Overview
Chitta Katta Lake lies in the Shounter Valley, a remote side valley of the upper Neelum, and is often described as the highest lake in Azad Kashmir, at roughly 4,100 m. The lake sits below a ring of dark, jagged peaks, with glaciers and snow patches on the slopes above. Its colours range from steel grey to deep blue, depending on the light and the amount of silt.
The journey starts at Kel, where a rough jeep track runs several hours up the valley to the upper meadows, followed by a long hike of several hours. The lake is open only for a short period each year, and many people camp on the way. This is a trip for fit, well-prepared travellers, ideally with a local guide, and it is far from help, so careful planning is important.
Highlights
- The lake below jagged rock peaks and glaciers
- A jeep ride and hike through the Shounter Valley
- Alpine meadows and camping at high altitude
- Remote scenery away from the main tourist routes
Best time to visit
July to September is the usual season, when the track is open and the lake is largely free of ice. Late August and early September are often the most reliable. Outside this period, the route is blocked by snow.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Good
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Islamabad (ISB) and drive via Muzaffarabad and the Neelum Valley to Kel, a long drive of six to eight hours. From Kel, local jeeps climb the rough track into the Shounter Valley, and the final stage is on foot. Hire a guide and arrange permits and transport through a local operator or hotel.
What to expect
The track is extremely rough, and the hike is steep and long, with the altitude reaching over 4,000 m. Facilities are basic or non-existent, so bring a tent, food and warm clothing. Weather changes fast, and there is no phone signal in most of the valley.
Practical tips
- Hire a local guide and jeep, and confirm the route and permissions before you go.
- Allow several days, including time to acclimatise.
- Carry a tent, warm sleeping gear, food, water purification and first-aid supplies.
- Take all waste away and respect the local people and grazing land.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Chitta Katta Lake?
About 4,100 m according to most sources, although some give lower figures.
How do I get there?
By jeep from Kel up the Shounter Valley, then a long hike. A local guide is strongly advised.
When can I go?
Usually July to September, when the track and lake are clear of snow. Check locally before setting out.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Arsalanakhan (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Arsalanakhan (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Arsalanakhan (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
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