Serenity at Allah Wali Lake: A Hidden Gem in Astore

Getting There

• Car

  If you're driving from Islamabad, head north on the N-35 (Karakoram Highway) towards Gilgit. The journey takes approximately 20-25 hours, so it's advisable to split the trip over two days. Stop at key towns like Abbottabad, Mansehra, and Naran for rest. Once you reach Gilgit, continue on the Karakoram Highway until you reach the junction for Astore District. Turn onto the Astore Road and drive for about 40 kilometers. The last part of the journey involves a steep ascent; make sure your vehicle is in good condition to handle the terrain. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to Allah Wali Lake.

• Public Transportation

  From Islamabad, take a bus to Gilgit. Buses operate frequently and the journey takes around 18-20 hours. Once in Gilgit, you can catch a shared jeep to Astore, which is about a 2-3 hour ride. The jeep fare can vary but expect to pay around PKR 500-1000. Upon reaching Astore, you will need to hire another local jeep or arrange transportation to Allah Wali Lake, which is approximately a 1-1.5 hour drive from Astore. Ensure to negotiate the fare with the driver, as it can range from PKR 3000-5000.

• Hiking

  If you prefer a more adventurous route, consider hiking from Astore to Allah Wali Lake. However, this should only be attempted by those in good physical condition and with adequate hiking gear. The trail is steep and can take anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on your pace. Make sure to bring enough food, water, and first-aid supplies. It's advisable to hire a local guide for this hike to ensure you stay on track and to learn about the surrounding flora and fauna.