Hunza

Title:
Shounter Lake Azad Kashmir | Travel Guide, Things to Do & How to Reach

Description:
Discover Shounter Lake (Spoon Lake) in Azad Kashmir — a glacial alpine lake at 3,100 m in Neelum Valley. Get travel tips, best time to visit, trekking details, nearby attractions, and FAQs.


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Introduction to Shounter Lake

Shounter Lake (also known as Spoon Lake) is a glacial alpine lake nestled in the enchanting Shounter Valley, a sub-valley within Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan.  Sitting at an elevation of approximately 3,100 meters (≈ 10,200 ft) above sea level, the lake is fed by glacial melt, surrounded by snow-clad peaks, and carpeted with lush meadows and wildflowers during summer.

Sometimes dubbed the “Pearl of Shounter Valley,” this serene lake is a hidden gem for nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, and adventurers seeking off-beat destinations in Pakistan.


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Why Visit Shounter Lake? (Key Attractions & Highlights)

1. Pristine Natural Beauty
The clear turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountains and verdant meadows, creating an almost mirror-like surface on calm days.  The lakeshore is often decorated with wildflowers, adding colorful accents to the green and white surroundings.


2. Tranquility & Seclusion
Unlike some of the more famous lakes in Pakistan, Shounter Lake sees fewer visitors, making it ideal for solitude, meditation, and escaping the chaos of city life.


3. Adventure and Trekking
To reach the lake, one must undertake a jeepeed journey followed by trekking through rugged terrain, offering scenic views and a dose of adventure.


4. Flora & Fauna
You may encounter wildflowers such as Iris hookeriana and glimpses of alpine birds and small fauna in the surroundings.


5. Seasonal Access
The lake is typically accessible from May to August, when snow has melted and the jeep track is passable.  Outside this window, heavy snow and impassable roads make it extremely difficult to reach.




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How to Reach Shounter Lake

Starting Point: Kel, Neelum Valley

Most travelers begin their journey from Kel, a village in Neelum Valley. From Kel, a rough jeep track leads toward Shounter Valley.

Jeep Ride + Trek

The jeep ride covers the accessible dirt roads until the track becomes too rough. From there, a trek begins. The trail is moderately difficult and demands physical fitness, especially given the altitude and changing terrain.

Best Time of Year

Ideally, plan your trip between May and August, when roads are clear and weather is favorable.

Permits & Local Guides

Always check with local authorities or tour operators for necessary permits. Hiring a local guide is recommended for safety, navigation, and local insights.


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Suggested Itinerary & Tips

Day Activities

Day 1 Travel from Islamabad (or your origin) to Neelum Valley / Kel
Day 2 Jeep ride toward Shounter Valley, begin trek, reach camp near lake
Day 3 Explore lake area, relax, nature walks, photography
Day 4 Trek back to jeep point, return to Kel / onward destination


Tips & Recommendations:

Pack high-altitude gear including warm clothing, waterproof layers, and sturdy trekking shoes.

Carry adequate food, water, first aid, and camping gear.

Camp near the lakeshore to enjoy starry nights and sunrise views.

Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

Travel light but carry essentials like a rain cover, headlamp, and spare batteries.



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Nearby Attractions & Complementary Stops

Chitta Katha Lake: Another alpine lake in Shounter Valley, at a higher altitude (≈ 13,500 ft) and regarded as sacred in Hindu tradition.

Shounter Pass: A high mountain pass (~ 4,420 m) connecting Neelum Valley with Astore (Gilgit-Baltistan) in favorable conditions.

Other Lakes & Valleys: The Shounter region encompasses several smaller lakes and scenic valleys worth exploring.



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Challenges & Precautions

Weather volatility: Mountain weather can change rapidly — plan contingencies.

Road & track conditions: The jeep track is rough and may be damaged; only experienced drivers should attempt it.

Altitude & health: Acclimatization is essential — carry medications if necessary.

Limited facilities: There are little to no permanent lodgings near the lake; camping is primary option.

Safety & guidance: Going with a local guide is strongly advisable.



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Conclusion

Shounter Lake is a breathtaking, relatively unexplored alpine lake that offers pristine beauty, tranquility, and an adventurous trek in the heart of Azad Kashmir. With its snow-fed waters, floral meadows, and remote serenity, it is a compelling destination for travelers who crave nature off the beaten path. Whether you’re a trekker, photographer, or simply a seeker of quiet places, a journey to Shounter Lake promises memories that linger long after the trip ends.

Poetric views

Whispers of Shounter Lake

High in the arms of mountains tall,
Where glaciers sigh and waterfalls call,
A turquoise jewel in silence lies,
Reflecting dreams and cloud-brushed skies.

Shounter Lake, so calm, serene,
Wrapped in meadows, lush and green,
Snow-clad peaks its guardians stand,
A secret gem of Kashmir’s land.

The winds arrive with songs of pine,
The waters glow with silver shine,
Each ripple tells a tale untold,
Of timeless beauty, pure and bold.

Pilgrims of peace, adventurers true,
Find here a world both fresh and new.
In nature’s heart, no noise, no ache—
Just whispers soft of Shounter Lake.