Chitta Katha Lake is an alpine lake in Shounter Valley, part of the large Neelum Valley region in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The valley is like an unpolished gem because of its jaw-dropping scenery and a medley of wildlife. The lake sits 13,500 feet above sea level.
The name “Chitta Katha” means “White Stream.” It refers to the stream flowing from Mount Harri Parbat. Devotees associate this site of Hindu reverence with Lord Shiva and view it as the deity's adobe.
Are you excited to know more about this beautiful valley in depth? Then stick with us as we enter on the trek to Chitta Katha Lake and unearth its unique charm and remarkable views.
Getting to the Chitta Katha Lake Trek
Reaching Chitta Katha Lake involves more than just a hike. Jump in with both feet in the breathtaking natural beauty of Pakistan's mountainous zones for a standout experience. To get to Chitta Katha Lake from Islamabad, take this path;
Islamabad to Kel
Your journey gets the ball rolling in the capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad. The distance to Kel, a lovely village in Neelum Valley, is around 150 km (about 93 miles). Travel through Muzaffarabad and Keran takes around 7-8 hours by road. It all leans on road status and traffic.
Kel to Domail Bala
From Kel, you will take a jeep track to Domail Bala. This track is 20 km (12.4 miles) long and usually requires 2 hours to cross by jeep.
Hiking Distance And Duration
Once you arrive at Domail Bala, the real adventure begins! The hike to Chitta Katha Lake is about 5 km (around 3.1 miles). It usually takes between 5 to 8 hours, depending on your;
Pace
Fitness level
The trail conditions
Best Time to Visit Chitta Katha Lake
The high point for visiting Chitta Katha Lake is from July to October. The trekking season is during these months when the weather is favorable. August is an excellent time to come as the wildflowers bloom around the lake. Yet, July and August can bring more rain and difficulties due to the monsoon season.
Tourists need to be prepared and primed for rain and mud while hiking. The lake was girdled by glaciers and lofted at 4,090 m (13,420 ft). Visitors can have a terrific time backpacking under the night's canopy. They can also admire the magnificent views of the lake and the sharp mountains in the distance.
Difficulty Level at Chitta Katha Lake Trek
Chitta Katha Lake is a herculean trek with difficulty levels ranging from moderate to difficult. Hikers need to be fit as a fiddle for the trek, which includes steep climbs and descents.
You hit the trail with a 20-km jeep ride from Kep to Upper Domail and a 5-km walk through a beautiful green area. Yet, the real challenge begins with the steep ascent towards the lake. The trail gains 1,260 m in elevation over a short distance of 8.6 km. Consequently, the average gradient is 9°. The most grueling part is the ascent after the waterfall. Hikers need to climb 200 meters ASAP in just 0.5 km.
At this point, breathing becomes an uphill battle as the oxygen levels decrease significantly. The rough terrain can be physically and mentally exhausting to the bone. The high altitude increases the difficulty. Despite the challenges, Chitta Katha Lake is a popular destination for adventure seekers. Its stunning beauty makes it highly sought after.
Attractions And Activities at Chitta Katha Lake
Chitta Katha Lake, Shounter Valley, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and lush meadows. Such scenery makes it a prime trekking destination. Visitors can enjoy activities such as;
Hiking to the lake
Camping
Exploring local villages
Whereas the nearby attractions include the stunning Shounter Waterfall and Chamach Lake. These sites enhance the natural beauty of the area.
Unique Aspects of Chitta Katha Lake
Chitta Katha Lake is notable for the following unique aspects:
The lake in Azad Kashmir is 13,500 feet (4,100 meters) high, making it the highest lake in the zone.
The lake's clear waters illustrate the nearby glaciers, making a visual delight.
Mount Harri Parbat, the lake's stream source, is religiously important to Hindus. They regard it as an eternal sanctuary of Lord Shiva. The mountain is often referred to as “The Kailash.”
Conclusion
The Chitta Katha Lake in Azad Kashmir is a thrill-seeker's paradise. Natural lovers can enjoy a one-of-a-kind and memorable experience. You can't miss the trek because of its amazing views and a mountain lake. You can go camping and fully immerse yourself in nature. Such features are perfect for people looking for a thrill of a lifetime. The hike may be challenging, with a moderate to difficult level, but it's a labor of love that pays off. The fantastic views and cultural significance of the lake make the journey rewarding. Come in the peak season (July to September) to see colorful wildflowers or visit at another time. The Chitta Katha Lake Trek will make a lasting impact. The stunning scenery and thrilling experience will truly touch your soul. The souvenirs from this stroll haunt your mind even after you get home. Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQs
How long is the climb to Chitta Katha Lake?
The ramble to Chitta Katha Lake is approximately 8.6 km (5.4 miles) all the way and normally takes 8 hours to reach. The trail is a tough climb of 1,260 meters (4,133 feet), which many find difficult to tackle.
How do I get to Chitta Katha Lake?
To get the Chitta Katha Lake, you can follow these steps;
Drive from Islamabad to Kel, the trek's base camp. The journey takes 6-7 hours via Muzaffarabad and Keran.
Take a 20 km jeep ride from Kel to Upper Domail in the Shounter Valley. This jeep track takes around 2-3 hours.
Start the hiking trek from Upper Domail. The trail passes through a 5 km lush green patch before reaching Dak-1 and Dak-2 campsites.
It will take 5-6 hours to ramble from Dak-2 to Chitta Katha Lake, which is 4,100 m (13,500 ft) high.
The excursion from end to end is about 8.6 km (5.4 miles) in length and has a total climb of 1,260 meters.
What is the meaning of Chitta Katha?
Chitta Katha means “White Stream” in the local dialect of the Shounter Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The name derives from the Chitta Katha Stream, which flows from Mount Harri Parbat.
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