Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Ansoo Lake: A Drop of Tears in
the Heart of Mountains

Ansoo Lake, a captivating natural wonder, sits hidden among Pakistan’s towering peaks of the Himalayas.

Shaped like a tear, this breathtaking lake is often called Ansoo Jheel, which translates to Tear Lake in English.

Ansoo Lake’s beauty is so mesmerizing that it leaves visitors in awe of the sheer brilliance of nature.
Nestled in the lap of mountains, it welcomes and challenges trekkers and tourists from across the world who come to see the beautiful tear-drop shape of the island.

Ansoo Lake History

Ansoo Lake in Winter

Ansoo Lake is not just a pretty sight but also a fascinating history.

It was not until 1999, when Pakistani Air Force pilots accidentally stumbled upon the lake, that the lake became known.

It earned its unique name after these pilots were the first to see the lake’s formation from the air like a tear. The lake is approximately 16,492 feet (5,027 meters) above sea level and has become a major attraction for trekkers and hikers.

Despite its remote location and challenging terrain, the allure of Ansoo Jheel continues to pull adventurers toward it, making it a symbol of perseverance and natural wonder.

Depth of Ansoo Lake

The depth of Ansoo Lake is still a mystery as it has yet to be officially measured.

However, many believe it to be shallow, with clear, icy waters that reflect the surrounding snow-covered peaks like a mirror.

The lake appears serene yet remote, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity that touches the heart of every visitor.

Ansoo Lake Weather and Location

Ansoo Lake’s location makes it a challenging yet rewarding destination.

Nestled deep in the Kaghan Valley, this stunning lake is located near the famous Saif ul Malook Lake, about 14 kilometres away.

The harsh mountainous climate and high altitude contribute to its mystique.

The weather at Ansoo Lake is unpredictable and can change rapidly. Summer ranges from June to September, and humidity is comparatively low. However, this is a rather hot season, and the night temperature can drop relatively low.


During winter, from October to May, the entire area around the lake is covered with ice and snow, which makes movement on the lake extremely difficult for the folks of the region.

Adventurers must be well-prepared for any weather to visit Ansoo Lake. They include wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against scorching sun, fog, rain, and sharp temperature differences.

Accommodation: warm clothes, good trekking shoes, and raincoats. The weather is very volatile, which is a bonus considering the beautiful test of willpower when struggling to the lake.

Best Time to Visit Ansoo Lake

Considering the weather conditions and accessibility, the best time to visit Ansoo Lake is during the summer months, from mid-June to early September.

The snow typically melted at that time, ‘exhibiting the vivid green surroundings and the charming tear-like pond in its prime.

Trekking is slightly easier this season because the trails are less obscured, and the weather is moderate compared to other seasons. The clear sky also gives one a splendid view of the nearby mountains.

Nevertheless, for these months, the climate is quite changeable. Thus, it is possible to be prepared for changing weather conditions and use forecast information.

How to Approach the Ansoo Lake?

Ansoo Lake Routes
Reaching Ansoo Lake is a challenging feat. There are two major routes to the lake: trekking and an adventurous attitude.

Via Saif ul Malook

The best and most used trail to Ansoo Lake is through Saif ul Malook, another wonderful lake around Naran.

But after Saif ul Malook, it turns into a tough track across ice glaciers and sharp rocks hillocks. This trail stretches for 14 kilometres and takes 6 to 9 hours, depending on the hiker’s speed and weather conditions.

But the results afterwards make the path all worthwhile to follow.

Ansoo Jheel is a pristine natural place closed by mountains, which can be reached by overcoming many obstacles. Approaching the lake, great meadows and views have to be seen walking on various trails are available for hikers.

Via Village Mahandri

The other track heads towards the Ansoo Lake are from Mahandri village.

While this method gets a few visits, it is still cute. Trekkers start with the small village of Manoor and proceed to Ansoo Lake.

This allows for a more solitary experience with few people on the trail, making the experience much more intimate with nature.

Though it takes more time than the Saif-ul-Malook route, this trek is considered easier from a terrace perspective.

Any endeavour on either path presupposes preparedness and experience; a companion is needed to avoid getting lost.

The Myth of Ansoo Lake

Ansoo Lake is a lovely natural spectacle today and is associated with myths and legends.

The most common storey people attach to this lake is one of love that has stood the test of generations among families.

Romantic Story of Ansoo Jheel

There is a story about a prince who fell in love with a fairy living in a given territory.

The prince was in love, as was the fairy, but she never reciprocated with the prince because she belonged to a different world. Moved to the depths of the sadness, the prince cried for days and nights, creating the world-famous tear-shaped Ansoo Jheel.

Some consider it a lake of love and other unguessable desires. The shape of the lake is torn, and from some other sources, it can be understood that the shape of the lake means the prince is eternally sad.

This story gives Ansoo Lake a haunting yet romantic charm that attracts visitors seeking more than just physical beauty but also a connection to the land’s folklore.

Distance to Ansoo Lake from Major Cities

Ansoo jheel Romantic Story
Ansoo Lake is located in a remote part of northern Pakistan, and reaching it requires a multi-stage journey, often starting from major cities like Islamabad.

The distance from Islamabad to Naran, the gateway to Ansoo Lake, is approximately 270 kilometres and takes 7 to 8 hours by car.

From there, trekkers must proceed to Saif-ul-Malook Lake, where the trek to Ansoo Lake begins.

If one is coming from Lahore, the distance takes approximately 540 kilometres, and it takes 10 to 12 hours to get to Naran.

The road is tiring but beautiful, one driving along the green valleys and up the hilly ranges to find some of the Pakistani terrains on the way.

Travel Tips for Visiting Ansoo Lake

Visiting Ansoo Lake is not for the faint of heart.

It can be an adventurous trip for those willing to rough it out and fight the extreme climates and alpine conditions to be found along the way, but it can be enjoyable.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to this hidden gem:
  • Physical Preparation
  • The trek to Ansoo Lake is demanding, with steep ascents and rocky terrain. The trail is rugged, so one should prepare physically for the trip through troubled terrain. Some people may consider hiking or cardiovascular exercise before the event; if so, the trekking can be managed easily.
  • Pack Smart
  • Ensure you carry warm clothing regardless of the season you plan to visit. As indicated by the latest weather information, such high altitudes invert weather conditions, and therefore, a backpacker has to be ready for rainfall, snow, and freezing temperatures. Also, many pack enough water and snacks to ensure you do not tire when undertaking the trek.
  • Hire a Local Guide
  • The path to Ansoo Lake is only sometimes well-marked, and it is easy to get lost, especially in foggy or rainy weather. Hiring a local guide is wiser than trampling on personal freedoms and taking unnecessary risks.
  • Start Early
  • The earlier one begins their trek, the better. Trekking is carried out during the morning as the weather is usually cold, with early morning allowing you to make the trek before evening. .
  • Respect Nature
  • Ansoo Lake is a pristine natural wonder, and it is essential to keep it that way. Smoking, spitting, leaving behind litter or feeding the wildlife on site should be discouraged during visitation.

Why Should Ansoo Lake be on Your Travel List?

Ansoo Lake is more than just a tourist destination; it is an experience of a lifetime.

Terrific views of natural sceneries, thrilling experiences, and myths make it a place of immense interest to those who like outdoor activities.

The journey to Ansoo Lake is about reaching the destination and the sense of accomplishment and awe that comes with it. For those who seek solitude, peace, and a deeper connection with nature, Ansoo Jheel offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Those untouched views, some drop-dead gorgeous legends, and that tranquillizing ambience will be with you long after you leave the lake.

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The Travel North

The Travel North is focused on capturing and presenting the magnificent scenery of the Northern Areas of Pakistan.