The road to Paye Lake: some turns are enough to raise your hair
Siri Paye is a high mountain lake at an elevation of 3,025m (9,924ft) above sea level, located in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.
Is the road to Paye Lake dangerous?
The road to the summit is mostly unpaved, narrow, and steep. It is not easy, with some turns that are hair-raising. New drivers are strongly advised against driving up here, especially those unfamiliar with such terrain. A 4x4 vehicle is required.
How long is the road to Paye Lake?
The trail is pretty steep. Starting at Kiwai, at 1,502m above sea level, the ascent is 13.8 km (8.57 miles) long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 1,556 meters (5,105 feet). The average gradient is 11.2%, with some sections up to 15%. The more you travel up, the steeper and narrower the road gets.
Is the road to Paye Lake open?
Beware that you should not travel up here in harsh weather conditions like heavy rain or snowfall, as landslides and avalanches may occur at any time during such weather, making the area very risky. Heavy rainfall with some hail is also experienced often, in addition to hurricanes and thunder, surprising visitors and worsening the traffic situation. Monsoon winds bring heavy rains with occasional hailstorms. Unexpected thunderstorms and heavy rains keep the environment cool and sometimes create difficulties for visitors to move around. Warm clothes are recommended for nights due to low temperatures. Heavy snow covers the valley throughout the winter season.
Is Paye Lake worth it?
Set high in the Kaghan Valley, the area boasts scenic green mountains and snow-capped peaks, with a peaceful environment and natural beauty that is soul-soothing.
Pic: Ahmer Mansoor