Overview
Karambar Lake, also called Qurumbar, lies at about 4,300 m near the Karambar Pass, close to the border with Afghanistan. It is one of the highest lakes in Pakistan, a long sheet of turquoise water on a wide, grassy plain, with snow peaks around it. The setting is remote, with no villages for many kilometres.
The lake can be reached by a long journey up the Yarkhun Valley and into Broghil, a trip of two days or more by jeep from Chitral, or by trekking from the Ishkoman Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is an expedition rather than a day trip, and visitors need local guides, camping equipment and time to adjust to the altitude.
Highlights
- The turquoise lake in a wide high-mountain basin
- Snow peaks and glaciers on the horizon
- The long journey through the Yarkhun Valley and Broghil
- Camping beside the lake under dark skies
Best time to visit
July to September is the usual season, when the roads and passes are open and the weather is more settled. Snow and cold close the area for much of the year. Check road and weather conditions with local guides and authorities before planning.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Best
- 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 Chitral (CJL) from Islamabad when the weather allows, or drive via Dir. From Chitral, jeeps travel up the Yarkhun Valley via Mastuj to Broghil, a long journey of two days or more, followed by a further jeep ride or walk to the lake. The alternative approach is a trek from Ishkoman.
What to expect
This is a remote and demanding trip with long drives on rough roads, altitude above 4,000 m and very basic facilities. You need a local guide, tents and food, and the area is sensitive because of the border, so check the rules and any permits in advance.
Practical tips
- Check current rules and any permit requirements for Broghil and the border area before you go.
- Travel with a local guide and a driver who knows the route.
- Acclimatise gradually: spend nights at increasing altitude on the way.
- Carry full camping gear, warm clothing, food and water treatment.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Karambar Lake?
About 4,300 m, one of the highest lakes in Pakistan.
How long does the journey take?
Two days or more by jeep from Chitral, depending on the road, plus time to acclimatise.
Do I need a permit?
Rules for the border areas change. Ask your operator and the local authorities well before you travel.
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: Talha Mahin Mir (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Talha Mahin Mir (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Hasanzubair89 (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
