Adventure and beauty meet at Babusar Top
PESHAWAR:
The dramatic interplay of sunshine and clouds, accompanied by light to erratic rainfall, creates a breathtaking spectacle at Babusar Top – the historic mountain pass perched high in the upper Kaghan Valley of Mansehra district.
Every summer, and especially during Eid holidays, this majestic destination draws thousands of tourists from across Pakistan. The journey from Naran to Babusar Top leaves lasting impressions with its pristine lakes, verdant meadows, rolling green hills, and winding mountain roads.
Situated at an awe-inspiring altitude of 13,691 feet, Babusar Top serves as a natural bridge between Upper Kaghan and Naran in Mansehra and Chilas in Gilgit-Baltistan. “I’ve travelled extensively within Pakistan and abroad, but nothing compares to the natural grandeur of Babusar. It’s a haven for thrill and adventure,” said Muhammad Imran, a 40-year-old architect from the C&W Department in Peshawar.
Imran recounted his experience of sipping glacier-chilled drinks while listening to the patriotic anthem “Dil Dil Pakistan” during his drive to the top. The Pakistani flag fluttering atop the pass serves as a proud welcome to thousands of tourists and adventure seekers.
From the enchanting waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes to the Dodara forest and chirping birds echoing through the valleys, the entire stretch from Kaghan-Naran to Babusar Top is a nature lover’s paradise. Imran shared highlights from his journey, which included savouring Chapli Kababs and brown trout in the cool climate of Lower Naran and visiting the legendary Lake Saiful Malook, tied to folklore about the Persian prince Saiful Malook and the fairy princess Badri Jamala.
“During our jeep trip from Naran to Babusar, we hiked toward Ansu Lake and witnessed the icy cascades of Sooch waterfall – an unforgettable experience,” he added. Along the route, captivating stops include the glacial Lulusar Lake, nestled at 11,190 feet amidst snow-covered peaks and tranquil blue waters. Small roadside shops in Bhattal town offer local specialties like Palosa and Ber honey, woolen shawls, caps, and naturally cooled drinks.
Sher Zaman, a local honey vendor, highlighted the popularity of Palosa and Ber honeysourced from Karak and Lachi (Kohat)among tourists. He noted that these varieties are even exported to Gulf countries due to their purity.
However, the region’s ecological charm faces serious threats from deforestation, melting glaciers, unchecked construction, and deteriorating roadsall made worse by climate change and illegal logging.
Haji Ehsanullah Khan, a Dubai-based Pakistani transporter visiting the pass, praised Babusar for its unmatched serenity and panoramic views. “Pakistan has many scenic mountain passes, but Babusar stands out for its commanding views of the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.”
The final stretch to Babusar involves a steep, winding ascent, offering panoramic views of lush valleys, icy waterfalls, and distant peaks. Tourists, especially families, soak in the natural beauty but also caution new visitors to drive carefully, especially during snowfall, and to use tire chains on slippery roads.
Renowned Irish adventure cyclist and author Dervla Murphy, in her book Two Wheels Over Nine Glaciers, fondly recalled her 1960s cycling expedition through Babusar, praising the locals’ hospitality and the region’s serene lakes and mountains. Historians note that Babusar Top may have originally been called Babur Top, believed to be named after the Mughal emperor Babur who passed through this area in the early 16th century.
Professor Muhammad Naeem Khattak stressed the immense economic potential of tourism in Pakistan’s northern areas. “We must invest in infrastructure and use digital tools to promote domestic tourism. Social media can be a powerful tool to highlight Pakistan’s natural treasures to the world.”