Nestled in the heart of the Gupis Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan lies a hidden gem known as Khalti Lake. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, this pristine lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location of Khalti Lake, Gupis Valley
A few kilometers from the Gupis Valley is a charming lake called Khalti Lake. It is known for being a habitat for trout fish. The lake is formed by a stretch of river near Khalti village. The dark blue waters of the lake look very charming in summer. The lake usually freezes in winter and the villagers of Khalti go walking on it. There is a beautiful restaurant near Khalti Lake. There is a PTDC motel nearby to facilitate tourists.
Khalti Lake Height
Khalti Lake is located at an altitude of approximately 9,500 feet above sea level and covers an area of about 2.5 square kilometers. The lake is fed by the melting snow and glaciers of the surrounding mountains, and its crystal-clear waters reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The journey to Khalti Lake is not an easy one, as it requires a four-wheel drive jeep ride on a bumpy and winding road. However, the breathtaking views of the Gupis Valley along the way make the journey worth it. Visitors can also choose to hike to the lake, which takes around 3-4 hours from the nearest village.
Khalti Lake is famous for being home to trout. The lake is formed by a stretch of river near Khalti village. The dark blue waters of the lake look very charming in summer. The lake usually freezes in winter and the villagers of Khalti go walking on it. There is a beautiful restaurant near Khalti Lake. There is a PTDC motel nearby to facilitate tourists. It is a nice place to stay overnight in PTDC. From the PTDC Motel, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the lake.
The Rajas of Yasin Suleman Shah and Raja Gohar Aman extended their rule to Gilgit Bagrot by pushing back the Dogras and at some point in history remained the undefeated rulers of the region stretching from Yasin to Gilgit. Later after the death of Gohar Aman due to an internal conspiracy, the Dogras of the Maharaja of Kashmir came to Yasin and the Mudoori debacle took place in Yasin. The Mudooris were not only against the Mehtars but also against the Muslims of the region.
Once at Khalti Lake, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as boating, fishing, and camping. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including trout and mahseer, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to its natural beauty, Khalti Lake also has a rich cultural heritage. The surrounding villages are home to the Dardic people, who have their unique language and culture. Visitors can learn about their way of life and traditions by interacting with the locals.
Sports Festival on Frozen Khlati Lake
Every year, the frozen Khalti Lake in Gupis Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, becomes the site of a unique sports festival that draws participants and spectators from around the region.
The festival, which typically takes place in January or February, celebrates the winter season and the frozen lake that serves as its centerpiece. Visitors can participate in a variety of sports and activities, such as ice skating, ice hockey, ice fishing, and sled racing.
Ice skating is one of the most popular activities at the festival, with participants of all ages and skill levels taking to the frozen lake to show off their moves. Ice hockey is also a big draw, with teams from local villages competing against each other in friendly matches.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, ice fishing is a great way to enjoy the frozen lake. Visitors can try their luck at catching trout and other fish species that are abundant in the lake during the winter months.
One of the most exciting events at the festival is sled racing, where participants ride traditional wooden sleds down a steep hill that ends on the frozen lake. The races are open to anyone who wants to participate, and the winners are awarded prizes and recognition.
A Sports festival is organized every year on frozen Khalti Lake in Gupis Valley, Ghizer. Sports festivals are conducted and organized by the Tourism Department with the help of local organizations.
Tourist Attractions on Frozen Lake:
- Ice Hockey
- Ice Skating
- Football Matches
- Local & Cultural Dance Events
- and many more
Market or Shops are also set up which displays local handicrafts, organic fruits, and food and promotes local culture.
In addition to sports and activities, the festival also features food and craft vendors, live music and dance performances, and cultural exhibitions that showcase the rich heritage of the local communities.
The frozen Khalti Lake sports festival is not only a fun and exciting event for visitors but also an important cultural tradition for the people of the Gupis Valley. It brings together people from different villages and communities and celebrates the beauty and uniqueness of the winter season in this remote part of Pakistan.
As tourism in the area continues to grow, the frozen Khalti Lake sports festival is becoming an increasingly popular destination for adventure seekers and winter sports enthusiasts. Its natural beauty, cultural significance, and exciting activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of winter in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Best time to visit Khalti Lake
One of the best times to visit Khalti Lake is during the spring and summer months when the surrounding mountains are covered in colorful wildflowers. The weather is also mild and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Despite its beauty and popularity, Khalti Lake remains relatively unknown to many tourists. This is partly due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure. However, efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism in the area, which will not only benefit the local economy but also preserve the natural beauty of the lake for generations to come.
In conclusion, Khalti Lake is a true hidden gem in the Gupis Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan. Its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventure seeker. While the journey to get there may be challenging, the rewards are well worth it.
