Naran and Kaghan are popular tourist spots in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. They are in the Mansehra district.
The phrase “Naran Kaghan” is made up of two words. It comes from the fact that the Naran Valley and the Kaghan Valley are next to each other.
This Naran Kaghan travel guide will tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful place with lakes, mountains, and lots of greenery.
As tourism has grown in the area, it has become one of the most popular places to visit in Pakistan and further afield.
This travel guide will tell you when to go to Naran and Kaghan, where to go, what to bring, and what to do when you get there.
You’ll also find out about tour packages and travel tips that will make your trip to Naran Kaghan fun and easy.
Sounds fun, right? Let’s start.
Naran Kaghan Location
Geographically, Naran is a tourist town situated inside the greater Kaghan Valley at an altitude of 2,409 meters (7,904 ft). It is located at a distance of approximately 23 kilometers (14.3 miles) further towards the north of the mainland of Kaghan Valley.
Kaghan itself is located 99 km (61.6 miles) from Mansehra city at an elevation ranging between 650m (2,134 ft) and 4,170 m (13,690 ft).
Best Time to Visit Naran Kaghan
Snow often blocks roads in the Naran and Kaghan valleys in the winter. So, summer is the best time to visit the valley.
And May through September is the best time to go to Naran Kaghan. During this time, the weather is nice and the Naran Kaghan valley is at its best.
But it’s important to note that during this time, the number of tourists goes up a lot.
How Long Should You Stay In Naran?
From what we’ve seen, three days is enough time to see the main sights in and around Naran, but you can stay longer if you want to explore more of the natural gems in the area at your own pace.
After you visit Naran, you can continue your trip to other beautiful places in northern Pakistan, such as Gilgit-Baltistan or the Swat Valley.
How To Get To Naran Kaghan?
For independent travellers, the best way to get to Naran is to hire a private driver in another city. In Islamabad, there are a lot of them near bus stops and other big places.
Find someone who knows how to drive on the dangerous roads in the Karakoram Mountains. NEVER try to drive yourself, unless you are a superhuman who has driven many times on dangerous mountain passes.
Also, make sure to negotiate the price well, especially if you’re from out of town because they always overcharged foreigners.
If you’re not the kind of person who can bargain for hours, you might want to go to Naran as part of a group tour. There are a lot of them at travel agencies near you, and they are easy to find.
The only bad thing about group tours is that you won’t have as much freedom to explore the area the way you want to.
You can also take a bus from any of Pakistan’s major cities for a good price, but I don’t recommend this because you won’t be able to stop at any of the beautiful places along the way, and once you get to Naran, you’ll have to find new ways to get around.
Things to Do and See in Naran Kaghan
When you get to Naran, you can check into your hotel and then go see what the town has to offer. Naran has a lot of free activities, and walking is the best way to see the town. Walk from the main market through the small streets.
Make new Friends
People in Naran and the areas around it are very kind and welcoming. You will be surprised at how quickly you make friends here.
Shopping in the Bazaar
You can find the ideal gifts for your loved ones back home at the Naran Bazaar. From locally created jams to hand-knit sweaters, there are numerous options available. There, you must try the dry fruits.
Hiking In Naran Kaghan
There are numerous hiking opportunities in Naran. Depending on your degree of fitness, there are a lot of both simple and difficult hikes. Best of all, most of them are free!
Visit the Local Waterfalls
Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Pakistan are in Naran. So be sure to go at least once while you’re there. You can always ask a local of Naran for directions; they will be happy to help.
Ride by Horse and Discover the Unknowns
Another great way to enjoy the Naran Kaghan tour is horse riding. Be careful, as some of the trails can be pretty treacherous. But don’t worry because there will always be a Naran Kaghan tourist guide with you.
Enjoy Rafting in River Kunhar in Naran Kaghan
Horseback riding is a fantastic additional way to enjoy the Naran Kaghan tour. Some of the trails can be rather dangerous, so use caution. You will always have a Naran Kaghan tour guide with you, so don’t worry.
Dive into the World of Local Food & Specialties
Naran and Kaghan have access to a variety of foods that are typical in the rest of Pakistan. It includes roasts, biryani, mutton karahi, and chicken.
But the tasty trout fish is a specialty of the Narans. Therefore, you must give it a try! Trout fish is a common dish in Naran eateries.
Essential Things to Know & Tips to Follow in Naran Kaghan Tour
One of Pakistan’s most picturesque locations in Naran Kaghan. Numerous people visit the Naran region each year to take in the tranquility and beautiful splendor.
But if you break the regulations, any tour can take advantage of you.
Therefore, consider this useful advice when going on a Naran Kaghan tour:
- Check the weather and forecast before traveling.
- Pack light but don’t forget the essentials, like warm clothes.
- Carry cash as there are limited ATMs in Naran Kaghan.
- Avoid traveling during the peak season (July and August) and winter.
- Go around and check the pricing from various vendors when shopping.
- Try to travel to a group to avoid any mishaps.
- Don’t take your car, as the Naran Kaghan roads are treacherous.
- Call the police on 091-9212222 and have other important numbers on hand.
To ensure you have a wonderful visit to Naran Kaghan, let me give a few ideas you should think about before or while traveling there.
Temperature and Weather in Naran Kaghan
You must bring warm clothing whether you visit Naran and Kaghan in the summer or the winter. In most seasons, Naran’s temperature falls into the 20s.
In addition, you might have summer rain and winter snowfall. Take a lip balm, a moisturizing lotion, and a face spray.
3.9 °C or 39.0 °F is the typical yearly temperature of Kaghan Valley.
Health and Safety Issues
Tourists are safe in Naran Kaghan, but you still need to exercise caution. When you go out, dress modestly and go with a male companion. Wear warm clothing and take safeguards against mosquitoes for your health.
Road Conditions in Naran Kaghan
The Naran Kaghan roads are dangerous, so it is better to use the services of a professional driver. You can also use the jeeps and coaches provided by tour operators or independent drivers.
If you are going for a hike, ensure that someone knows your whereabouts.
Internet in Naran Kaghan
Poor connection affects the entirety of northern Pakistan, not only Naran Kaghan. There is WiFi available in certain hotels, although the connection is frequently unreliable.
