕰️ Best Time to Visit: May to September
💡 Goharabad is accessible via the Karakoram Highway (KKH). From Chilas, a local jeep or hired vehicle is required to reach the village trailhead.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| May – June | Wildflowers bloom, mild weather |
| July – August | Warm days, clear skies |
| September | Autumn colors begin, fewer visitors |
| ❄️ Winter (Oct–Apr) | Snowy, inaccessible without special gear |
Things to Do at Goharabad Lake
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Trek to the Lake | Gentle climb through forested paths and meadows |
| 📷 Photography | Reflections, alpine colors, traditional shepherd life |
| 🏕️ Picnic or Day Camp | Spend hours near the lake in peace |
| 🧘 Mindful Nature Time | Meditate or journal in serene surroundings |
| 🔭 Stargazing (If Camping) | Clear skies for Milky Way shots |
| 🧕 Meet Local Families | Understand traditional Darel lifestyle |
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually