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Satpara Lake

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Lake
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Satpara Lake (Pakistan)

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Satpara Lake is a natural lake located near Skardu in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, sitting at an elevation of 2,636 meters. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Karakoram Range, the lake is famed for its deep blue, crystal-clear waters. It is primarily fed by the melting snow from the Deosai Plateau, which flows into the lake via the Satpara Stream. A small, scenic island sits in the middle of the lake, accessible only by boat. Historically and economically, the lake is of vital importance as it serves as the primary water source for Skardu town. Between 2003 and 2011, the construction of the Satpara Dam expanded the lake's capacity to enhance hydroelectric power generation and irrigation for the surrounding area. The lake environment has excellent opportunities for trout fishing and boating, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The serene atmosphere and the reflection of the surrounding mountains on its surface make it one of the most photogenic spots in the Baltistan Valley.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-16-14-9-32610105-1-7-13
Rain mm455656553534364126152821

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Visitors usually reach this pretty high-altitude lake by taking a short, scenic drive from the nearby city of Skardu. The road is generally paved and accessible by most standard vehicles, making it an extremely popular and convenient day trip for travelers in the region.
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Best season
The most favorable time for a visit is typically during the summer and early autumn months when the weather is clear and the mountain passes are open. In winter, the lake often freezes completely over and the surrounding roads can become treacherous due to heavy localized snowfall.
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Terrain & paths
The immediate surroundings of the lake consist of rocky mountain slopes, sparse vegetation, and relatively flat areas near the shoreline itself. Walking around the main scenic viewpoints is generally easy, but hiking further up the rough slopes requires navigating loose stones.
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What to bring
Due to the high altitude, it is highly recommended to bring layered warm clothing, even during the bright summer months, along with strong sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes and a good camera are also generally essential for capturing the impressive reflections on the bright blue water.
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Parking
There are usually informal but ample parking spaces available near the main viewing areas and local tea stalls overlooking the scenic lake. It is generally very straightforward to find a convenient spot for your vehicle just a short and easy walk away from the water's edge.
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Safety
Visitors should be cautious of mild altitude sickness if they have just arrived in the mountainous region and should avoid drinking untreated water directly from the lake. The rocky edges can sometimes be unstable, so it is best to maintain a safe distance from any steep drop-offs.
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Time needed
A standard visit to admire the wide-open scenery, take photographs, and perhaps enjoy a peaceful local boat ride typically lasts about one to two hours. However, those who wish to picnic or hike around the surrounding rocky hills often extend their stay to a full morning or afternoon.

Geography

Coordinates
35.23330, 75.63330

Facts

  • The lake is situated at an elevation of 2,636 meters above sea level.
  • It is located approximately 9 kilometers from the town of Skardu.
  • The Satpara Dam was officially completed and commissioned in 2011.
  • The lake is a primary habitat for rainbow trout in the region.
  • The central island is a signature landmark for local photography.
  • Following the dam construction, the lake covers about 4.5 km².

Explore nearby

Notable places around

SkarduSkardu3 km · SEExplore →
Shigar ValleyShigar Valley9 km · NEExplore →
Shangrila (Lower Kachura Lake)Shangrila (Lower Kachura Lake)21 km · SExplore →
Deosai National ParkDeosai National Park25 km · SExplore →
Sheosar LakeSheosar Lake43 km · SExplore →
SonamargSonamarg46 km · SWExplore →
PahalgamPahalgam49 km · SWExplore →
Khunjerab National ParkKhunjerab National Park49 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Satpara Lake (4)

City Park Sakardu📍 landmark

A landscaped green space in Skardu offering a quiet retreat with views of the surrounding arid mountain peaks.

Manthal Buddha Rock📍 landmark

A historic granite boulder featuring a well-preserved 9th-century relief carving of a meditating Buddha.

🕒 24/7

City Viewpoint🌿 nature

A vantage point offering a wide panorama over the Skardu valley and the nearby Satpara Lake.

Manthal Mosque📍 landmark

A small local mosque in Manthal village located in close proximity to the historic Buddha Rock.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How far is Satpara Lake from Skardu?
It is just a short, about 20-minute drive from Skardu.
Can one boat there?
Yes, row boats are available for tourists.
Are there fishing opportunities?
Fishing is partially possible with a permit.
Is the water safe for human consumption?
No, the water should not be consumed without boiling.
How is the weather there?
It is a mountain region, weather can change quickly.
Satpara Lake: where is it located?
Satpara Lake is located in Pakistan.
Satpara Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include City Park Sakardu, Manthal Buddha Rock, City Viewpoint.
Satpara Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Satpara Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Satpara Lake is a natural lake located near Skardu in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, sitting at an elevation of 2,636 meters.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nature

Sheosar Lake — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Sheosar Lake
A scenic lake located in Deosai National Park, known for its deep blue water and surrounding meadows.
Attabad Lake — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Attabad Lake
A lake in the Hunza Valley that was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide dammed the Hunza River.

More places

Shigar Valley — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Shigar Valley
The Shigar Valley is the gateway to the gigantic peaks of the Karakoram in Baltistan.
Deosai National Park — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Deosai National Park
A high-altitude plateau known as the 'Land of Giants', serving as a habitat for the Himalayan brown bear.
Khunjerab National Park — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Khunjerab National Park
One of the highest altitude national parks in the world, located on the border with China and a habitat for the Marco Polo sheep.
🗺️
Nangma Valley
A remote and pristine valley near Skardu, famous for its dramatic rock walls and climbing opportunities.
Khaplu Valley — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Khaplu Valley
The broad Khaplu Valley, also known as Ghangche, is picturesquely situated on the Shyok River in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Masherbrum — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Masherbrum
Masherbrum (formerly known as K1) is a dominant 7,821-meter-high mountain in the Karakoram.
Spantik — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Spantik
Spantik, often referred to as the 'Golden Peak', is a 7,027-meter-high mountain in the Rakaposhi massif.
Astore Valley — Satpara Lake (Pakistan)
Astore Valley
The Astore Valley separates the peaks of the western Himalayas from those of the Karakoram.