Naran & Kaghan Valley Trip Plan — 3-Day Itinerary

Route: Islamabad – Hazara Motorway – Mansehra – Balakot – Naran, about 240 km (6–7 hours).

• Day 1: Reach Naran. Riverside walk and the main bazaar.
• Day 2: Lake Saif-ul-Malook by jeep (go early). Then Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top if the pass is open.
• Day 3: Return journey after breakfast.

What to carry & what you need:

• Warm clothes even in summer — nights drop sharply, and Babusar Top (4,173 m) needs thermals, gloves and a cap
• Trekking shoes with grip — the Saif-ul-Malook track is rough and rocky
• Cash in hand — ATMs are limited in Naran and there are none at the lake; jeeps and stalls are cash only
• Your original CNIC
• A headlamp or torch and a power bank
• Water, snacks and a refillable bottle — facilities at the lake are basic
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for the high-altitude glare — and agree the jeep fare before you set off

Note: Full season is June to September. The road beyond Kaghan closes in winter snow, and Babusar Top is usually open June to September.