Stunning turquoise lake formed naturally, offering boating and breathtaking mountain scenery
Attabad Lake is one of Pakistan's most stunning natural wonders, a breathtaking turquoise lake that emerged dramatically in 2010 following a massive landslide that blocked the flow of the Hunza River. Located in the Gojal region of Hunza Valley, this 21-kilometer-long lake has become an iconic destination known for its mesmerizing blue-green waters set against the dramatic backdrop of the Karakoram mountains. The lake's stunning color results from glacial rock flour suspended in the water, which reflects sunlight to create shades of turquoise and emerald that change with weather and light conditions.
The creation of Attabad Lake was both a tragedy and a transformation. The landslide that formed the lake buried the village of Attabad, displaced thousands of people, and severed the Karakoram Highway, isolating upstream communities for years. However, from this disaster emerged a landscape of extraordinary beauty that has become a major tourist attraction and economic opportunity for the region. The lake now offers various recreational activities including boating, jet skiing, and fishing, while the submerged sections of the original Karakoram Highway have been replaced by new tunnels and roads that navigate around the lake.
Today, Attabad Lake stands as a symbol of nature's power to both destroy and create beauty. The contrast between the vibrant blue waters, stark mountain slopes, and remnants of submerged trees creates a landscape that is both haunting and magnificent. Whether viewed from the shore, experienced by boat, or photographed from surrounding viewpoints, Attabad Lake offers an unforgettable experience that captures the dramatic beauty and resilience of northern Pakistan.
Attabad Lake has a dramatic and relatively recent history that began on January 4, 2010, when a massive landslide completely blocked the flow of the Hunza River near the village of Attabad. The landslide, which involved approximately 80 million cubic meters of rock and debris, buried the village under 100 meters of material, resulting in 20 fatalities and displacing over 6,000 people from surrounding areas. As the river continued to flow behind the natural dam, a lake began to form, gradually expanding upstream and submerging villages, agricultural land, and sections of the vital Karakoram Highway.
Over the following months, the lake grew to approximately 21 kilometers in length and 100 meters in depth, creating serious concerns about potential catastrophic flooding if the natural dam were to breach. Engineering efforts focused on creating a controlled spillway to manage water levels and prevent disaster. Meanwhile, upstream communities including Shishkat, Gulmit, and Hussaini were completely cut off from downstream areas, relying on boat transport and dangerous mountain paths for essential supplies. The Pakistani government and international agencies worked to support affected communities while developing permanent solutions.
The reconstruction included building new sections of the Karakoram Highway, including five tunnels totaling 7 kilometers that bypassed the lake's most challenging sections. This engineering achievement restored the land connection between China and Pakistan while creating new tourism opportunities around the lake. Today, Attabad Lake stands as both a memorial to the disaster's victims and a testament to human resilience and adaptation in the face of natural forces.
Located in the Gojal region of Hunza Valley, surrounded by dramatic Karakoram peaks. The lake stretches 21km with maximum depth around 100m.
Vibrant turquoise color from glacial rock flour. Water temperature remains cold year-round. The lake is part of the Hunza River system.
Submerged trees, drowned villages, and dramatic mountain reflections create hauntingly beautiful scenery. The lake changes with seasons and light conditions.
May to October for boating and accessibility. June-September offer warmest weather. Spring and autumn provide beautiful seasonal colors.
No entry fee. Boat rides: $10-25 per person. Jet skiing: $20-40. Accommodation nearby: $20-80/night. Total daily budget: $40-150.
Summer: 15-25°C, pleasant for activities. Spring/Autumn: 10-20°C, cooler but comfortable. Winter: Below freezing, lake may partially freeze.
Experience the lake by boat, with options ranging from traditional wooden boats to speedboats. Tours typically cover the main lake area with stops for photography.
Capture the stunning contrast between turquoise waters and dramatic mountains. Sunrise and sunset provide particularly magical lighting conditions.
Adventure activities including jet skiing available during summer months. Offers thrilling way to experience the lake's expanse.
From Islamabad: 14-16 hours via Karakoram Highway. The lake is visible from KKH between Gulmit and Shishkat. Parking available at multiple viewpoints.
Buses from major cities to Hunza. Local transport available from Karimabad and Gulmit to lake access points. Boat services connect various points.
Gilgit Airport (approx. 75 km). Islamabad International Airport (approx. 560 km). Road travel required from both airports.
Magnificent mountain peaks with distinctive cathedral-like spires, visible from the lake area. Popular photography subject.
Famous suspension bridge nearby, offering adventurous crossing and additional photography opportunities.
Traditional Wakhi village with cultural museum, historic house, and beautiful setting overlooking the lake.
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Always wear life jackets provided. Follow operator instructions. Be aware of weather changes. Lake can be choppy in windy conditions.
Polarizing filter enhances water color. Morning light best for photography. Wide-angle lens recommended for landscapes. Drone regulations apply.
High altitude means strong UV radiation. Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Reflectance from water increases exposure.
The Gojal region offers unique culinary traditions with Wakhi and Central Asian influences:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread), mamtu (dumplings), and various meat stews. The region is known for its organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Apricots (fresh and dried), walnut-based dishes, and locally produced dairy products. Sea buckthorn products are regional specialties.
Butter tea (salted tea), apricot juice, and various herbal infusions. Modern cafes also offer coffee and international drinks.
Attabad Lake reaches depths of approximately 100 meters (330 feet) at its deepest points, though depths vary throughout the lake. The lake was formed by a landslide that created a natural dam, resulting in uneven depths with submerged trees, structures, and irregular bottom topography. Regarding swimming, while the lake's stunning turquoise waters may look inviting, swimming is generally not recommended for several reasons: The water remains extremely cold year-round due to its glacial origins, posing risk of hypothermia even in summer. The uneven bottom and submerged obstacles create potential hazards. There are no designated swimming areas or lifeguards. Strong winds can create choppy conditions quickly. Most visitors enjoy the lake from boats or the shoreline. If you're determined to swim, it should only be attempted close to shore, for brief periods, with proper safety precautions and never alone. The local boat operators can advise on the safest areas if swimming is absolutely necessary.
Attabad Lake offers several boating options to suit different preferences and budgets: Traditional wooden boats typically cost $10-15 per person for a 30-45 minute tour covering the main lake area. These boats offer a peaceful, authentic experience and are great for photography. Speedboats and larger motorboats range from $15-25 per person for similar duration but cover more distance; these are better for those wanting to explore further areas of the lake. Private boat charters are available for $50-100 depending on boat size and duration, ideal for groups or those wanting a customized experience. Jet ski rentals cost approximately $20-40 for 15-30 minutes, offering an adrenaline-filled way to experience the lake. Prices are generally negotiable, especially during off-peak hours or for groups. Most operators are located at the main access points along the Karakoram Highway. It's advisable to confirm the route duration and safety equipment before boarding. During peak season (June-August), there may be waiting times for popular boat types.
Yes, sections of the original Karakoram Highway are visible beneath the waters of Attabad Lake, creating a fascinating and somewhat haunting sight. When the lake formed in 2010, it submerged approximately 19 kilometers of the highway, along with several villages and agricultural land. During boat tours, you can see where the highway disappears into the water and reappears on the other side. In some areas, particularly when water levels are lower, the outlines of the submerged road are visible through the clear water. The most dramatic evidence of the submerged landscape are the dead trees that still stand in the lake, their bare branches creating eerie silhouettes against the turquoise water. These trees were part of orchards and forests that now lie beneath the lake. Some boat operators specifically point out areas where village structures were submerged. The contrast between the beautiful lake and these reminders of the disaster creates a poignant experience that adds depth to the visual spectacle. The new Karakoram Highway, with its impressive tunnels and bridges, runs alongside the lake, demonstrating the engineering response to this natural event.
The photographic appeal of Attabad Lake changes dramatically throughout the day, offering different opportunities: Early morning (sunrise to about 9 AM) provides soft, warm light that beautifully illuminates the mountains while the water often appears calmer with better reflections. The low angle of sunlight enhances the texture of the surrounding landscapes. Midday (10 AM to 3 PM) offers the most intense turquoise color in the water due to the high sun position, but the light can be harsh for landscape photography. Late afternoon (3 PM to sunset) creates beautiful side lighting that emphasizes the contours of the mountains, with the golden hour before sunset particularly magical. Overcast days can actually be excellent for photography as the diffuse light reduces harsh shadows and brings out the saturation in the water color. Each season also offers different conditions - spring brings snow on surrounding peaks, summer offers the most vibrant water colors, autumn provides golden landscapes, and winter creates dramatic ice formations along the shores. Many photographers visit multiple times at different hours to capture the lake's varying moods.
Yes, there are several accommodation options located near Attabad Lake, ranging from basic to comfortable: Several hotels and guesthouses have been established along the Karakoram Highway with direct views of the lake. These typically offer rooms with balconies or windows facing the water, with prices ranging from $20-80 per night depending on amenities. There are also camping opportunities for those seeking a more immersive experience, though facilities are basic and weather conditions can be challenging, particularly at night. The nearby town of Gulmit (approximately 15-20 minutes drive) offers additional accommodation options including traditional guesthouses that provide cultural experiences along with comfort. For those wanting luxury accommodation, the Serena Hotel in Gulmit offers upscale facilities with beautiful lake views. During peak season (June-August), advance booking is recommended, especially for properties with the best lake views. Many accommodations can help arrange boat tours and other activities. Whether you choose to stay right by the lake or in a nearby town, waking up to views of the turquoise waters against the mountain backdrop is an unforgettable experience.