Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is one of the most stunning and unique attractions in Pakistan. It is a man-made lake that was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide blocked the Hunza River, creating a natural dam and flooding the valley. The lake is now a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors, such as boating, jet skiing, fishing, hiking, and camping. The lake is also a place of historical and cultural significance, as it is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the local people who faced the disaster and its aftermath.

How to Get to Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is located in the Gojal region of Hunza Valley, about 120 km from Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. You can reach the lake by road, either by hiring a private car or by taking a public bus from Gilgit. The road to the lake is scenic and adventurous, passing through the Karakoram Highway, the world’s highest paved international road. The journey takes about 3 hours by car or 4 hours by bus.

Alternatively, you can also fly to Gilgit from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, and then take a road trip to the lake. The flight takes about an hour and offers spectacular views of the mountains and glaciers. However, the flights are often subject to weather conditions and cancellations, so it is advisable to book in advance and have a flexible itinerary.

What to Do at Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can enjoy a range of activities and attractions at the lake, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the best things to do at Attabad Lake:

• Boating: One of the most popular and fun ways to explore the lake is by boating. You can rent a boat from the local operators and cruise around the lake, admiring the turquoise water, the snow-capped mountains, and the colorful villages. Boating is available throughout the year, except in winter when the lake freezes.
• Jet Skiing: If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you can try jet skiing on the lake. You can rent a jet ski from the local operators and zoom across the lake, feeling the wind and the spray on your face. Jet skiing is a great way to experience the lake from a different perspective and have some fun. Jet skiing is available from April to October, depending on the weather and water level.
• Fishing: If you are fond of fishing, you can try your luck at catching some trout fish at the lake. The lake is home to trout fish, which are delicious and nutritious. You can either fish on your own or hire a local guide who can provide you with the equipment and the tips. You can also buy fresh fish from the local fishermen and cook it yourself or have it cooked at a nearby restaurant. Fishing is available throughout the year, except in winter when the lake freezes.
• Hiking: If you are into hiking, you can explore the surrounding trails and hills that offer stunning views of the lake and the valley. You can hike to different viewpoints and attractions, shihkat village view ponit. The trails are of varying difficulty and length, so you can choose the one that suits your level and time. Hiking is best done from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom.
• Camping: If you want to spend a night under the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the lake, you can camp at the lake. There are several campsites around the lake that provide tents, mattresses, blankets, and other facilities. You can also bring your own camping gear and pitch your tent at a suitable spot. Camping is a great way to experience the lake at different times of the day and night, and to connect with nature and the local culture. Camping is available from April to October, depending on the weather and water level.

Why Visit Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is more than just a lake; it is a symbol of the beauty and the spirit of Pakistan. The lake is a perfect example of the diverse and stunning landscape of Pakistan, with its turquoise water, green meadows, and snow-capped peaks. The lake is also a place of historical and cultural significance, as it is a reminder of the disaster that struck the region in 2010 and the resilience and adaptability of the local people who faced it and rebuilt their lives. The lake is also a place of harmony and peace, where you can witness the coexistence of different faiths and communities.

Attabad Lake is a place where you can experience the true beauty and spirit of Pakistan. It is a place that will leave you in awe and inspire you to explore more of this amazing country. It is a place that you should not miss when you visit Pakistan.

Attabad Lake is a lake in Gojal Valley, Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan, of 21 kilometres (13 mi) long and over 100 metres (330 ft) in depth. The lake was created in January 2010 as a result of the Attabad landslide.  by the first week of June 2010 when it began flowing over the landslide dam, completely submerging lower Shishkat and partly flooding Gulmit.

The lake was formed due to a massive landslide at Attabad Village in Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, 14 kilometres (9 mi) upstream (east) of Karimabad that occurred on 4 January 2010/ The landslide killed twenty people and blocked the flow of the Hunza River for five months. The subdivision of Gojal has the greatest number of flooded buildings, over 170 houses, and 120 shops. The residents also had shortages of food and other items due to the blockage of the Karakoram Highway.

Weather and Temperature Chart

The lake has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The average temperature of the lake ranges from -4°C in winter to 70°C in summer. The lake receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the highest amount in July and August. The lake also freezes in winter, making it inaccessible for boating and fishing.

Here is a table that summarizes the weather of Attabad Lake for the year, for latest weather update click onAccuWeather.