Introduction
Ansoo Lake got its name from the Urdu word “Ansoo” which means “Teardrop”. The name perfectly reflects the lake’s shape. It is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Kaghan Valley in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The peak is closer to Malika-e-Parbat which is the highest peak in Kaghan Valley.
History of Ansoo Lake Kaghan Valley
The history of itself is quite short. It was discovered in 1993 by Pakistan Air Force pilots flying in the area. But the area where this lake is located has a rich history. Moreover, The region of Kaghan Valley was discovered in the 19th century by the British Raj. From that day till today, the region faced multiple changes including the independence of Pakistan.
Ansoo Lake Track
There are foremost routes for hiking to it.
Through Saiful Muluk Lake
The trek takes anywhere from seven to nine hours to complete. The journey is divided into two segments. The first segment takes you from the valley to Malika Parbat, and the second segment leads from Malika Parbat’s base camp to itself. Moreover, Shogran Valley is 30 km away from there.
Through Village Mahandri
Mahandri is a village where you can take a local jeep to Mansoor village. From Mansoor village, a seven-hour trek through Dher Meadows will lead you to it.
Ansoo Lake Depth
The exact depth of it is not known due to seasonal variations but an average depth is 40 meters (130 feet).
Altitude of Ansoo Lake
The altitude is 4,245 meters (13,927 feet) above sea level. This makes it one of the highest lakes in the Himalayas. Shinkiari Mansehra is 50 Km away from here.
Ansoo Lake Base Camp
Base Camp is a temporary campsite established by trekkers who are undertaking the trek to reach it. In addition, It is not something fixed or permanent. Due to the high altitude and harsh weather conditions, a permanent base camp isn’t feasible.
Ansoo Lake Weather
The harsh and cold weather conditions make summer the only suitable time to trek, with temperatures ranging from chilly to cool and nights dipping below freezing. Even then, unpredictable rain, snow, and high-altitude challenges require proper gear and acclimatization.
Ansoo Lake in Winter
It transforms into a winter wonderland from December to March. While its beauty remains undeniable, the lake becomes inaccessible due to extreme weather. The harsh conditions make trekking extremely dangerous, so visitors must wait for the summer months to experience the magic of Ansoo Lake.
Ansoo Lake Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/eMYfJmkxE1tUqbTS8
Distances From Different Places
- Saif ul Malook to Ansoo Lake.
- The most common route to reach there from Saiful Muluk is a hiking trek. There is no straightforward road track. The estimated distance for this trek is around 14 to 16 kilometers and takes a few hours to reach.
- Ansoo Lake distance from Islamabad.
- There is no direct road route from Islamabad. The road leads to Naran and from Naran, the hiking trail starts and leads to it. The approximate distance between Naran and Islamabad is 270 kilometers. It takes 7-8 hours by car to reach Naran and a 7-8 hour hike to reach there.
- Ansoo Lake distance from Mahandri Village.
- The distance from Mahandri Village is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers). This route involves a jeep ride followed by a trek. The jeep will take you to Mansoor village from here a 7-8 hour trek.
Conclusion
The beauty of it is undeniable. Summer offers the only window for trekking, with even then bringing chilly days and freezing nights. In addition, high altitudes and unpredictable weather necessitate proper gear to ensure your safety. For those who dare to undertake the challenge, the reward is a glimpse into a breathtaking lake and an unforgettable experience.
