Discover the magical beauty, timeless tales, and hidden wonders of Pakistan’s most enchanting lake.
Saif-ul-Muluk: Where Legends Meet Landscape
Tucked away in the lofty mountains of the Kaghan Valley lies a breathtaking gem that transcends physical beauty—Lake Saif-ul-Muluk. More than just a scenic wonder, this glacial lake is a tapestry of folklore, romance, and spirituality, attracting adventurers, poets, and dreamers from all around the world.
But this lake is not just a body of water. It’s a place where legends breathe, where stars dance on water, and where a prince once fell in love with a fairy.
Where is Saif-ul-Muluk Located?
Lake Saif-ul-Muluk sits at an elevation of over 10,578 feet (3,224 meters) above sea level, near the town of Naran, in Mansehra District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Accessible during the summer months (typically May to October), the lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Malika Parbat, the highest in the valley.
During winter, the road leading to the lake is buried under snow, and the lake itself freezes, transforming the area into a silent, white wonderland.
Fun Fact: The lake was formed by glacial moraines during the Pleistocene period and is fed by the melting glaciers from the surrounding mountains.
The Legend of Prince Saif and the Fairy Badr Jamal
The lake’s fame goes far beyond its natural allure—its true soul lies in the legend that gave it its name.
According to folklore, Prince Saif-ul-Muluk, a Persian royal, fell in love with a fairy princess named Badr Jamal who lived at the lake. The tale, immortalized in poetic form by Sufi saint Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, speaks of deep love, spiritual struggle, and divine destiny.
In the story, Prince Saif dreams of the fairy and is told by a saint that he must go to the ends of the earth to find her. Guided by divine instruction and fueled by love, he travels to the mystical lake. There, after a series of spiritual tests, he meets Badr Jamal and wins her heart, but not without confronting the jinns and forces guarding her realm.
This is not just a love story—it is a spiritual allegory of divine pursuit, of soul seeking union with the Beloved.
Scenic Beauty Beyond Words
While the story captivates the soul, the lake enchants the eyes. With its emerald green waters, surrounded by towering mountains and mirrored by crystal-clear reflections, Saif-ul-Muluk offers an otherworldly view—particularly at dawn or under a star-studded night sky.
What to See:
- Malika Parbat Viewpoint: Stunning views of the highest peak in the valley.
- Boat Rides: Small wooden boats are available in summer for a peaceful drift on the lake.
- Star Gazing: With no light pollution, the night sky becomes a living planetarium.
- Camping: Some visitors stay overnight in tents, although conditions remain basic.
Travel Tip: Visit during early morning or golden hour for the best views and photographs.
Activities and Adventures
For those seeking adventure, Saif-ul-Muluk offers more than sightseeing.
What You Can Do:
- Trek to Ansoo Lake: A legendary tear-shaped lake accessible through a full-day trek. The path is steep and challenging, but the views are breathtaking.
- Horse Riding: Locals offer guided horse rides from the jeep drop-off point to the lake.
- Meadow Explorations: Gentle hikes around the lake lead to serene meadows, grazing yaks, and glaciers.
Note: Trekking requires stamina, proper shoes, and a local guide. Always check the weather forecast.
Local Life and Culture
On the way to Saif-ul-Muluk, tourists pass through the bustling town of Naran. A seasonal tourist hub, it offers insight into the region’s unique Pashtun and Kohistani cultures, famous for their warm hospitality and oral storytelling traditions.
Cultural Highlights:
- Traditional Cuisine: Charsi karahi, sajji, and local chapli kebab are favorites.
- Handicrafts: Locally made shawls, rugs, and stone jewelry.
- Folktales from Locals: Guides and residents often share eerie tales about fairies and spirits inhabiting the area.
Local legend says fairies descend upon the lake on the 14th night of the lunar month. Many locals advise visitors to remain quiet or respectful if visiting at night.
How to Reach Lake Saif-ul-Muluk
Route Overview:
- Islamabad → Mansehra → Balakot → Naran (Approx. 8–10 hours by road)
- From Naran, it’s a 1-hour 4×4 jeep ride up a rough, winding road to the lake.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to early October
Where to Stay: Naran has a wide range of hotels and guesthouses. Many offer jeep services or local guides.
A Lake That Lives in the Heart
Lake Saif-ul-Muluk is not just a travel destination—it is a chapter from Pakistan’s collective soul. Whether you go to witness its natural grandeur, to hear whispers of ancient love, or to sit still and reflect in silence, this lake leaves you changed.
Because Saif-ul-Muluk doesn’t just reflect mountains—it reflects dreams, myths, and the enduring beauty of Pakistani culture.
