Overview
Khalti Lake lies in the Gupis valley of Ghizer, about 20 to 30 minutes by road from Gupis. It was formed when a landslide blocked the Ghizer River, and the water now fills a long hollow among poplar and willow trees, with high, dry mountains behind. The colour changes with the light, from pale green in summer to a deep blue-grey in autumn.
The lake is known for its trout, and fishing is allowed with a licence obtained locally. A small suspension footbridge crosses an arm of the water, and in winter the surface freezes into thick white ice, which is a quiet attraction of its own. It is an easy, scenic stop on the long drive between Gilgit and Yasin or Shandur.
Highlights
- A calm, clear lake ringed by poplars and mountains
- Trout fishing with a local licence
- A small footbridge and lakeside picnic spots
- Frozen white ice in the depths of winter
Best time to visit
May to October is the best time for a visit, with September and October offering autumn colour. In winter the lake freezes and the road can be icy, and the landscape is a quieter, whiter version of the summer scene.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- 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), then to Gilgit or drive the Karakoram Highway. From Gilgit, drive west along the Ghizer road through Gahkuch and Gupis: Khalti Lake is roughly 110 to 140 km from Gilgit, about three to four hours, and a few minutes beyond Gupis. It fits as a stop on the way to Phander, Shandur or Yasin.
What to expect
It is a simple lakeside place with a few shops and a guesthouse or two nearby. The shore is open, so bring a hat and sun cream, and a jacket for the evening. Swimming is not advised because of the cold, the depth and the lack of supervision.
Practical tips
- Ask in Gupis about fishing licences and rules before you cast a line.
- Stay on the paths, take your rubbish with you, and keep boats off the water unless local operators are present.
- Combine the lake with Phander Valley or Gupis village in one long day.
- Winter visits need a warm layer and care on icy roads.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fish at Khalti Lake?
Yes, trout fishing is allowed with a licence, which is obtained locally in Gupis. Ask about the season and any limits.
How was the lake formed?
By a landslide that blocked the Ghizer River, and the water filled the valley behind it.
Does it freeze in winter?
Yes, the lake usually freezes over in the coldest months, and the ice can be thick enough for local people to cross, though visitors should always follow local advice.
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: Majduddin (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Leo0858 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Sabahat isha (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
